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“A PropertyGuru and iProperty survey shows 56% of Malaysians plan to buy homes within two years, with sustainability and location among top buying priorities.”
Kuala Lumpur, 6th April 2026, 12.00pm – Homeownership continues to be a key aspiration among Malaysians, with more than half planning to purchase residential property within the next two years, according to a new consumer sentiment survey.
The H1 2026 Consumer Sentiment Study released by PropertyGuru and iProperty Malaysia found that 56% of respondents intend to buy a home, signalling resilient demand despite evolving buyer expectations and market conditions.
Homeownership linked to financial stability and life stages
The study found that property ownership remains highest among Malaysians aged 40 and above, married individuals with children, and those in middle- to higher-income brackets. This reflects how homeownership continues to be closely associated with financial readiness and family planning.
For many Malaysians, owning property still represents long-term stability and wealth preservation, with the traditional buy-and-hold strategy remaining common. Homes are often retained as family assets and passed down across generations.
At the same time, demand from first-time buyers remains strong. Among respondents who do not currently own property, more than half identified purchasing their first home as a major personal milestone.
Multi-generational living shaping housing demand
The report also highlighted the continued importance of family living arrangements in Malaysia, with many households comprising multiple generations including parents, spouses, and children.
This trend is influencing demand for homes that offer adaptable layouts and sufficient space to accommodate changing family needs over time.
Location, safety, and accessibility to infrastructure and essential amenities remain among the most important factors influencing purchasing decisions, reinforcing the importance of connectivity and lifestyle convenience in residential developments.
Sustainability becoming a major buying factor
Environmental considerations are also becoming increasingly influential in property decisions. The survey found that 90% of Malaysians are willing to pay a premium for homes with sustainable or green features.
Additionally, about 80% of respondents said they consider climate risks such as flooding and landslides when evaluating potential property purchases.
Among the most desirable features identified were:
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Solar energy systems
- Water conservation features
- Access to parks and green spaces
The growing emphasis on sustainability is also being reflected among developers, with ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) considerations gaining importance in new project developments.
Industry adapting to changing buyer expectations
Sustainability criteria are now incorporated into property industry benchmarks such as the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards, where ESG considerations have become part of project evaluation standards.
PropertyGuru and iProperty Malaysia Managing Director Vic Sithasanan said the findings demonstrate continued confidence in property ownership despite changing market dynamics.
“Homeownership continues to represent stability and long-term security for many Malaysians, particularly as a foundation for family life,” he said.
He added that today’s property buyers are becoming more informed and deliberate, relying on data, research, and digital tools before making purchasing decisions.
Trust and transparency key in digital property search
The study also highlighted the importance of transparency in online property platforms. Clear listing information, quality images, and accurate property details were found to significantly improve buyer confidence.
Vic noted that both PropertyGuru and iProperty aim to support buyers with verified listings, market data, and digital tools to help them navigate Malaysia’s evolving property landscape.
“Our focus is to help Malaysians make confident property decisions by providing trusted insights and transparent information throughout their home buying journey,” he said.
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