PropIQ › Guides › Ready-to-move vs under-construction
Ready-to-move vs under-construction
The single biggest structural choice in a home purchase is ready-to-move versus under-construction. They differ on tax, price, risk and timing — here is how to decide.
Side-by-side
| Factor | Ready-to-move | Under-construction |
|---|---|---|
| GST | 0% (with CC/OC) | 5% (1% affordable) |
| Price | Usually higher | Lower entry, payment-linked |
| Possession | Immediate — no wait | Wait + delay risk |
| What you see | The actual flat | A plan/sample; trust the builder |
| Rental start | Right away | After possession |
When ready-to-move wins
- You need to move in or rent out immediately.
- You want to avoid GST and construction-delay risk.
- You prefer to inspect the exact flat, light, view and quality before paying.
When under-construction wins
- You want a lower entry price and time to pay (construction-linked plan).
- You are buying early in a corridor expected to appreciate before possession.
- You are comfortable with the developer’s track record and RERA timeline.
The risk to manage
Under-construction upside comes with delivery risk. Mitigate it: buy RERA-registered phases, check the developer’s past delivery, watch quarterly RERA progress, and prefer escrow-compliant projects. PropIQ flags possession horizon and developer risk on every project page.
FAQs
Is it better to buy ready-to-move or under-construction?
Ready-to-move avoids GST and delay risk and lets you see the actual flat, usually at a higher price. Under-construction offers a lower entry price and appreciation runway but carries delivery risk — choose based on whether you value certainty or price/upside.
Do I save GST on a ready flat?
Yes — a completed flat sold with a completion/occupancy certificate attracts 0% GST, versus 5% (or 1% affordable) on under-construction.