Evolving Dynamics of Affordable Housing Finance: Navigating Growth and Challenges

Affordable housing financiers are predicted to experience a slowdown in the growth of their assets under management, dropping to 21% in FY26 from 23% in FY25, according to a recent report by domestic rating agency Crisil.

The report projects that asset growth may stabilize at 20-21% for the fiscal year 2026-27. Loans against property are also expected to see a tempered growth of 24-26%, down from 30%, as lenders navigate asset quality challenges in certain borrower categories, leading to higher credit costs.

Despite a slight dip in profitability, the affordable housing finance sector is set to grow by 18-19% in the coming years. This growth is buoyed by limited bank competition, increasing urbanization, and supportive government policies, although traditional housing finance companies are pivoting towards this segment due to a competitive prime lending market.