Buying a property in Queensland? Understanding stamp duty (transfer duty) concessions can save you thousands. For a $900,000 property purchased on or after May 1, 2025, concessions vary based on whether you're a first home buyer and the type of property—existing house, new house, or vacant land. This guide breaks down the concessions, eligibility, and how to avoid paying stamp duty entirely.
Key Takeaways
- First home buyers pay $0 stamp duty on new homes or vacant land (if fully residential).
- For existing homes, first home buyers pay $26,350, same as non-first home buyers purchasing to live in.
- Investors pay the full $33,525 in stamp duty, with no concessions.
- Only one concession applies per purchase, and foreign buyers may face an additional 8% duty.
Stamp Duty for Different Property Types
Below, we explain the stamp duty for a $900,000 property based on whether it's an existing house, new house, or vacant land, and your status as a buyer.
Existing House (Previously Occupied)
- First Home Buyer: First Home Concession applies, but for properties over $800,000, you pay the home concession rate of $26,350.
- Non-First Home Buyer (To Live In): Home Concession applies, also $26,350.
- Investment Property: No concessions, full duty of $33,525.
New House (Never Lived In)
- First Home Buyer: First Home (New Home) Concession provides a full exemption, so you pay $0.
- Non-First Home Buyer (To Live In): Home Concession applies, $26,350.
- Investment Property: No concessions, $33,525.
Vacant Land to Build a Home
- First Home Buyer: First Home Vacant Land Concession offers full exemption if the land is fully residential, $0.
- Non-First Home Buyer: No concessions, $33,525.
Comparison Table: Stamp Duty by Buyer and Property Type
Property Type | First Home Buyer | Non-First Home Buyer (To Live In) | Investment |
---|---|---|---|
Existing House | $26,350 | $26,350 | $33,525 |
New House | $0 | $26,350 | $33,525 |
Vacant Land | $0 (if fully residential) | $33,525 | $33,525 |
Eligibility and Key Conditions
- First Home Buyer: Must not have previously owned a residence, must occupy the home within 1 year (new/existing) or build and occupy within 2 years (vacant land).
- Non-First Home Buyer (To Live In): Must intend to live in the property as your primary residence.
- Foreign Buyers: May face an additional 8% duty; see Additional Foreign Acquirer Duty.
- Only one concession applies per purchase.
Tools to Verify Your Stamp Duty
- Eligibility Tester: Check which concession you qualify for.
- Transfer Duty Estimator: Calculate your exact duty, including concessions.
Conclusion
For a $900,000 property in Queensland, first home buyers can save significantly by choosing a new house or vacant land, paying $0 in stamp duty. Existing homes still offer concessions but at a higher cost. Always verify your eligibility and use the QRO's tools to ensure accurate calculations.
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