Stamp Duty changes coming into effect on 1 April 2025 are set to shake up the property market. While December is typically quieter for property transactions, buyer demand—especially among first-time buyers (FTBs)—is surging as the deadline looms.
What’s Changing?
The Stamp Duty cuts announced in the 2022 Mini-Budget will end on 31 March 2025. From 1 April 2025, thresholds will return to pre-September 2022 levels:
- FTBs will pay Stamp Duty on homes over £300,000 (currently £425,000). Relief will apply only up to £500,000 (down from £625,000).
- Home-movers will see their tax-free threshold drop from £250,000 to £125,000.
Revised Rates:
- 2% for £125,001–£250,000
- 5% for £250,001–£925,000
- 10% for £925,001–£1.5 million
- 12% above £1.5 million
Additionally, the second-home surcharge has increased from 3% to 5%, further impacting buyers.
Who Will Be Affected?
The impact on FTBs will be significant, with the proportion paying Stamp Duty set to double to 40%.
An FTB buying a £310,000 home will pay £500 after April (currently nothing).
An FTB purchasing a £425,000 property will face a Stamp Duty bill of £6,250 (currently £0).
Home-movers will also feel the squeeze:
Stamp Duty on a £500,000 property will rise from £12,500 to £15,000.
Market Implications
Regions like Bassetlaw, with many properties in the mid-to-high price brackets, will feel these changes acutely. Buyers are rushing to complete purchases before the deadline, while sellers may become more flexible to secure quick sales.
This creates opportunities for FTBs and cash buyers, who may find themselves in strong negotiating positions as sellers aim to avoid delays and complicated chains.
How Nicholsons Can Help You Beat the Deadline
With transactions often taking months, acting now is critical. Nicholsons Estate Agents is here to help you navigate these changes and secure your move with ease.
SecureMove for Speed and Certainty: Our innovative SecureMove method ensures sales are legally binding early, reducing fall-through risks and keeping transactions on track.
Expert Guidance: With years of experience in the Bassetlaw market, we’ll connect you with trusted conveyancers and provide clear advice to streamline the process.
Best-in-Class Marketing: Our use of Matterport virtual tours, professional videography, and social media dominance ensures maximum exposure for your property, attracting motivated buyers quickly.
Act Now—Don’t Miss the Deadline
Time is running out to make your move before Stamp Duty increases. Contact Nicholsons Estate Agents today to get ahead of the changes and save thousands.
Share this with someone planning to move—it could help them avoid unnecessary costs!
For a free property valuation, contact us today by clicking on the banner below or call us in Retford on 01777 808777 or in Worksop on 01909 492299.
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Sources:
• Rightmove
• Zoopla House Price Index, November 2024