Real estate has always been considered a reliable investment option, and with good reason. Not only does it provide long-term capital appreciation, but it also offers several tax benefits to investors. In this blog, we will discuss the various tax benefits of investing in real estate in India.
Investing in a residential property can provide tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. The repayment of the principal amount of the home loan is eligible for deduction up to Rs. 1.5 lakh per annum. This deduction is available for self-occupied as well as rented properties.
Interest paid on a home loan is eligible for deduction under Section 24 of the Income Tax Act. For self-occupied properties, the maximum deduction allowed is Rs. 2 lakh per annum. For rented properties, the entire interest paid is deductible from the rental income.
The government has introduced several measures to promote affordable housing. One such measure is the additional deduction of Rs. 1.5 lakh under Section 80EEA for first-time homebuyers purchasing affordable housing properties. The property value should be up to Rs. 45 lakh, and the loan amount should be up to Rs. 25 lakh.
When two or more individuals take a joint home loan, they can claim deductions under Section 80C and Section 24 for each co-borrower. This can significantly increase the tax benefits for the investors.
When a property is sold after holding it for more than two years, the resulting capital gains are considered long-term capital gains. Long-term capital gains on the sale of a residential property are exempt from tax if the proceeds are reinvested in another residential property within two years of the sale.
Rental income from let-out properties is taxable. However, investors can claim deductions for expenses such as property taxes, repair and maintenance expenses, and insurance premiums. Investors can also claim a standard deduction of 30% of the rental income to cover other expenses related to the property.
Investors can also claim tax benefits for investments in commercial properties. The interest paid on loans for commercial properties is eligible for deduction under Section 24. Investors can also claim deductions for expenses such as property taxes, maintenance, and repairs.
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are a relatively new investment option in India. REITs invest in income-generating properties such as office spaces, malls, and hotels. Investors can claim deductions for the dividends received from REITs under Section 80M of the Income Tax Act.
In conclusion, investing in real estate can provide significant tax benefits for investors. From deductions under Section 80C and Section 24 to capital gains tax exemptions and deductions for commercial properties, real estate provides a wide range of tax benefits. However, investors should also consider the risks involved and conduct thorough research before investing in any real estate property or REIT.