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Mar 30, 2026• 7 Min Read• Legal Desk
Navigating Property Taxes: A Guide for First-Time Buyers
Essential breakdown of taxes, stamp duties, and legal fees when buying real estate in Sri Lanka.
Buying your first property is a huge milestone. However, navigating the financial aspects, especially taxes and legal overheads, can be confusing without the right expert advice.
Stamp Duty
In Sri Lanka, stamp duty is a key government levy paid on property transactions. Currently, it is calculated as 3% for the first LKR 100,000 and 4% on the balance value of the deed. Ensuring this is paid correctly is vital for secure registration.
Legal and Registration Fees
Notary fees typically range between 1% to 2% of the transaction value. This covers title search checks, preparation of deeds of transfer, and secure registration in the land registry.