Last Updated on September 26, 2024 by Yasmina

Investing in Lombok, Indonesia, real estate requires understanding the various taxes and fees associated with property transactions. These costs can significantly impact your investment’s overall profitability, so you must be well-informed about your financial obligations as a property owner.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of property taxes and fees in Lombok, covering purchase taxes, ongoing taxes, and additional costs you may encounter.

1. Taxes on Property Purchase

When purchasing property in Lombok, both buyers and sellers are subject to several property taxes and fees. Understanding these costs upfront can help you budget accurately and avoid surprises during the transaction process.

A. Transfer Tax (Bea Perolehan Hak atas Tanah dan Bangunan – BPHTB)

Overview:
The Transfer Tax (BPHTB) is a tax levied on acquiring land and buildings in Indonesia. The buyer generally pays this tax during the property transaction.

Tax Rate:

• 5% of the property’s value or the sale price, whichever is higher.
• The Indonesian government determines the taxable value, which is known as Nilai Jual Objek Pajak (NJOP).

Example:
If you purchase a villa in Lombok for IDR 2 billion (approximately USD 130,000), you would pay a transfer tax of IDR 100 million (approximately USD 6,500).

B. Value-Added Tax (VAT) on New Properties

Overview:
A 10% value-added tax (VAT) may apply to newly constructed properties. The developer typically includes this tax in the price but should confirm it during purchase.

Example:
If you buy a newly built villa for IDR 3 billion (approximately USD 195,000), the VAT could be IDR 300 million (approximately USD 19,500) if it is not included in the sale price.

C. Seller’s Income Tax (Pajak Penghasilan – PPh)

Overview:
The seller is required to pay income tax (PPh) upon sale of the property. This tax is 2.5% of the property’s sale price. While this tax is the seller’s responsibility, buyers should ensure that the seller has paid it to avoid legal complications.

Example:
If a seller sells a property for IDR 4 billion (approximately USD 260,000), they would need to pay an income tax of IDR 100 million (approximately USD 6,500).

D. Notary and Legal Fees

Overview:
A notary is required to oversee property transactions in Indonesia, ensuring that all legal documents are correctly prepared and registered. The buyer typically pays the notary fee, which is usually calculated as a percentage of the property value.

Fee Range:

• 1% to 2.5% of the property value.

Example:
For a property valued at IDR 2 billion (approximately USD 130,000), the notary fee could range from IDR 20 million to IDR 50 million (approximately USD 1,300 to USD 3,250).

2. Ongoing Property Taxes

After purchasing a property in Lombok, you’ll be responsible for ongoing property taxes. These taxes are typically paid annually and are based on the assessed value of the land and buildings.

A. Land and Building Tax (Pajak Bumi dan Bangunan – PBB)

Overview:
The Land and Building Tax (PBB) is an annual tax levied on property owners in Indonesia. This tax is based on the Nilai Jual Objek Pajak (NJOP), or the government’s assessed value of the land and buildings.

Tax Rate:

• The rate for PBB varies depending on the property’s location and value, but it typically ranges from 0.1% to 0.3% of the NJOP.

Example:
If the NJOP of your villa in Lombok is IDR 1 billion (approximately USD 65,000), your annual PBB could range from IDR 1 million to IDR 3 million (approximately USD 65 to USD 195).

B. Garbage and Environmental Fees

Overview:
In addition to PBB, some local governments in Lombok may charge fees for waste management and environmental services. These fees are usually modest and are paid annually.

Example:
A property owner in Lombok may pay an annual waste management fee of IDR 500,000 (approximately USD 32) as part of their local government property taxes.

3. Additional Fees and Costs

Beyond property taxes, there are several additional fees and costs that property buyers and owners in Lombok should be aware of. These costs can vary depending on the type of property and the specifics of the transaction.

A. Mortgage Fees

Overview:
If you’re financing your property purchase with a mortgage, there are additional fees to consider. These may include mortgage processing fees, appraisal fees, and bank administration fees.

Common Fees:

• Mortgage Processing Fee: Typically 1% to 2% of the loan amount.
• Appraisal Fee: A flat fee for property appraisal, usually ranging from IDR 1 million to IDR 5 million (approximately USD 65 to USD 325).

