Festive season · 2026

Buying a home this Diwali

Dhanteras falls on 6 November and Diwali on 8 November. Here's how to judge a festive offer.

The offers

Put a rupee value on each

• Price discount: get the revised sheet in writing
• Waived floor-rise or PLC
• Free parking or club membership
• Stamp duty paid by builder: absorbed in the price

GST

Only on under-construction homes

5% for regular housing, 1% for affordable. A ready home with an occupancy certificate has no GST.

Stamp duty

It depends on the city

• Bengaluru: 5% plus surcharge, 2% registration
• Gurugram: 7% men, 5% women, 6% joint (reported)
• Chennai: 7%, plus 2% registration

Before you book

Check the all-in price

Add every charge, divide by the carpet area, and compare. Confirm RERA, get offers in writing, and check the builder's delivery record.

Source: Panchang calendars; state stamps and registration departments