Yes but only until March 2025. It doesn’t only affect first time buyers, it affects all buyers. I couldn’t add a link so here is the rundown:
In September 2022, the Government announced a temporary increase to the thresholds above which SDLT must be paid. The temporary increase is due to end on 31 March 2025, meaning that any transaction which completes thereafter will be subject to the increased rates of Stamp Duty. While this date might seem far away, buyers and sellers alike ought to be aware that an average residential property transaction takes between 12 and 16 weeks to complete, but can, in certain circumstances take much longer. Typically, these circumstances are generally only uncovered during a transaction. It is also worth bearing in mind that this timeframe does not take into consideration the time it may take to attract a buyer from the date the property is first listed.
From 31 March 2025 the Stamp Duty rates on a standard residential purchase of a freehold property for an individual that is UK resident and replacing a main residence will be as follows:
0% up to £125,000
2% above £125,000 and up to £250,000
5% above £250,000 and up to £925,000
10% above £925,000 and up to £1,500,000
12% above £1,500,000
On 31 March 2025, there are several changes coming into effect, and it is currently unclear whether any further amendments will be made to Stamp Duty between now and then.
- The nil rate threshold which is currently £250,000 will return to the previous level of £125,000.
- The nil rate threshold for first time buyers which is currently £425,000 will return to the previous level of £300,000.
- The maximum purchase price for which First-Time Buyers Relief can be claimed is currently £625,000 and will return to the previous level of £500,000.
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Hope this helps x