Example:
For a mortgage of IDR 1.5 billion (approximately USD 97,500), you could pay a processing fee of IDR 15 million to IDR 30 million (approximately USD 975 to USD 1,950).

B. Insurance Costs

Overview:
Property insurance is recommended to protect your investment in Lombok. It can cover risks such as natural disasters, theft, and damage.

Types of Insurance:

• Home Insurance: Covers damage to the property from fire, storms, and other risks.
• Contents Insurance: Protects your belongings inside the property.

Example:
Annual home insurance premiums in Lombok might range from IDR 2 million to IDR 10 million (approximately USD 130 to USD 650), depending on the property’s value and coverage level.

C. Property Management Fees

Overview:
If you’re not living in Lombok full-time or if you’re renting out your property, hiring a property management company can be a smart choice. Property management fees typically cover services such as tenant management, maintenance, and rent collection.

Fee Range:

• 10% to 20% of the rental income for management services.

Example:
If your villa in Lombok generates IDR 300 million (approximately USD 19,500) in annual rental income, you could pay a management fee of IDR 30 million to IDR 60 million (approximately USD 1,950 to USD 3,900) per year.

4. Tax Considerations for Foreigners

As a foreign investor in Lombok, it’s important to understand the tax implications of owning property in Indonesia. While Indonesia has tax treaties with many countries, you may still be subject to taxes in both Indonesia and your home country.

A. Double Taxation Agreements (DTA)

Overview:
Indonesia has Double Taxation Agreements (DTA) with several countries, which are designed to prevent foreign investors from being taxed twice on the same income. These agreements can provide tax relief and reduce the overall tax burden for foreign property owners.

Example:
If you’re a resident of a country that has a DTA with Indonesia, you may be able to offset Indonesian property taxes against your home country’s taxes on rental income or capital gains.

B. Withholding Tax on Rental Income

Overview:
If you rent out your property in Lombok, rental income earned by foreigners is subject to a withholding tax. This tax is usually withheld by the tenant or property management company and paid to the Indonesian tax authorities.

Tax Rate:

• 10% of the gross rental income.

C. Capital Gains Tax

Overview:
When selling property in Lombok, foreigners are subject to Capital Gains Tax on any profits made from the sale. The capital gains tax rate for property sales by foreign investors is typically 20%.

Example:
If you sell a property for IDR 5 billion (approximately USD 325,000) and make a profit of IDR 1 billion (approximately USD 65,000), you would be required to pay a capital gains tax of IDR 200 million (approximately USD 13,000).

5. Tax Filing and Compliance

Staying compliant with Indonesian tax laws is essential for property owners in Lombok. This includes filing tax returns, paying taxes on time, and keeping accurate records of your property-related income and expenses.

A. Annual Tax Filing

Overview:
Property owners in Lombok must file an annual tax return with the Indonesian tax authorities. This return should include all income earned, including rental income, as well as any property taxes paid.

Tip:
Consider hiring a local tax advisor to assist with tax filing and ensure compliance with Indonesian tax laws.

B. Record Keeping

Overview:
Maintaining accurate records of your property transactions, expenses, and income is crucial for tax compliance. These records will be necessary for tax filings and in case of an audit by the tax authorities.

Tip:
Keep copies of all receipts, contracts, and tax payments related to your property in Lombok for at least five years.

Conclusion

Understanding the property taxes and fees associated with real estate investment in Lombok is essential for making informed decisions and maximizing your returns. By accounting for these costs and staying compliant with tax regulations, you can enjoy the benefits of owning property in this beautiful and growing market. Whether you’re buying a villa, renting out a property, or planning for the long term, being prepared for the financial obligations will help ensure a successful investment.

About Nour Estates

We started Nour Estates with a simple idea: to make finding your dream property in Indonesia as easy and enjoyable as a day at the beach. Our team is a mix of local folks and people from around the world who fell in love with Indonesia just like you. We’ve been in your shoes, faced the challenges of buying land here, and learned all the ins and outs. Now, we’re here to share that knowledge with you.

We are here to find you the perfect property to invest in. Contact us today, and let’s start this exciting journey together!