Bhubaneswar: Real estate developers and industry bodies as well as prospective homebuyers here have welcomed the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) decision to keep the repo rate unchanged at 5.25%, saying the move will ensure stability in home loan interest rates and help sustain homebuyers’ confidence at a time of global uncertainty.Industry experts said predictable equated monthly instalments (EMIs) are particularly crucial for mid-income buyers, whose purchasing decisions are highly sensitive to interest rate movements. The status quo, they added, comes as a relief amid escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia.Pushpender Singh, managing director of a major real estate group, said the RBI’s decision brings much-needed certainty to the sector. “Maintaining the repo rate ensures stability and predictability for the real estate market. For homebuyers, it sustains affordability and supports sentiment in an already improving market,” Singh said.Echoing similar views, Manik Malik, CEO of a real estate firm, said a stable interest rate supports long-term planning for both buyers and developers. “Predictability in borrowing costs aids investment decisions. Continued stability in interest rates can help sustain momentum in mid-housing segment,” he said.Prospective homebuyers say the policy pause has brought some reassurance. “We were worried about EMIs going up given the global situation. With rates unchanged, it gives us confidence to go ahead with our home purchase plans without the fear of sudden financial stress,” said Ankit Mishra, a 34-year-old IT professional in Patia.Industry body Credai termed the RBI’s approach as balanced and prudent. Credai president Shekhar G Patel said the decision assumes greater significance against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions and their ripple effects on inflation, supply chains and capital flows.“While there may be some near-term pressure on raw material prices due to supply chain disruptions, policy stability, combined with strong end-user demand, should enable the sector to maintain steady growth and continue contributing meaningfully to the economy,” Patel said.
