Stamp Duty & Registration Charges When Buying Property in India
On top of the price you agree with the seller, the government charges stamp duty and registration fees when a property changes hands. These are a meaningful part of your total cost, so they belong in your budget from day one.
In this guide
What are stamp duty and registration charges?
Stamp duty is a state tax paid on the transfer document (sale deed). Registration charges are a separate fee paid to register that document with the sub-registrar. Once the deed is registered, the transfer becomes legally recorded.
Why the amount differs
Property is a state subject, so each state sets its own rates. The rate can also depend on the property's value, the circle rate (the government's minimum valuation for an area), the buyer profile — some states offer a concession for women buyers — and whether the property is urban or rural.
Because these rules are revised from time to time, always confirm the current rates on your state's stamps and registration department website before you finalise your budget.
How to estimate the cost
- Find the higher of the agreement value and the circle-rate value for the property.
- Multiply by the state's stamp-duty percentage.
- Add the registration fee, which is often a smaller percentage or capped amount.
- Add legal and documentation charges if you use a lawyer.
Other costs to budget for
- GST on under-construction properties.
- Loan processing and valuation fees.
- Society transfer fee or maintenance deposit on resale flats.
- Brokerage, if applicable.
- Interiors, moving and utility deposits.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays stamp duty — buyer or seller?
In a sale, the buyer normally pays the stamp duty and registration charges unless the parties agree otherwise in writing.
Can stamp duty be included in a home loan?
Most lenders do not finance stamp duty and registration; you generally need to pay these from your own funds. Check with your bank.
This article is for general information only and is not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, rates and charges vary by state and change over time — verify current details with the relevant authority or a qualified professional before you decide.