Stamp duty and registration charges are among the largest additional costs in a property purchase — often adding 6–10% to your total outlay. Understanding them before you buy can save you from surprises at the registration table.
What Is Stamp Duty?
Stamp duty is a government tax collected at the time of property registration. It is charged on the sale agreement and makes the property legally yours. Without paying stamp duty, the property cannot be registered in your name and your ownership has no legal standing.
Stamp Duty Rates State by State (2026)
- Delhi: 6% (men) / 4% (women) / 5% (joint)
- Haryana (Gurugram, Faridabad): 7% (men) / 5% (women)
- Uttar Pradesh (Noida, Greater Noida): 7% (men) / 6% (women)
- Maharashtra (Mumbai, Pune): 6% + 1% metro cess
- Karnataka (Bengaluru): 5% (above ₹45L), 3% (₹21L–₹45L)
- Gujarat (Ahmedabad): 4.9%
- Rajasthan (Jaipur): 6% (men) / 5% (women)
Registration Charges
In addition to stamp duty, you pay a registration fee — typically 1% of the property value (capped at ₹30,000 in some states). This is paid to the Sub-Registrar's office and is the same for all buyers regardless of gender.
What Is Circle Rate (Guidance Value)?
Circle rate (also called ready reckoner rate or guidance value) is the minimum rate set by the government for property valuation. Stamp duty is calculated on whichever is higher — the circle rate or the actual transaction price. You cannot register a property below circle rate.
GST on Under-Construction Properties
If you are buying an under-construction flat from a developer, GST applies at 5% (affordable housing: 1%). GST is charged on the base price before stamp duty. Ready-to-move flats with occupancy certificate are exempt from GST.
How to Save on Stamp Duty
- Register in a woman's name to get 1–2% reduction (available in Delhi, Haryana, UP)
- Buy in a state/city with lower rates
- Some states offer stamp duty waivers for first-time buyers — check current schemes
- For resale properties, negotiate a mutual agreement on transaction price documentation with your lawyer
Documents Needed for Registration
- Sale agreement / ATS (Agreement to Sell)
- PAN card of both buyer and seller
- Aadhaar card
- Passport-size photographs
- NOC from society/builder (if applicable)
- Encumbrance certificate
- Latest property tax receipts
Always hire a registered lawyer to review your sale deed before registration. For property guidance in Delhi NCR, call Brickwise at 9971116724.
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