Hidden Costs to Watch Out for When Buying a House

Introduction

Buying a house is exciting, but unexpected costs can take you by surprise. Here’s a list of hidden expenses to watch out for.

Registration and Stamp Duty:

These fees can add 5–10% to the property value, depending on your location.

GST on Under-Construction Properties:

Currently, GST is 5% for most residential properties.

Home Loan Processing Fees:

Banks charge 0.25–1% of the loan amount as processing fees.

Interior and Furnishing Costs:

Don’t forget to budget for furniture, appliances, and customizations.

When will the project be completed?

If it’s under construction, verify the timeline and ask about delay clauses.

Maintenance Charges

Apartments often come with monthly fees ranging from ₹2–5 per sq. ft.

Legal and Due Diligence Costs

Hiring a lawyer to verify property documents can incur additional expenses.

Utility Connection Charges

Includes setting up electricity, water, and gas connections.

Property Insurance

Protect your investment with a comprehensive insurance policy.

Moving Costs

Factor in transportation and other moving-related expenses

Sinking Fund

Some communities require a one-time contribution for future repairs or upgrades.

Conclusion

Being aware of these costs will help you plan better and avoid surprises during your home-buying journey.