Everything you need to know about Stamp Duty
Upcoming changes to Stamp Duty
Changes to Stamp Duty thresholds will come into effect from 1st April 2025. For existing homeowners, the amount of Stamp Duty to pay will be:
Up to £250,000 | Zero |
The next £675,000 (the portion from £250,001 to £925,000) | 5% |
The next £575,000 (the portion from £925,001 to £1.5 million) | 10% |
The remaining amount (the portion above £1.5 million) | 12% |
For first-time buyers, the Stamp Duty discount you can claim will also change. If you complete on your first home after 1st April 2025, you'll pay no SDLT up to £300,000, and 5% SDLT on the portion from £300,001 to £500,000. You won't be able to claim relief for properties over £500,000.
Begin your buying journey now, to potentially save thousands on Stamp Duty.
What is Stamp Duty?
Stamp Duty (SDLT) is a Government tax that's charged when you buy a property in England and Northern Ireland, but you'll only need to pay it when the price of that property reaches a certain threshold.

Does everyone need to pay it?
Yes, when you buy a new home, it has to be legally registered with the Land Registry. To do this they need a certificate from the HMRC, which they will only release once you've paid the Stamp Duty on a home over £250,000. Your solicitor will transfer the funds to pay the Stamp Duty.
How much will you need to pay? | SDLT rate |
---|---|
Up to £250,000 | Zero |
The next £675,000 (the portion from £250,001 to £925,000) | 5% |
The next £575,000 (the portion from £925,001 to £1.5 million) | 10% |
The remaining amount (the portion above £1.5 million) | 12% |

Stamp Duty for first-time buyers
You can claim a discount (relief) if the property you buy is your first home. Until 31st March 2025, this means you’ll pay:
- no SDLT up to £425,000
- 5% SDLT on the portion from £425,001 to £625,000
You’re eligible if you and anyone else you’re buying with are first-time buyers. If the price is over £625,000, you can't claim the relief.
Follow the rules for people who’ve bought a home before. More detailed information can be found here on the Government's website.

What if I own more than one home?
As of 31st October 2025, you’ll have to pay 5% on top of SDLT rates if buying a new residential property means you’ll own more than one.
How much could I have to pay?
Use the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) Stamp Duty Land Tax calculator to work out how much tax you’ll pay.
What are the rules for Scotland and Wales?
Scotland and Wales each have different thresholds and rates to those used in England. The Scottish system also has extra relief for first time buyers, while in Wales there is no extra relief for time buyers.
Scotland: Land and Buildings Transaction Tax
As always, our experienced sales teams are happy to answer any questions you may have. Please search for your preferred development and get in touch - we'd love to hear from you.
*Additional Stamp Duty is due if any purchasers retain an existing residential property after acquiring a new Charles Church home. For full details, please refer to an independent legal advisor.