Stamp duty land tax increases 1 April 2016

February 22, 2016

From 1 April 2016, landlords who acquire new property to let as residential accommodation will be required to pay SDLT at significantly higher rates. The increase is also expected to apply to private householders who buy a second home.

The new rates will be:

 

 

Purchase price banding

Current rates

New rates from April 2016

Up to £40,000

0%

0%

£40,001 to £125,000

0%

3%*

£125,001 to £250,000

2%

5%

£250,001 to £925,000

5%

8%

£925,001 to £1,500,000

10%

13%

Over £1,500,000

12%

15%

 

*SDLT rates apply to the nominated bandings apart from properties purchased over £40,000 and up to £125,000 which will pay 3% on the total purchase price from 1 April 2016. Published information from the Treasury on these SDLT changes is thin on the ground, but informed opinion would seem to indicate that the additional 3% charge will not apply if you replace your main residence or if you are a significant corporate or fund investor in residential property.

A property purchased for £275,000 that is subject to the new rates will see an increase in SDLT from £3,750 (on property purchased prior to 1 April 2016), to £12,000 if purchased after 1 April 2016.

If you are presently negotiating to buy a new residential property for letting, or a second home, make sure that your advisors complete before the end of March 2016.

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