Budget 2025 Expectations Live: Rationalize stamp duty rates, especially in Tier-II and Tier-III cities
“Over the past few years, the prices of land and construction materials have risen sharply, not only in metropolitan cities but across the country. This, coupled with sustained demand, has significantly driven up property prices, making homeownership increasingly challenging for many. As a result, the real estate sector, particularly the housing segment, requires robust government support to make home buying more affordable for aspiring buyers. Government intervention through targeted incentives could help alleviate the financial burden on homebuyers. One crucial area to address in the upcoming budget is the enhancement of the income tax deduction limit on home loan interest under Section 24(b), which has remained unchanged for over a decade. Increasing this limit would provide much-needed relief, particularly for buyers in high-cost urban markets. Another key measure is the extension and expansion of the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS). The government should consider raising the property price threshold for affordable housing eligibility, enabling more middle-income families to benefit from this scheme. Such an adjustment would not only boost demand but also encourage developers to focus on affordable housing projects, a segment currently experiencing a downturn in supply. Additionally, rationalizing stamp duty rates, especially in Tier-II and Tier-III cities, could significantly stimulate housing demand among mid-income and low-income groups. High stamp duty rates often act as a barrier for homebuyers, and reducing them could make homeownership more accessible in these emerging markets,” says Udit Jain, Director, One Group.
