Up ahead from January is a debilitating 30 per cent hike in stamp duty, increasing flat prices further

The dream to own a house in the city is likely to get more expensive in 2010.

According to real estate sources, the ready reckoner rates based on which a buyer pays stamp duty in prime areas like Colaba, Cuffe Parade, Bandra, Santacruz, Vile Parle, Juhu and Andheri will rise by 10-15 per cent from January.

What's worse, stamp duty will be charged on carpet area instead of the built up area, which means an additional 10-15 per cent rise in the registration.

A buyer will therefore spend about 20-30 per cent more than the current rate for stamp duty registration.

Mumbai Dreams: According to brokers, the new stamp duty rates will discourage buyers and may result in black marketing of properties. Read Next Story Death wish› Trending Stories Latest Photos Latest Videos Latest Web Stories ADVERTISEMENT Mid-Day Fast ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT