The H1 2026 Consumer Sentiment Study by PropertyGuru and iProperty found that 56% of respondents intend to buy a home soon, reflecting steady demand even as expectations around housing evolve.

Ownership remains most common among those aged 40 and above, married individuals with children, and middle- to higher-income groups, suggesting property ownership still aligns closely with life stages and financial stability.

For many, a home continues to symbolise security and continuity. The long-held “buy and hold” mindset persists, with properties often kept within families and passed down through generations.

At the same time, first-time buyers are firmly in the picture. Among Malaysians who do not yet own property, more than half see purchasing their first home as a key life milestone.

Family remains central to how Malaysians live. Many households include spouses, parents and children under one roof, reinforcing the prevalence of multi-generational living.

This shapes demand for homes that offer flexibility and can adapt to changing family needs. Buyers continue to prioritise location, safety, and access to infrastructure and amenities, underscoring the importance of convenience and quality of life.

Sustainability is also rising quickly on the list of priorities. Nine in 10 Malaysians said they are willing to pay more for homes with green features.

Nearly four in five respondents factor in climate risks such as flooding and landslides when choosing a property. Energy-efficient appliances, solar panels, water-saving systems and access to green spaces ranked among the most sought-after features.

These expectations are increasingly reflected across the industry.

At the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards, sustainability is now a compulsory criterion across all categories, with dedicated ESG awards recognising developers committed to responsible development.

PropertyGuru and iProperty Malaysia managing director Vic Sithasanan said the findings highlight Malaysians’ enduring confidence in homeownership.

“Owning a home continues to represent stability, security, and the foundation of family life for many Malaysians,” he said.

“What we are seeing today is a new generation of property seekers who are increasingly informed and intentional about their housing decisions.”

He added that trust and transparency remain crucial, with clear images, detailed descriptions and accurate information significantly boosting 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,” he said.

Through their platforms, both companies aim to equip Malaysians with data-driven insights, verified listings and tools to navigate an evolving property market.