Stamp duty changes- residential property

In his recent Summer Statement, Rishi Sunak announced changes to the nil rate band of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) to be applied in England and Northern Ireland.

This was followed by announcements from the Scottish and Welsh regional assemblies who set the rates in Scotland and Wales.

Here is a brief summary of the regional changes aimed at stimulating the UK property market. In all cases rates will revert to previous levels 31 March 2021.

England and Northern Ireland

From 8 July 2020, if you purchase a residential property you will only pay SDLT on the amount you pay above £500,000. This applies whether or not you have purchased a property before – it is not restricted to first time buyers.

Scotland

From 15 July 2020, if you purchase a residential property in Scotland you will only pay the Land and Building Transaction Tax on the amount you pay above £250,000.

Wales

From 27 July 2020, if you purchase a residential property in Wales you will only pay the Land Transaction Tax on the amount you pay above £250,000.

In all regions, it is presumed that buyers of second homes and buy-to-let residential properties will still pay the additional stamp duty charge.