Key Stamp Duty Changes You Need to Know Before April 2025
This month, we’re bringing you important news on the recent changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) following the Autumn Budget. These updates, including adjustments to the SDLT surcharge for second homes, changes to relief thresholds for first-time buyers, and the upcoming expiration of temporary SDLT thresholds, could have a significant impact on your property plans. Read on to learn about the key developments and how they might affect your mortgage options.
Understanding the Autumn Budget Changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax
Following Labour’s 30 October 2024 budget, the Chancellor has introduced several updates to Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) that will impact buyers and property investors. But first, let’s review the basics of SDLT.
What is Stamp Duty Land Tax?
Stamp Duty Land Tax, commonly referred to as SDLT, is a tax levied by HM Revenue & Customs on property and land purchases in England. SDLT is calculated as a percentage of the property’s purchase price, but the rate varies depending on factors such as the property’s intended use and the buyer’s ownership status. For instance, the SDLT rate for first-time buyers differs from the rate applied to second-home buyers or companies purchasing property.
SDLT operates on a tiered basis, meaning different portions of a property’s price are taxed at progressively higher rates. With recent budget changes, it’s essential for buyers entering the property market or expanding their portfolios to understand the new SDLT rules and how they could affect transaction costs.
Key Changes to SDLT in the Autumn Budget 2024
1. First-Time Buyers: Changes to Relief Thresholds
Starting 31 March 2025, the SDLT relief threshold for first-time buyers will revert to its previous level of £300,000 (down from the current £625,000). This change means that first-time buyers purchasing homes above £300,000 will face SDLT costs on the amount over that threshold. The new SDLT rates for first-time buyers will be:
- Up to £300,000 – 0%
- £300,001 to £500,000 – 5%
For example, if a first-time buyer purchases a home valued at £350,000 after March 2025, they will incur £2,500 in SDLT, whereas under the current threshold, no SDLT would be payable.
2. Standard Rate SDLT Thresholds Expiring March 2025
The temporary increase in SDLT thresholds for main residences, introduced in September 2022, is set to expire on 31 March 2025. Until then, buyers benefit from reduced SDLT on properties valued up to £250,000. After March 2025, rates will revert to pre-2022 levels, increasing costs for properties over £125,000. The new SDLT rates for main residences will be:
- Up to £125,000 – 0%
- £125,001 to £250,000 – 2%
- £250,001 to £925,000 – 5%
- £925,001 to £1.5 million – 10%
- Over £1.5 million – 12%
This reversion means buyers may face increased SDLT costs for properties over £125,000, so timing your purchase before March 2025 could help maximise savings.
3. Increased SDLT Surcharge for Second Homes and Investment Properties
Effective from 31 October 2024, the SDLT surcharge for second homes, buy-to-let properties, and company purchases has increased from 3% to 5%. For instance, if you purchase a second home valued at £300,000, you will now pay an SDLT rate of 10% on the amount above £250,000, up from the previous 8%. Here’s a breakdown of the new SDLT rates on second homes and investment properties:
- Up to £250,000 – 5%
- £250,001 to £925,000 – 10%
- £925,001 to £1.5 million – 15%
- Over £1.5 million – 17%
These increases raise the cost of investing in additional properties and will impact the budgeting process for buy-to-let and investment property purchases.
Stay Informed with Impact Specialist Finance
With these SDLT changes on the horizon, timing is crucial for buyers hoping to minimise tax costs. First-time buyers and residential purchasers have until 31 March 2025, to take advantage of the current, more favourable SDLT thresholds. By acting before this deadline, buyers can avoid the increased costs that will come into effect when thresholds revert to pre-2022 levels.
At Impact Specialist Finance, we’re here to help you navigate these changes and find the best mortgage solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking to remortgage, or expanding your property portfolio, contact us today to explore your mortgage options and get ahead of the SDLT changes.