When an individual sells or transfers ownership of a property, they may be liable to pay capital gains tax (CGT) on the profit earned from the transaction. This tax applies to the difference between the purchase price (cost of acquisition) and the sale price of the property.
In this article, we will explore different aspects of capital gains tax on property, its types, exemptions, and other key details that impact property owners.

What Are Capital Gains Taxes on Property?

Capital gains tax is levied on the profit earned from the sale of a property or other capital assets. The taxable profit is calculated by deducting the purchase price and associated expenses (such as improvements or brokerage commissions) from the sale price.
For property owners, CGT applies when they sell real estate, land, buildings, or, in some cases, shares in real estate-related entities. The amount of tax payable depends on several factors, including the holding period of the asset, its classification, and applicable exemptions or deductions under the prevailing tax laws.
In India, capital gains tax on property is categorised into two types: Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG) and Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG). The tax treatment differs for each type, making it crucial for property owners to understand the difference between them.

Capital Gains Tax on Property for STCG

STCG tax applies when a property is sold within a relatively short period after purchase.
In India, if a property is sold within two years of acquisition, the profit is classified as short-term capital gains and taxed at the individual's applicable income tax slab rate.

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Capital Gains Tax on Property for LTCG

LTCG tax applies when a property is held for more than two years before being sold. Longer holding periods generally result in more favourable tax treatment.
In India, LTCG on property is taxed at 20% with indexation benefits (or at 12.5% without indexation benefits). Indexation adjusts the purchase price for inflation, effectively reducing the taxable gain and lowering tax liability.
For example, if the original purchase price of the property was INR 50,00,000, and the sale price was INR 75,00,000, the gain would be INR 25,00,000. However, applying indexation (adjusting for inflation) would reduce the capital gain, thus lowering the taxable amount.

Capital Gains Tax on Property: Exemptions

In India, property owners can avail of various exemptions to reduce or eliminate capital gains tax under specific circumstances. These exemptions significantly impact the tax payable on the sale of property.

1. Exemption on the Sale of Residential Property

Under Section 54 of the Income Tax Act, if an individual sells a long-term capital asset (a residential property held for more than two years) and reinvests the capital gains in purchasing or constructing another residential property within the stipulated time frame, they can claim an exemption on capital gains tax.

2. Exemption for Agricultural Land

In India, agricultural land located in rural areas is generally not subject to capital gains tax. The eligibility for tax relief depends on the location and classification of the land under tax laws.

3. Exemption on Inherited Property

When property is inherited, capital gains tax applies only when the heir decides to sell the property. However, exemptions under Section 54 may apply if reinvestment conditions are met.
To optimise tax savings, it is advisable to stay updated with the local regulations or consult a tax professional before making any property-related financial decisions.

Conclusion

Capital gains tax on property plays a crucial role in the taxation of profits earned from real estate sales. Whether you’re an existing or aspiring property owner, having a clear understanding of capital gains tax regulations helps in better financial planning and maximising tax benefits.
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