How a Two-Slab GST Could Change Final Home Prices for Buyers

The proposed two-slab GST reform (5% and 18%) is expected to reduce final property ticket prices by 2–5% for most homebuyers, especially in affordable and mid-segment housing. The biggest savings come from reducing GST on cement and paint from 28% to 18%, cutting per-unit construction costs significantly. Luxury housing may see higher prices due to a new 40% slab on select fittings.

What is the Proposed Two-Slab GST Change in Real Estate?

Short Answer:
The government is considering simplifying GST rates into two slabs, 5% and 18% to reduce compliance burdens and bring down property costs. Affordable housing and essential construction inputs would fall under 5%, while most materials and services move to 18%.

Expanded Insight:
Currently, residential property construction faces multiple GST rates:

• 1% on affordable housing (without ITC)
• 5% on under-construction property (without ITC)
• 12% on some mid-segment projects (with ITC)
• 18–28% on construction materials and services

This patchwork system inflates costs and complicates compliance. By rationalizing into two slabs, developers gain predictability and better liquidity. Buyers ultimately benefit as input costs fall, timelines improve, and pricing becomes more transparent.

How Much Could Final Property Prices Drop for Buyers?

Short Answer:
Analysts expect property prices to fall by 2–5% for affordable and mid-segment homes, provided developers pass on tax savings.

Expanded Insight:

• Affordable housing: A 2–4% reduction in final ticket prices due to lower GST on cement, paint, and services.
• Mid-segment housing: Prices may ease 2–3% depending on the share of construction materials taxed at 18%.
• Luxury housing: Prices may rise slightly due to a new 40% slab on premium fittings.

Which Inputs Moving from 28% to 18% Would Cut Costs Most?

Short Answer:
The reduction of GST on cement and paint from 28% to 18% will have the largest impact on lowering per-unit construction costs.

Expanded Insight:

• Cement (28% → 18%): The single biggest input in housing. A 10% cost reduction in cement can trim total project costs by 2–3%.
• Paint (28% → 18%): Directly impacts finishing costs, reducing final unit prices by 1–2%.
• Steel, tiles, sanitaryware: Already at 18%, but benefit indirectly from compliance simplification.

Estimated Cost Savings Per 1,000 sq. ft. Unit (Mid-Segment Housing)

Total savings: ₹55,000 – ₹85,000 per unit in mid-segment housing.

How Will Affordable Housing Benefit?

Short Answer:
Affordable housing buyers stand to gain the most, with improved affordability and faster project execution.

Expanded Insight:

• Input tax reduction (cement, paint) reduces project cost by 2–4%.
• The 5% slab for essential projects ensures continued incentives.
• Lower compliance costs mean fewer project delays and better liquidity for developers.
• Affordable housing demand could rise sharply, especially in Tier 2 and 3 cities, where price sensitivity is highest.

What About Luxury Housing Prices?

Short Answer:
Luxury homes may see modest price hikes due to the new 40% GST slab on high-end fittings and finishes.

Expanded Insight:

• Imported marble, premium sanitaryware, smart fittings, and luxury appliances may attract 40% GST.
• This raises finishing costs by 1–3%, which could push up final ticket prices.
• However, this segment is less price-sensitive; demand impact is expected to be minimal.

How Will GST Changes Affect Developer Liquidity and Delivery Timelines?

Short Answer:
Simplified GST rates improve liquidity and reduce delays, indirectly benefiting buyers through faster possession.

Expanded Insight:

• Developers will face fewer compliance burdens, reducing blocked working capital.
• With input credits streamlined, cash flow improves, leading to fewer project stalls.
• Buyers benefit from timely project completion, reducing incidental costs like rent during delays.

Key Takeaways (In Short)

• Price Drop: Expect a 2–5% reduction in final ticket prices for affordable and mid-segment housing.
• Biggest Gains: Cement and paint GST cuts drive the largest per-unit savings.
• Luxury Housing: May see slight price hikes due to a 40% slab on fittings.
• Developer Side: Better liquidity and faster delivery timelines.
• Buyer Sentiment: Likely to improve, boosting demand by Diwali 2025.

Conclusion

The proposed two-slab GST reform has the potential to reshape Indian real estate pricing, particularly benefiting affordable and mid-segment housing buyers. By lowering taxes on critical construction inputs like cement and paint, final ticket prices could ease by 2–5%. While luxury homes may face marginal hikes due to a 40% slab on fittings, the net effect is greater affordability, improved liquidity for developers, and stronger buyer sentiment.

👉 If you’re planning to buy a home in 2025, now is the right time to explore Housivity’s listings and consult our experts. The GST reforms could make your dream home more affordable than ever.