Malaysians Still Aspiring to Own Homes, PropertyGuru and iProperty Study Finds

Categories: Press Releases (developers and more)

Malaysians Still Aspiring to Own Homes, PropertyGuru and iProperty Study Finds

The H1 2026 Consumer Sentiment Study reveals strong homeownership demand, rising sustainability awareness, and evolving housing priorities among Malaysians.

Homeownership aspirations remain strong among Malaysians, with 56% planning to purchase a property within the next two years, according to the H1 2026 Consumer Sentiment Study, PropertyGuru and iProperty’s latest nationwide survey.

Malaysia remains a nation of homeowners, with a significant portion of the population already owning property. Homeownership is most common among those aged 40 and above, married individuals with children, and those in the mid-to higher-income segments, reflecting how property ownership often coincides with key life stages and long-term financial stability.

Owning a home represents stability and family security, with many adopting a “buy-and-hold” mindset where homes are preserved and passed down across generations.

The study also highlights continued interest among potential first-time buyers. Among Malaysians who do not yet own property, more than half say securing their first home remains a key life milestone.

Homes Designed for the Way Malaysians Live

Living arrangements also reflect the strong role of family in Malaysian households. Many Malaysians surveyed share their homes with close family members, including spouses, parents, and children, highlighting the prevalence of multi-generational living arrangements.

These living patterns influence demand for homes that offer adaptable spaces and long-term flexibility for growing families. When selecting a property, Malaysians prioritise location, safety, and access to infrastructure and amenities, highlighting the importance of convenience and quality of life.

Sustainability Emerging as a Key Housing Priority

Sustainability is emerging as a major factor in homebuying decisions, with 9 in 10 Malaysians saying they are open to paying more for homes with sustainable features.

Nearly 4 in 5 Malaysians also consider climate-related risks such as flooding or landslides when choosing a home.

Energy-efficient appliances, solar panels, water conservation features, and green spaces were among the most influential sustainability features cited by respondents.

These expectations are increasingly reflected across the property industry. At the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards, sustainability is evaluated as a compulsory criterion across award categories, with dedicated ESG awards recognising developers that demonstrate long-term commitment to responsible and sustainable development.

Guiding Malaysians Through the Property Journey

Vic Sithasanan, Managing Director, Malaysia, PropertyGuru & iProperty, said the findings highlight Malaysians’ enduring confidence in property ownership.

“Owning a home continues to represent stability, security, and the foundation of family life for many Malaysians. What we are seeing today is a new generation of property seekers who are increasingly informed and intentional about their housing decisions.”

Trust and transparency remain critical factors in property decisions, with Malaysians indicating that clear images, detailed descriptions, and accurate property information significantly increase confidence when evaluating property listings online.

“Our mission at PropertyGuru and iProperty is to guide Malaysians through every step of their property journey with trusted insights, transparency, and the digital tools they need to make confident decisions,” added Sithasanan, at the company’s first media and creators Raya Open House at the Kuala Lumpur office.

Through the platforms, PropertyGuru and iProperty continue to empower Malaysians with data-driven insights, verified property information, and tools that help seekers navigate an evolving property market.