Property GuideFinance

Stamp duty and legal fees in Malaysia explained

The main transaction costs to budget for when buying a home in Johor Bahru.

7 min readUpdated October 2026

A realistic buying budget should include more than the deposit. The exact amount depends on the property value, loan, buyer profile and any current exemptions, but the same core cost categories appear in most Malaysian purchases.

Transfer-related costs

Stamp duty may be payable on the instrument that transfers ownership, commonly referred to as the Memorandum of Transfer. It is generally assessed using the higher applicable value under current rules. Legal fees also apply for conveyancing work and usually attract tax and disbursements.

Loan-related costs

Financed purchases can involve a separate loan agreement legal fee, stamp duty on the loan documentation, valuation fees and bank-related charges. Ask for a written estimate based on your intended loan amount.

  • Purchase legal fees and disbursements
  • Transfer stamp duty
  • Loan legal fees and stamp duty
  • Valuation fee
  • State consent or registration charges where applicable
  • Initial maintenance, sinking-fund and utility deposits

Ask for an itemised quotation

Before signing, request an itemised estimate from your appointed lawyer and loan provider. Clarify which items are professional fees, government charges, taxes or reimbursable expenses, and keep a contingency for adjustments at completion.

This guide does not calculate tax or legal liability. Rates and exemptions change; obtain a current written quotation from a Malaysian lawyer and confirm tax treatment with a qualified adviser.

Your checklist

Get an itemised legal quotation
Include both purchase and loan costs
Confirm any current exemption
Budget for valuation and registration
Allow for building deposits
Keep a completion contingency

Home Property guides provide general information, not legal, financial or tax advice. Verify requirements with the relevant authority and qualified professionals before making a property decision.