Kerala’s real estate market is changing in a very interesting way. More and more Malayalis living abroad—whether in Europe, America, or the Gulf—are starting to buy flats in their hometowns again. Some want a peaceful vacation home, others are planning to spend their retirement years in Kerala. This growing trend was clearly explained in a New Indian Express article titled “New trend taking shape in Kerala as expats seek home away from home”.
One thing is becoming very clear: NRIs want comfortable, modern, easy-to-maintain flats in Kerala. And because of that, places like Thrissur are becoming some of the most popular choices—especially when it comes to flats in Thrissur that offer safety, convenience, and all the modern amenities that overseas residents expect.
Why Are Expats Suddenly Interested in Flats in Kerala?
Even though many Keralites have lived abroad for decades, their connection with their homeland never goes away. But besides emotions, many practical reasons are driving this trend. Let’s look at them one by one.
1. Staying connected to family and culture
People who work in countries like Austria, Germany, Canada, or the UAE often visit Kerala once or twice a year. But now, many want a home where they can spend longer periods—sometimes up to six months.
A great example is mentioned in the New Indian Express report. Paul Johnson (name changed), a Keralite working in Vienna for the United Nations, built a spacious house in Koratty, Thrissur. Even though he and his family stay abroad most of the time, they plan to live in Kerala for half the year after retirement. His children also love visiting Kerala to understand their culture and stay connected to their roots.
Because of stories like this, many NRIs are now searching for premium flats in Thrissur that allow them to enjoy Kerala comfortably without worrying about repairs, security, or maintenance.
2. Kerala offers excellent healthcare—better than many countries abroad
One of the biggest benefits NRIs talk about is Kerala’s medical care. Many European countries have extremely long waiting times for even simple treatments. But in Kerala, hospitals offer:
- Fast medical attention
- Good doctors
- Advanced technology
- Affordable costs
The New Indian Express report even mentions that many international insurance companies accept hospital bills from Kerala now. This makes Kerala a very safe and convenient option for retired NRIs who may need regular checkups or treatment.
For these reasons, many older NRIs are searching for flats in Thrissur near hospitals or areas with quick access to medical facilities.
3. Flats in Kerala are much more comfortable for long stays
Living in Kerala for a few months every year is much easier on the wallet compared to living abroad.
Here, families can easily hire:
- Household help
- Drivers
- Cooks
- Gardeners
- Rental cars
—without spending too much money. Services like these are very expensive in Western countries, so for NRIs, Kerala offers a relaxed lifestyle that feels both affordable and familiar.
This comfort is one reason developers are now offering fully serviced apartment projects. NRIs are especially drawn to premium flats in Thrissur where they can simply “lock and leave” without worrying about anything.
Seasonal Living: A Trend That Keeps Growing
A lot of expats have started splitting the year between Kerala and their foreign homes. For example, the newspaper report talks about a retired couple from Vienna who spend October to March in Kerala every year just to avoid the freezing winters.
This idea of “seasonal living” is becoming very popular. NRIs want a home where they can:
- Stay for months
- Enjoy warm weather
- Spend time with family
- Live comfortably
- Avoid extreme climates abroad
This lifestyle shift has increased the demand for modern, well-managed flats in Thrissur since these homes are easy to maintain year-round.
How Builders Are Responding to This NRI Trend
Because of these changing needs, builders and developers across Kerala have started designing homes specifically for expatriates.
For example, in Koothattukulam, a builder is creating “guest homes” on a large plot. These homes will have:
- Food services
- Recreation options
- Maintenance teams
- Short-term rental options
- Airbnb management
This idea helps NRIs enjoy their home when they are in Kerala and earn income when they are abroad.
Similarly, in Thrissur, many new residential projects are created keeping NRIs in mind. That’s why flats in Thrissur—especially luxury and premium types—are in high demand.
Why Flats in Thrissur are a Top Choice for NRIs
Thrissur is emerging as one of the smartest places for NRIs to invest or settle. Here’s why:
✔ Centrally Located
Thrissur is close to Kochi Airport, major highways, train stations, and tourist spots. NRIs find this extremely convenient for travel.
✔ Peaceful yet well-developed
Thrissur offers a calm lifestyle but still has all the facilities of a modern city—schools, malls, hospitals, and entertainment.
✔ Cultural richness
NRIs love Thrissur because it has temples, festivals, art, and traditions that help them stay connected to Kerala’s culture.
✔ Great options for modern living
Many developers offer gated communities, smart apartments, and luxury homes. This is why people searching for premium flats in Thrissur often end up choosing new developments by trusted builders like TBPL Homes.
A New Chapter in Kerala Real Estate
In the past, during the 1970s and 1980s, Gulf NRIs built huge houses in Kerala. They were beautiful but often very big, hard to maintain, and expensive to manage.
Today, the trend is completely different.
NRIs now want:
- Practical homes
- Safe neighborhoods
- Modern amenities
- Maintenance-free living
- Good connectivity
Because of this, flats in Thrissur have become one of the most sensible and preferred choices.
Final Thoughts
Kerala’s real estate market is changing in a positive and exciting way. NRIs are returning, reconnecting, and investing again—but this time, with more practical and thoughtful choices.
Thrissur stands out as one of the best places for them, thanks to its peaceful lifestyle, central location, cultural feel, and excellent modern housing options.
FAQ
Why are NRIs increasingly investing in flats in Kerala?
NRIs are choosing flats in Kerala because they offer modern amenities, secure gated communities, easy maintenance, and a comfortable lifestyle during long visits or retirement. Kerala also provides excellent healthcare, good connectivity, and an emotional connection to their hometowns—all of which make investing here practical and meaningful.
Are flats in Kerala a good investment for long-term returns?
Yes. Flats in Kerala, especially in growing cities like Thrissur, Kochi, and Thiruvananthapuram, offer strong long-term value. These locations have rising rental demand, improving infrastructure, and steady appreciation. Many NRIs also earn extra income by renting their apartments when they are abroad.
What should NRIs look for when buying flats in Kerala?
NRIs should consider the builder’s reputation, project location, legal approvals (RERA), amenities, maintenance services, and proximity to hospitals, airports, and daily conveniences. Choosing premium flats ensures better security, property management, and hassle-free living during seasonal visits.
