What Is the Stamp Duty in Visakhapatnam?

What Is the Stamp Duty in Visakhapatnam?
Author: Houssed | Posted on: 06-May-2024 | Updated on: 26-Jul-2024

Stamp duty in Visakhapatnam is a mandatory fee on property transactions governed by the Indian Registration Act 1908. It's calculated at 5% of the property's market value for all genders and joint ownership combinations. Additionally, there's a 1% registration and a 1.50% transfer duty charge, totalling 7.50% of the property's market value

How is Stamp Duty Assessed in Visakhapatnam?

In Visakhapatnam, stamp duty assessment follows a straightforward formula based on the property's value. For instance, if someone buys a property worth Rs 50 lakh, stamp duty is calculated at 5 per cent, amounting to Rs 2.50 lakh. Additionally, a 1 per cent registration charge and a 1.50 per cent transfer duty charge, based on the property's market value, are levied, totalling Rs 3,75,000.

This structure applies uniformly regardless of gender or joint ownership. Thus, stamp duty assessment in Visakhapatnam is a transparent process directly linked to property value, ensuring clarity and consistency for all transactions.

5 Factors Affecting Stamp Duty Rates in Visakhapatnam

Age of the Property

The age of the property often influences the stamp duty rates. Older buildings often have lower stamp duty charges in Visakhapatnam due to potential depreciation over time.

Age of Owner

Reduced stamp duty charges in Visakhapatnam based on age may benefit senior citizens, promoting affordability for older individuals.

Objective

Stamp duty charges may differ based on whether the property in Visakhapatnam is for commercial or residential use. Commercial properties typically have higher stamp duty fees due to extra features and requirements.

Location

Stamp duty rates in Visakhapatnam vary depending on where the property is situated. Areas within the city limits or upscale neighbourhoods generally have higher stamp duty rates, while properties on the outskirts or within Panchayat limits may have lower charges.

Amenities

Certain amenities like lifts, swimming pools, gyms, and community halls in Visakhapatnam can lead to additional stamp duty fees during property registration.

Documents Needed for Payment of Stamp Duty in Visakhapatnam

Documents Needed for Payment of Stamp Duty in Visakhapatnam:

  • Photo ID (Aadhar/PAN/Driving License)
  • Verified copy of original sale deed
  • Copy of property register card (from City Survey department)
  • Copy of municipal tax bill

How To Pay Stamp Duty in Visakhapatnam

There are three ways to pay stamp duty in Visakhapatnam:

Online Procedure:

Follow the below steps to pay stamp duty in Visakhapatnam online:

  • Visit the registration department website.
  • Download the required form.
  • Fill in property details like location, size, and age.
  • Submit details online.
  • Pay stamp duty charges online or at the Sub-registrar's office.
  • Payment options include registered vendors or the Sub-registrar's office.
  • Book a time slot for document verification

Offline Procedure:

  1. Stamp Paper: Purchase stamp paper from an authorized vendor, print the agreement terms, and have both parties sign it. The buyer must register the property within four months of signing.
  2. E-stamping: Pay stamp duty online through SHCIL's e-stamping process. Upon payment, receive an e-stamp certificate with a unique Certificate Number (UIN) for future use.
  3. Franking: Take the agreement to a bank or franking centre, pay stamp duty, and get the papers stamped. Alternatively, use pre-printed stamp papers that have undergone the stamping process.

4 Ways To Save on Stamp Duty Charges

Look For Projects Offering Stamp Duty Waivers

In Visakhapatnam, consider projects offering stamp duty waivers. Developers often use this incentive to attract buyers and boost sales. Take advantage of these offers, but thoroughly assess all purchase details for informed decision-making.

Projects With Fewer Amenities

Opting for housing projects without premium amenities can also lower stamp duty charges. Premium facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, and clubhouse access often increase the property's valuation, increasing stamp duty payments. By choosing projects with fewer amenities, buyers can mitigate this expense. This decision aligns well with the preferences of those who prioritise affordability over additional facilities, providing a pragmatic approach to stamp duty management.

Less Developed Areas

In certain regions, urban property buyers face higher stamp duty charges than those in rural areas. Municipal areas typically impose higher stamp duty rates, while properties outside municipal limits may attract lower rates. For individuals primarily seeking residential properties, exploring options in less developed areas can yield considerable savings on stamp duty. This strategy capitalises on regional differentials in stamp duty rates, offering a practical avenue for cost reduction.

Invest in a Project that Offers Stamp Duty Exemptions

People are suggesting that affordable housing should not have stamp duty charges. If this idea becomes a rule, it will help people who buy affordable homes save a lot of money. This means they won't have to pay stamp duty fees, making buying a house easier. Choosing projects that offer this exemption can save buyers a significant amount of money, making it a good idea for people who want to buy a home.

Conclusion

How is stamp duty assessed in Visakhapatnam?

In Visakhapatnam, stamp duty is calculated at 5% of the property's value, plus a 1% registration charge and a 1.50% transfer duty charge. This applies uniformly to all transactions, ensuring transparency and consistency.

Factors affecting stamp duty rates in Visakhapatnam

  • Age of the Property
  • Age of Owner
  • Gender of Owner
  • Objective
  • Location
  • Amenities

Documents needed for payment of stamp duty in Visakhapatnam

  • Photo ID (Aadhar/PAN/Driving License)
  • Verified copy of original sale deed
  • Copy of property register card (from City Survey department)
  • Copy of municipal tax bill

How to pay stamp duty in Visakhapatnam?

  • Online Procedure
  • Offline Procedure

4 ways to save on stamp duty charges

  • Look For Projects Offering Stamp Duty Waivers
  • Projects With Fewer Amenities
  • Less Developed Areas
  • Invest in a Project that Offers Stamp Duty Exemptions

FAQ's

Yes, there is an e-filing option available for stamp duty in Visakhapatnam. You can visit the registration department website to access the required forms and submit details online.
The current stamp duty in Visakhapatnam is calculated at 5% of the property's market value, along with a 1% registration charge and a 1.50% transfer duty charge.
No, cash cannot be used to pay stamp duty in Visakhapatnam. Payment options include online or at the Sub-registrar’s office through registered vendors.
Refunds for stamp duty paid in Visakhapatnam typically aren't common. However, you must consult the relevant authorities if there's an overpayment or if there are any specific circumstances.
There is no general exemption for first-time buyers from stamp duty in Visakhapatnam. However, specific exemptions or discounts may be available based on regional policies or government schemes, which would need to be checked with local authorities.