Buying a flat in Dhaka is one of the most significant financial and emotional investments one can make. Whether you’re looking for a dream home for your family or securing your future with a smart investment, understanding the legal processes involved is absolutely essential. One of the most crucial steps in this journey is flat registration—the legal process that transfers ownership of the property from the developer or seller to the buyer.
Flat registration involves several fees, documentation steps, and legal protocols, which if not followed properly, can cause delays or even legal disputes. That’s why we at Concord Property Solutions have created this comprehensive, easy-to-understand guide to walk you through every aspect of flat registration in Dhaka. This is one of the most essential steps to buying a flat in Dhaka.
Current Flat Registration Fee Rates in Dhaka
Understanding the cost of registration is key to planning your budget effectively. Several government-imposed fees apply when registering a flat, and these are calculated as a percentage of the flat’s declared value in the deed.
Here’s a breakdown of the applicable rates in Dhaka:
| Fee Type | Rate |
| Stamp Duty | 1.5% of the flat’s deed value |
| Registration Fee | 1% of the flat’s deed value |
| Local Government Tax | 2% of the flat’s deed value |
| VAT (up to 1600 sq ft) | 2% of the deed value |
| VAT (over 1600 sq ft) | 4.5% of the deed value |
These rates are mandated by the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and may change based on policy updates. In some cases, areas with lower property values may benefit from slightly reduced taxes.
Documents Required for Flat Registration
Accurate documentation is the backbone of a successful registration process. Below are the key documents you’ll need to submit at the Sub-Registrar’s Office for flat registration.
For Buyers:
- National ID Card or Passport
- TIN Certificate (Tax Identification Number)
- 3 recent passport-sized photos
- Copy of the Baynanama (Sale Agreement)
- Bank receipts for VAT, stamp duty, registration fees, and local tax
- Power of Attorney, if a third party is representing the buyer
For Sellers:
- National ID Card or Passport
- TIN Certificate
- Original Title Deed and Khatian
- Mutation Certificate
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Developer or Concerned Authority
Always ensure that the documents are up to date and that there are no encumbrances or legal disputes associated with the property.
Timeline for Completion
Flat registration is not a one-day process. Each step takes time and involves coordination between different government offices. Here’s a projected timeline to help you plan accordingly:
- Step 1: Title Verification – 2 to 3 working days
- Step 2: Drafting the Sale Deed – 1 to 2 working days
- Step 3: Payment of Fees – 1 day (depending on bank processing)
- Step 4: Visit to Sub-Registrar’s Office – 1 to 3 working days
- Step 5: Mutation Application – Submit right after registration
- Step 6: Mutation Approval – Usually completed within 7 to 8 working days
In total, the registration process may take anywhere between 2 to 3 weeks, depending on document readiness, government holidays, and workload at the Sub-Registrar’s Office. Working with a trusted property brokerage can make the process faster and easier.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes that buyers should be cautious of:
- Declaring a lower flat value to save on registration fees (illegal and risky).
- Not verifying the mutation status of the property before registration.
- Delays in mutation application after registration.
- Overlooking the developer’s NOC or building approval documents.
- Missing tax clearance certificates or TIN submissions.
Final Thoughts
Flat registration is more than just a legal formality—it is proof of your rightful ownership. While the process may seem overwhelming at first, with the right information and guidance, it can be completed smoothly and efficiently. We at Concord Property Solutions are always here to guide you every step of the way—from selecting the right property to ensuring your ownership documents are 100% legally secured.
If you have questions or need expert assistance, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to simplify your property journey in Dhaka.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is flat registration, and why is it important?
Flat registration is the legal process of recording the ownership of a property in the government’s land records. It is proof that you are the lawful owner of the flat. Without registration, you cannot claim legal rights to the property or resell it in the future.
How much does it cost to register a flat in Dhaka?
The total registration cost in Dhaka typically ranges between 6.5% to 9% of the flat’s deed value. This includes:
- 1.5% Stamp Duty
- 1% Registration Fee
- 2% Local Government Tax
- 2% or 4.5% VAT (based on flat size)
Who pays the registration fee – the buyer or the seller?
The buyer is responsible for paying all registration-related fees and charges unless otherwise agreed upon in the sale agreement.
What is the deed value?
The deed value (also called declared value) is the price mentioned in the sale deed. All government charges like stamp duty, VAT, and registration fee are calculated based on this value.
Can I register a flat through a power of attorney?
Yes, a flat can be registered via a registered Power of Attorney (POA), provided the POA is valid and includes the authority to sell, buy, or register property. However, it’s always safer for the actual buyer and seller to be present during registration.
