Version: BM
Young Malaysians aren’t dreaming of white picket fences, they’re aiming for panoramic city views!
A new analysis by property group Juwai IQI shows that more than four in five Gen Z buyers prefer condominiums or apartments over traditional landed homes.
This shows a sharp shift from the preferences of their parents and grandparents.
The study, which examined over 127,000 property transactions since 2018, highlights how this generational divide could reshape Malaysia’s housing landscape in the decades to come.
“Gen Z are buying into the skyline, while Millennials and Gen X keep their feet on the ground,” said Kashif Ansari, co-founder and group CEO of Juwai IQI.
The data paints a clear picture: 84% of Gen Z buyers opt for high-rise units, leaving only 16% choosing landed properties.
Generation X – now in their late 40s and 50s – still shows a stronger attachment to terraces, duplexes and bungalows, though three out of four of their purchases are also high-rise units.
Older Malaysians are shifting upward too.
Baby Boomers, aged 60 to 80, often downsize to condominiums for easier maintenance, while the oldest buyers – those above 80 – overwhelmingly choose high-rise living, making up 93% of their purchases.
According to Kashif, these preferences reflect both life stage and lifestyle.
Young professionals want to live closer to workplaces, public transport and amenities, while families in their 30s to 50s still prize space and privacy.
He also pointed out the economic factor: monthly expenses for a condominium are estimated to be RM200 cheaper than a terrace house and RM1,200 lower than a detached home.
Gen Z, who are nearly nine million strong, will drive demand in the housing market for the next 20 years as they upgrade to larger units or landed homes.”
Kashif Ansari, co-founder and group CEO of Juwai IQI.
“Their choices will shape how our cities and suburbs grow,” Kashif added.
Still, Malaysia’s housing stock remains dominated by landed properties.
In 2024, 69% of homes were landed, compared to 31% high-rise units, according to NAPIC data cited in the report.
Kashif concluded that developers and policymakers need to keep pace with these evolving preferences.
By recognising each generation’s needs, Malaysia can continue to provide homes that truly fit its people.
“Every generation has its preferences,” he said. “And by responding to them, we can build cities that work for everyone.”
Juwai IQI was featured in MSN, Penang Property Talk, Malay Mail, Business Today Malaysian
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