Buying October 31, 2024
     

Stamp Duty on second homes: all you need to know

Thinking of buying a second home? The recent Autumn Budget announcement by Chancellor Rachel Reeves has significant implications for those planning to buy a second home or invest in a buy-to-let property in the coming year. With changes to the Stamp Duty tax rate and adjustments to tax thresholds set to take effect in 2024 and 2025, prospective buyers will want to understand these updates and plan accordingly. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and how you can best navigate these changes:

Key Stamp Duty changes for second homes 

Starting 31 October 2024, the Stamp Duty surcharge for second homes and buy-to-let properties will increase. While buyers of main residences remain unaffected by this change, those purchasing an additional property will face an increased tax burden. Here’s how it works: 

Previous surcharge: Those buying a second property would pay an additional 3% on top of the standard Stamp Duty rates. 

New Surcharge: As of 31 October 2024, the surcharge will increase by 2% to 5%, adding further costs for buyers of second properties. 

Important note on timing 

If you're buying a property with the intention of making it your main residence, the timing of your purchase and sale matters. Even if the new property is intended to become your primary home, you’ll still pay the 5% surcharge unless you have completed the sale of your current home before the purchase completes on the new one. However, if your old home sells within 36 months, you can apply for a refund of the surcharge. 

This detail emphasises the importance of coordinating sale and purchase timelines closely if you’re planning a move to a new primary residence. 

Spring 2025 brings new Stamp Duty thresholds 

Another update to keep in mind is the upcoming change to Stamp Duty thresholds in Spring 2025. The current thresholds, which were raised in 2022 to help alleviate the tax burden on homebuyers, will revert to pre-2022 levels as follows: 

Current Stamp Duty Thresholds (until April 1, 2025)

Up to £125,000: 0% 

£125,001 to £250,000: 0% 

£250,001 to £925,000: 5% 

£925,001 to £1.5 million: 10% 

Above £1.5 million: 12% 

New Thresholds (effective April 1, 2025)

Up to £125,000: 0% 

£125,001 to £250,000: 2% 

£250,001 to £925,000: 5% 

£925,001 to £1.5 million: 10% 

Above £1.5 million: 12% 

The reduction in thresholds means that purchases between £125,001 and £250,000 will be subject to a 2% Stamp Duty rate, which is currently zero. This change could add a minimum of £2,500 to transactions within that range, so buyers might consider advancing their timeline if they aim to avoid this additional cost. 

Practical implications for second home buyers 

Increased costs for investors: The additional 5% surcharge on second homes from October 2024 will have a direct impact on buy-to-let investors and those purchasing holiday homes.  

Coordinating closely for main residence switches: If you’re buying a new property to be your main residence, it’s crucial to complete the sale of your current home before finalising the new purchase to avoid the surcharge. If the sale is delayed, remember that the refund window remains open for 36 months. 

Buying ahead of the spring threshold reversion: For buyers of primary residences or second homes in the lower property bands, purchasing before the changes come into play will help lock in the more favourable Stamp Duty thresholds. 

Budgeting for Stamp Duty: Stamp Duty is due within 14 days of property completion, so it’s essential to have the funds ready to avoid late payment penalties or interest. Work closely with your solicitor or conveyancer to ensure a smooth transaction and a clear understanding of your tax obligations. 

With these changes on the horizon, timing will be critical for anyone planning to purchase a second home or buy-to-let property. Understanding the new rates and thresholds can help you make informed decisions about when to buy and how to budget for additional costs. Consulting with a property expert or financial advisor can also help you navigate these changes and maximise your investment strategy.

 

Contact us

If you're looking to move home, contact your local Guild Member to help you on your journey.

 

2025 outlook: save on Stamp Duty before it's too late

Stamp Duty on second homes: all you need to know

Moving House in Northern Ireland: Cookstown

   
 

Newcastle Office
119-121 St George's Terrace
Jesmond
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE2 2DN
0191 240 3333

js@sarahmains.com

Low Fell Office
4 Beaconsfield Road
Low Fell
Gateshead
NE9 5EU
0191 487 8855

lfs@sarahmains.com

Whickham Office
8-10 The Square
Whickham
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE16 4JB 

0191 488 9999
ws@sarahmains.com

About Us

Sarah Mains Residential Estate Agent | Branches throughout Newcastle and Gateshead. 

Open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm Saturdays

2021 © Sarah Mains Residential Sales & Lettings. All rights reserved. Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Complaints Procedure | CMP CertificateDisclaimer
Sarah Mains Residential Ltd. Registered in England & Wales.  Company No: 04324202.  Registered Office Address: 8-10 The Square, Whickham, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE16 4JE . 
Sarah Mains Residential (Whickham) Ltd. Registered in England & Wales.  Company No: 05774118.  Registered Office Address: 8-10 The Square, Whickham, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE16 4JE . 
Sarah Mains Residential (Newcastle) Ltd. Registered in England & Wales.  Company No: 04919065.  Registered Office Address: 8-10 The Square, Whickham, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE16 4JE . 

Update Cookies Preferences