Alwarpet, Chennai

Chennai's residential market experienced the fastest growth in sales at 27% during H1 2026, according to a JLL report. This surge in demand, coupled with increased housing launches, indicates a robust real estate sector in the city, driven by factors like infrastructure development and IT sector growth.

A recent study, 'The State of Indian Streets 2026,' ranked Chennai fourth among major Indian cities for the quality and continuity of its footpaths. The study, which used AI to assess pedestrian infrastructure, found that only 13.9% of Chennai's roads have continuous, walkable footpaths.

The Greater Chennai Corporation has commenced work to upgrade 94 road junctions across the city. This initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion and improve urban mobility for commuters. The upgrades are expected to result in smoother traffic flow and reduced travel times.

The state government has amended the Indian Stamp Act to streamline apartment registrations. A nominal stamp duty of Rs 50,000 will now be applicable for the transfer of common areas to the association of apartment owners, replacing the earlier provision that burdened buyers collectively.

Central authorities have granted approval for the Chennai Airport to Kilambakkam metro rail project, a significant expansion of the city's rapid transit network. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) will be the implementing agency for this corridor, linking the international airport with the southern suburbs.

The Tamil Nadu Real Estate Regulatory Authority (TNRERA) has implemented new guidelines requiring promoters to maintain three separate bank accounts for each registered real estate project. This directive, effective from January 1, 2026, aims to enhance financial transparency, prevent fund diversion, and protect homebuyer interests by ensuring stricter monitoring of project funds.