I am buying a plot in Thoothukudi and want to know the stamp duty and property registration procedure under state law?

Detailed Legal Analysis

Registration of your sale deed is mandatory under Tamil Nadu Rent Control Act 1960 read with the Registration Act, and non-registration makes the document inadmissible in evidence. The Madras High Court has consistently held that under-valuation of stamp duty invites impounding of the document and penalty.

You must determine the market value through the sub-registrar's office in Thoothukudi before execution of the deed. Stamp duty is payable at the notified rate, with concessions sometimes available for women buyers or affordable housing.

The deed must be presented within four months of execution, extendable by another four months on payment of a fine. Mutation entries will be made only after the registered deed is produced before the revenue authority.

Digitally signed certified copies can be obtained from the state registration portal for future reference.