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The GST Council's recent decision to waive Goods and Services Tax (GST) on rentals below INR 20,000 per month is set to ease financial burdens for tenants in apartments and co-living spaces. Effective for stays exceeding 90 days, this exemption clarifies tax obligations and is expected to stimulate demand in the co-living sector. Experts anticipate reduced rental costs will benefit tenants and spur growth in student housing and co-living segments. While stakeholders applaud the move, they advocate for broader exemptions to further bolster affordability in India's urban rental markets, potentially fostering a more dynamic housing ecosystem across cities.
The GST Council's recent decision to exempt rentals up to INR 20,000 per month from Goods and Services Tax (GST) will make renting an apartment or co-living space more budget-friendly.
The issue of GST on residential rentals used to be a confusing one. This new rule brings much-needed clarity. Long-term stays (over 90 days) in hostels, co-living spaces, and even some apartments will be exempt from GST, provided the monthly rent per person stays under the INR 20,000 limit.
Experts believe this will significantly benefit both tenants and the co-living industry. Tenants will see a direct reduction in their monthly rent, freeing up some breathing room in their budgets. Co-living operators and student housing companies, whose rents typically fall below this threshold, will gain much-needed clarity on tax regulations and potentially see an increase in demand for their services.
While the current exemption is a positive step, industry players are hopeful for a complete exemption on long-term residential rentals. This would further reduce the financial burden on tenants and make renting even more affordable.
Experts predict this move will act as a catalyst for the co-living and student housing sectors. Increased affordability will attract a wider range of tenants, including young professionals (earning entry-level salaries) and students migrating to cities for education and work. This could lead to a surge in demand for these types of accommodations, creating a more dynamic and accessible housing market in urban centers across India.
The 90-day minimum stay requirement is easily met in student housing and co-living arrangements, where lease durations tend to be longer. This ensures students and young professionals will reap the maximum benefits of the GST exemption.
Overall, the GST Council's decision is a welcome change that will make renting in urban areas more affordable for students and young professionals. This, in turn, could lead to a more vibrant and accessible housing market in India's cities.
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