Stamp duty is a state-levied tax on property transactions, generally calculated as a percentage of the property's transaction value or government-assessed value, whichever applies under local rules. Registration charges are a separate fee for formally recording the transaction with the sub-registrar's office.

These charges are typically the buyer's responsibility and should be budgeted for in addition to the property's purchase price, since they can represent a meaningful additional cost.

Rates and specific rules vary by state, so buyers should confirm current applicable rates with their local sub-registrar's office or a qualified professional before finalising their budget.