CREDAI Seeks 100% Tax Deduction on Home Loan Interest to Stimulate Housing Demand

CREDAI, the apex body of real estate developers in India, has urged the government to increase the affordable housing price cap and reduce GST on under-construction homes to boost demand, especially in the affordable and mid-income segments. The organizat

CredaiHome Loan InterestAffordable HousingReal EstateGstReal Estate MumbaiNov 25, 2024

CREDAI Seeks 100% Tax Deduction on Home Loan Interest to Stimulate Housing Demand
Real Estate Mumbai:CREDAI, the Confederation of Real Estate Developers' Associations of India, has called on the government to implement several measures to boost the housing market, particularly in the affordable and mid-income segments. At a press conference, CREDAI President Boman Irani outlined these proposals, which include a 100% tax deduction on interest paid on home loans and a revision of the affordable housing price cap.

Proposals by CREDAI

100% Tax Deduction on Home Loan Interest
CREDAI is advocating for a 100% tax deduction on interest paid on home loans under the Income Tax Act. Currently, the deduction allowed under Section 24 of the Income Tax Act is limited to Rs 2 lakh. CREDAI's President-Elect, Shekhar Patel, believes that this change will significantly accelerate demand for housing.

Revising the Affordable Housing Price Cap
The organization is also urging the government to increase the cap on affordable housing from Rs 45 lakh to Rs 75-80 lakh. This increase is necessary to account for inflation since the cap was set in 2017. Boman Irani emphasized that if the cap is not revised, the affordability of homes will continue to decrease, deterring potential homebuyers.

Reducing GST on Under-Construction Homes
CREDAI suggests reducing the GST on under-construction homes costing up to Rs 75-80 lakh to 1%. Currently, there is a 1% GST on under-construction affordable homes priced up to Rs 45 lakh, and homes costing above Rs 45 lakh attract a 5% GST. Irani believes that lowering the GST will make homes more affordable and attract more buyers.

Additional Recommendations
Alternative Definition of Affordable Housing
CREDAI is also proposing an alternative definition of affordable housing. Instead of a price cap, the organization suggests that the only criteria should be the carpet area of 60 square meters in metros and 90 square meters in non-metros. This change would simplify the criteria and make it more flexible.

Improving Ease of Doing Business
CREDAI Chairman Manoj Gaur highlighted the need to streamline the process of obtaining government approvals for real estate projects. He noted that developers often spend 12-18 months securing these approvals, which can delay project timelines and increase costs.

on CREDAI
Established in 1999, CREDAI is the apex body representing real estate developers in India. With over 13,000 members across the country, CREDAI plays a crucial role in advocating for the interests of the real estate sector. The organization is committed to promoting sustainable and affordable housing, improving the business environment, and enhancing the quality of life for homebuyers.

Conclusion
By implementing these proposals, the government can significantly boost demand in the housing market, particularly in the affordable and mid-income segments. This, in turn, will not only benefit homebuyers but also stimulate economic growth and development in the real estate sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CREDAI?

CREDAI, or the Confederation of Real Estate Developers' Associations of India, is the apex body representing real estate developers in India. Established in 1999, it has over 13,000 members and works to promote sustainable and affordable housing, improve the business environment, and enhance the quality of life for homebuyers.

What is CREDAI's main proposal to boost housing demand?

CREDAI's main proposal is to provide a 100% tax deduction on interest paid on home loans under the Income Tax Act. This is aimed at putting more money in the hands of potential homebuyers and stimulating demand in the housing market.

Why is CREDAI urging the government to increase the affordable housing price cap?

CREDAI is urging the government to increase the affordable housing price cap from Rs 45 lakh to Rs 75-80 lakh to account for inflation since 2017. This increase will make more homes eligible for affordable housing status and attract more buyers.

What is CREDAI's suggestion regarding GST on under-construction homes?

CREDAI suggests reducing the GST on under-construction homes costing up to Rs 75-80 lakh to 1%. Currently, there is a 1% GST on homes priced up to Rs 45 lakh and 5% GST on homes costing more. Lowering the GST will make homes more affordable and attract more buyers.

How does CREDAI plan to improve the ease of doing business for developers?

CREDAI is advocating for streamlining the process of obtaining government approvals for real estate projects. Currently, developers spend 12-18 months securing these approvals, which can delay project timelines and increase costs. Simplifying this process will improve the ease of doing business and boost the real estate sector.

Related News Articles

Boosting Property Recovery: MahaRERA Enlists Retired Tehsildars in Pune and Mumbai
Real Estate Pune

Boosting Property Recovery: MahaRERA Enlists Retired Tehsildars in Pune and Mumbai

Pune: The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) is taking a proactive step to enhance property recovery efforts in Pune and Mumbai by enlisting the help of retired tehsildars. This move is expected to streamline the process and ensure be

December 2, 2024
Read Article
Understanding the Maharashtra Ready Reckoner Hike: Impact on Solapur to Mumbai Property Rates
real estate news

Understanding the Maharashtra Ready Reckoner Hike: Impact on Solapur to Mumbai Property Rates

The recent hike in ready reckoner rates in Maharashtra has significant implications for the real estate market, particularly in cities like Solapur and Mumbai. Homebuyers and property investors must be aware of the new rates and how they affect property values, stamp duty, and registration fees.

April 1, 2025
Read Article
Transindia Real Estate Expands Warehousing Portfolio in Key Markets in India
Real Estate

Transindia Real Estate Expands Warehousing Portfolio in Key Markets in India

Transindia Real Estate, a prominent player in the Indian real estate sector, has announced a significant expansion of its warehousing portfolio in key markets across India. Despite a recent drop in net profit, the company remains committed to its long-ter

November 10, 2024
Read Article
North Goa to Get Rs 4 Billion Boost for Tillari Reservoir Revamp
Real Estate Maharashtra

North Goa to Get Rs 4 Billion Boost for Tillari Reservoir Revamp

The Tillari reservoir, located in North Goa, is set to undergo a major revamp with the government investing Rs 4 billion in the project.

August 23, 2024
Read Article
Architecture and Design Fest 2024: Shaping the Future of Indian Real Estate
Real Estate

Architecture and Design Fest 2024: Shaping the Future of Indian Real Estate

Get ready for the most anticipated event in the real estate industry, as Realty+ brings forth the Architecture and Design Fest 2024 Conclave, a platform for innovation and growth.

July 25, 2024
Read Article
Godrej Properties Raises Rs 65 Crore Through Private Placement of Debentures
Real Estate Maharashtra

Godrej Properties Raises Rs 65 Crore Through Private Placement of Debentures

The NCDs have been allotted at a coupon rate of 8.50 per cent per annum. Interest will be paid annually and on maturity.

September 10, 2024
Read Article