The real estate industry has long been a space where legacy meets evolution. While tradition has shaped the foundation, the future belongs to those who can adapt, innovate, and redefine how we live. In this dynamic landscape, AVNI SANGHAVI, Director at Veena Developers, is making a mark by blending technology, sustainability, and customer-centric design into her company’s philosophy.
IN this exclusive conversation, she shares her journey into the real estate business, the evolving aspirations of Indian homebuyers, and how the next generation of entrepreneurs can navigate an industry deeply rooted in convention. From smart homes to sustainable construction, she sheds light on how Veena Developers is shaping the future of housing while staying true to its core values.
Coming from a family with a deep-rooted real estate legacy, what was it like stepping into this world, and what key lessons from the previous generation guide your leadership today?
Growing up in a family where real estate was a constant topic of conversation, stepping into the industry felt like a natural progression. My father has been in this business for over four decades, and my brother has spent more than twenty years shaping its growth. Discussions about projects, strategies, and challenges were part of every meal, so real estate never felt unfamiliar—it was in my blood. One of the biggest lessons I’ve inherited from my father is the absolute commitment to fulfilling promises. In our business, trust is everything—whether it’s with customers, vendors, or employees. If we commit to something, we deliver, even if it comes at a cost. This principle has become the foundation of my leadership. My father always says, “If you deliver on time, you don’t need marketing—your work speaks for itself.” While branding and marketing are essential in today’s world, the credibility built through timely delivery and consistent quality remains irreplaceable. Another guiding principle is patience. There are no shortcuts in real estate. My father and mother always remind me that even if progress feels slow, small, consistent steps lead to sustainable success. This long-term perspective is what ensures that a business not only grows but also endures.
The real estate industry is evolving rapidly. What key innovations is Veena Developers bringing to the table?
Innovation today is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. Traditional construction methods are evolving, and technology is redefining how we build and design living spaces. At Veena Developers, we’ve adopted aluminium shuttering technology, which enhances the efficiency, safety, and quality of our construction while significantly reducing timelines. Beyond construction, AI and smart home technology are shaping the next generation of housing. Our Veena Smart Homes integrate Alexa-enabled features, allowing residents to control lighting, air-conditioning, and fixtures with simple voice commands. This isn’t just about luxury—it’s about convenience, security, and enhancing the way people interact with their homes. Even behind the scenes, we leverage business intelligence tools to streamline project management and enhance customer experiences.
The real estate industry is evolving rapidly. What key innovations is Veena Developers bringing to the table?
Innovation today is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. Traditional construction methods are evolving, and technology is redefining how we build and design living spaces. At Veena Developers, we’ve adopted aluminium shuttering technology, which enhances the efficiency, safety, and quality of our construction while significantly reducing timelines. Beyond construction, AI and smart home technology are shaping the next generation of housing. Our Veena Smart Homes integrate Alexa-enabled features, allowing residents to control lighting, air-conditioning, and fixtures with simple voice commands. This isn’t just about luxury—it’s about convenience, security, and enhancing the way people interact with their homes. Even behind the scenes, we leverage business intelligence tools to streamline project management and enhance customer experiences. These innovations may not always be visible, but they make a significant difference in efficiency and service delivery.
The way people perceive homes has changed. How is the industry adapting to new lifestyle trends, especially with work-from-home and AI-driven infrastructure?
The pandemic completely reshaped the way people think about their homes. The era of tiny, confined spaces is over. People now want homes that allow them to work, relax, and grow—not just sleep. Layouts need to be functional, maximising space while maintaining an open, breathable environment. One of the biggest trends we’ve embraced is integrating workspaces within residential projects. Instead of just offering homes, we are designing environments where residents can step out of their apartments and work in a professional yet comfortable setting—a home away from home. Additionally, AI is revolutionising real estate, not just in customer interactions but also in design and management. By leveraging AI, we optimise layouts, improve security, and enhance the home automation experience, ensuring that the homes of the future are intuitive, efficient, and smart.
Millennials and Gen Z are redefining homeownership. How do their aspirations differ from previous generations?
Gen Z values flexibility over permanence. They aren’t in a rush to own a home—instead, they prioritise freedom, experiences, and financial agility. Many of them prefer smaller rented spaces that allow them to focus on travel, socialising, and career growth without the financial burden of ownership. Millennials, on the other hand, have a stronger inclination towards homeownership. They see real estate as a long-term investment, a space for stability and personal growth. This generational divide has significantly influenced the rise of rental and co-living models, prompting real estate developers to rethink traditional housing formats. We need affordable innovations that seamlessly integrate into the urban fabric. We are bridging this gap by combining smartly designed spaces with technology and community-driven amenities, creating homes that resonate with both generations.
Sustainability is a growing conversation in real estate. How does Veena Developers integrate green solutions into its projects?
Sustainability is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity. While we have begun incorporating eco-friendly initiatives, the real challenge is making them affordable. Green solutions often increase costs, and as a developer, I wouldn’t want my customers to bear that financial burden. The key is finding cost-effective, scalable green solutions. High-density cities like Mumbai need innovative sustainability models—from energy-efficient buildings to water conservation and eco-friendly materials. The industry is evolving, but we need solutions that are practical and accessible.
Are Indian homebuyers willing to pay a premium for sustainable housing, or is cost still the dominant factor?
The market is divided. In the luxury segment, only about 5% of decisions are price-driven—buyers are more open to sustainable features. But in the affordable luxury segment, cost remains a dominant factor. Buyers prioritise value over high-end sustainability concepts. The key is incremental progress. Even moving from 0% to 30% sustainability in a project can create a massive impact. Sustainability doesn’t have to be all or nothing—it can be a journey of small, meaningful steps.
As a woman in a male-dominated industry, what challenges and opportunities have you encountered?
Real estate is demanding—it requires grit, resilience, and a willingness to take risks. Women may not have been traditionally visible in this industry, but that is changing. The key is to show up, take charge, and prove your worth through performance. The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities. Women bring a unique perspective, a sense of responsibility, and authenticity to decision-making. While we still have a long way to go in terms of representation, the industry is evolving, and more women are stepping into leadership roles.
What advice would you give young entrepreneurs looking to enter real estate?
Start early. Learn from the ground up. Read, research, and immerse yourself in the industry. Real estate is not for the faint-hearted—it’s challenging, unpredictable, and demanding. But if you’re willing to put in the effort, the opportunities are limitless. Fail fast, learn quickly, and stay resilient. This industry rewards those who persevere, innovate, and build relationships on trust. The future of real estate isn’t just about buildings—it’s about creating spaces that redefine the way people live.
SMART, GREEN, BOLD AVNI SANGHAVI ON REAL ESTATE’S NEXT CHAPTER
