As of 1st April 2025, new Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) rules have come into effect, and here at Harrison Hardie Estate Agents, we want to make sure that both buyers and sellers in the Cotswolds are fully informed about how these changes could impact your property journey. Whether you’re looking to buy your dream home or sell your current property, it’s important to understand how the latest adjustments to SDLT will affect you—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What’s Changing?
The recent changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax bring significant shifts for both buyers and sellers. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
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The Nil Rate Threshold Has Dropped:
Previously, properties under £250,000 were exempt from SDLT. However, from April 2025, the threshold has been reduced to £125,000. This means buyers of properties above £125,000 will now face SDLT charges, which could add to the total cost of purchasing a home, especially for first-time buyers or those looking at lower-priced properties.
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First-Time Buyer Relief Adjustments:
For first-time buyers, the maximum property price eligible for SDLT relief has reduced. The relief threshold has decreased from £425,000 to £300,000, and the maximum purchase price eligible for relief has dropped from £625,000 to £500,000. This means first-time buyers could face higher tax bills, but it also means more targeted help for those on tighter budgets.
How Do These Changes Affect Buyers?
If you’re in the market to buy a property in the Cotswolds, these changes are bound to affect your budget and your expectations. Buyers purchasing homes above the new £125,000 threshold (or £300,000 for first-time buyers) will now need to factor in the added cost of Stamp Duty.
As house prices continue to rise in the Cotswolds, you’ll want to be proactive in your property search and factor in the new tax costs when making your decision. While it’s important to adjust your budget for these changes, we’re here to help you find the perfect property—whether it’s your first home, a family retreat, or an investment property.
For first-time buyers, the change in relief thresholds could be significant. If you’ve been eyeing a property just above the old relief limits, now is the time to act before the impact of these changes takes hold. Our team at Harrison Hardie can help you navigate this adjustment, ensuring that you still find a property that fits your budget.
How Do These Changes Affect Sellers?
For sellers, these changes are an important factor in understanding how buyers will approach the market. If your property is priced above the new SDLT thresholds, the added tax could influence a buyer’s willingness to commit to the purchase. While the tax is an additional cost to buyers, it’s important to recognise that demand for property in the Cotswolds remains high, and pricing your property competitively can still generate strong interest.
If you’re looking to sell, now might be an ideal time to put your property on the market. Buyers are currently trying to complete their purchases before these changes have a full impact, so by listing your property now, you may tap into this window of increased activity. This could mean more offers, quicker sales, and the chance to move forward with your plans.
At Harrison Hardie, we have extensive local knowledge of the Cotswolds property market and can help you make informed decisions about pricing your property competitively in light of the new tax rules. Our goal is to help you secure the best price for your home while managing any potential challenges these changes might bring.
Why Choose Harrison Hardie Estate Agents?
As a trusted name in the Cotswolds property market, we pride ourselves on offering personalised advice tailored to your needs. Whether you're buying or selling, our expert team is here to help you navigate these new tax rules with confidence.
We understand the local market intimately, and we’re passionate about matching buyers to the right properties and helping sellers get the best possible price for their homes. The changes to SDLT are just one piece of the puzzle, but with our expertise, we can ensure you make the best choices moving forward.
Get in Touch with Us Today
If you’re a buyer looking to purchase a property in the Cotswolds or a seller hoping to maximise your sale, we’re here to guide you through these changes. Contact us today for expert advice and support:
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Bourton-on-the-Water Office: 01451 822977
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Moreton-in-Marsh Office: 01608 651000
At Harrison Hardie Estate Agents, we’re here to make the property buying and selling process as smooth as possible, even with the new Stamp Duty rules. Whether you're ready to make a move or just need some advice, reach out to us today—we look forward to helping you achieve your property goals!
Let Harrison Hardie Estate Agents be your trusted partner in the property market, helping you stay ahead of the changes and make the most of the current market opportunities.
