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Published on:
February 14, 2024
By
Viraaj Vashishth

Selling Your Land or Home? Understanding Taxation on Immovable Property

While the selling of fixed assets such as land, residences, or commercial establishments presents promising prospects, carefully weighing certain vital matters proves equally important. Of prime concern surrounds firmly grasping the fiscal repercussions tied to any such transaction. Delving beneath superficial understandings, this examination aims to illuminate the nuanced intricacies governing taxation on immovable property deals within India. Equipped with deeper insights into associated policies and procedures, homeowners and investors alike can confidently chart informed pathways for effectively facilitating sales and maximizing lawful benefits. 

Capital Gains Tax: The Big Picture

The primary tax applicable to property sales is Capital Gains Tax or CGT. Essentially, it's a levy on profits earned from selling an asset held for over one year. Gains are either short-term or long-term, depending on the holding period.

Short-term capital gains arise from sales completed in under two years. These sums are added to annual income and taxed at the owner's applicable rate. Long-term gains occur when the minimum two-year holding period is satisfied. Remarkably, a flat 20% rate applies to these, though indexation eases the burden somewhat. Indexation modifies purchase price for inflation, potentially diminishing owed taxes.

Key Exemptions and Deductions:

While a one-time exemption of up to Rs. 2 crore can offset gains from selling a residential property, numerous investment choices are available to taxpayers. The sale proceeds from a personal home can be used to purchase another property or put into specified bonds or capital gains schemes for either partial or full exemption on long-term capital gains tax. 

Expenditures made during ownership like purchase price and renovation outlays can reduce the tax implication when subtracted from the final sale price. Meanwhile, taxpayers have navigated complex tax regulations by strategically timing property sales and reinvesting the proceeds to maximize exemptions over their lifetime. Carefully selecting eligible investment avenues tailored to individual needs and timelines has allowed many to legally minimize the capital gains tax burden.

Additional Taxes and Considerations:

1. TDS (Tax Deducted at Source): For transactions over the limit, buyers must deduct 20% TDS from the sale price.

2. Stamp Duty and Registration Charges: These levies, calculated as a percentage of the price, differ between states but always apply.

3. Professional fees: Meeting with tax and legal experts can help navigate obligations while maximizing reliefs. The consultation confirms adherence to rules and explores tactics to lessen liability legally.

Beyond the Basics:

1. Inherited property: Selling inherited property generally doesn't attract CGT until the inheritor decides to sell. However, specific rules apply based on the inheritance type and timeline.

2. Agricultural land: Gains from selling agricultural land may be exempt from CGT under certain conditions.

3.Non-resident Indians (NRIs): NRIs selling Indian property are subject to different tax rules and may require additional compliance steps.

Suggestions

GST on Renting of Immovable Property - A Comprehensive Guide 

Immovable Property Renting- GST Law - Place of Supply Registration 

GST on renting out immovable properties/hotels for commercial use 

Updated on:
March 16, 2024