RBI Invites Bids for Three Lonavala Bungalows: A Rare Opportunity in the Hills.

RBI Invites Bids for Three Lonavala Bungalows: A Rare Opportunity in the Hills

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has made an intriguing announcement for real estate enthusiasts and investors: it's inviting bids to sell three charming bungalows perched in Lonavala, just a stone’s throw away from Mumbai, for a base price of ₹6.55 crore.

Property Snapshot

• Location: Situated near the serene Lonavala Lake, on a plot exceeding 3,800 sqm, these ground-plus-one bungalows were once holiday homes for RBI personnel. 

• Sale Conditions: The properties will be sold on an “as is, where is” and “as is what is” basis—meaning buyers take on all liabilities and responsibility for site condition.

• Timeline:

  • Inspection deadline: September 8, 2025

  • Bid submission & opening: September 9, 2025 

• Financials:

  • Reserve Price: ₹6.55 crore for the trio

  • Earnest Money Deposit (EMD): ₹10 lakh 

• Process Management: Cushman & Wakefield India has been appointed to oversee the sealed-bid process. 

• Buyer Responsibility: Successful bidders must clear all outstanding dues with local authorities. 

Why Lonavala Matters: Real Estate on the Rise

• Growing Popularity: Nestled just ~100 km from Mumbai and ~60 km from Pune, Lonavala has long been a go-to destination for weekenders and second-home buyers—especially during the monsoon and winter months. 

• Investor Profile: The town attracts homebuyers predominantly from Mumbai, Pune, and Gujarat, along with a growing number of NRIs. Brokers note deals often close between April and June.

• Property Metrics:

  • Per sqft rates: Can exceed ₹15,000

  • Typical sale prices: ₹2–3 crore for 3–4 BHK villas and serviced apartments

  • Rental yield: Impressively estimated at 10–15% gross 

• Bollywood’s Touch: Stars like Dharmendra, Salman Khan, and Sunil Shetty own holiday properties around Lonavala—adding prestige to the region.

What Makes This Sale Stand Out?

1. Institutional Asset Sale: It’s rare for RBI-owned properties—especially in a high-demand market like Lonavala—to be up for grabs, presenting an exclusive chance for investors.

2. Bulk Offer: Acquiring three bungalows together allows for strategic use—be it as luxury rentals, personal retreats, or redevelopment projects.

3. Attractive Pricing: While ₹6.55 crore is substantial, as a package deal in a prime location with high per sqft rates and strong rental returns, it could present solid value.

5. Transparent Process: Managed by a renowned firm with sealed offers and set deadlines ensures fair opportunity and clarity for bidders.

6. Urgency & Planning: Interested parties must act quickly—inspection and bid deadlines are early September—making preparedness crucial.

Conclusion

The RBI’s decision to auction three bungalows in Lonavala is more than just a property sale—it’s a rare chance for investors and lifestyle buyers to own a piece of prime hill-station real estate. With growing demand for second homes, attractive rental yields, and the prestige of owning property in one of Maharashtra’s most sought-after holiday destinations, this offering could turn into a valuable long-term investment. However, given the short inspection and bid timelines, interested buyers must act quickly, conduct due diligence, and plan strategically. Whether for personal retreat, rental income, or future redevelopment, this opportunity is set to attract significant attention in the real estate market.