The last few months have been turbulent, to say the least. And if you’re anything like me, then you’ve probably lost track of the countless bailouts, measures and financial packages that have been announced in order to get the UK’s economy back on track.
However, one measure that was announced yesterday by Chancellor Rishi Sunak as part of the Summer Statement is likely to stick firmly in the mind, particularly with those looking to apply for a mortgage and move home: the cut to stamp duty.
Prior to the announcement, stamp duty on the purchase of a main residence cost £1,500 on properties valued at £200,000; £5,000 on properties valued at £300,000; £10,000 on properties valued at £400,000, and £15,000 on properties valued at £500,000.
As of 8 July, stamp duty no longer applies to residential properties with a value up to £500,000 * – a move that is thought to affect up to 90% of UK homeowners. Not only that, but properties over £500,000 will also attract a much lower level of stamp duty, too.
It’s important to remember that this isn’t something that will stay around forever. In fact, it’s a stamp duty holiday – and one that will only last until 31 March 2021. The announcement, of course, has been designed to get the economy (and homeowners) moving, and with rates so attractively low – or non-existent in the case of purchases up to £500,000 – Complete Mortgages expects there to be a flurry of activity over the coming months.
It’s also important to note that, in real terms, the stamp duty holiday actually increases a homeowner’s purchasing power by effectively boosting their deposit. For example, if you’re looking to move home and your budget’s £500,000, then the £15,000 saved in tax can be used to increase the amount you’re putting down on the property. Rather than pay 3% in tax, you can increase your deposit by 3% – a double win that will be particularly welcomed by those looking for high loan to value mortgages.
Ironically, as a Guildford mortgage broker that has experienced its busiest June ever, we haven’t seen anything but a flurry of activity during the lockdown period. Still, we applaud the Chancellor’s bold move and we expect those applying for a mortgage in the UK will be equally appreciative.
So, the countdown is on. Will you take advantage of it?
UK homeowners now have nine months to benefit from the stamp duty holiday and reduce their property tax bill. If you’re looking to get a mortgage over the coming months, Complete Mortgages can help. Contact us on 01483 238280 or email info@complete-mortgages.co.uk to begin your mortgage application.
* the 3% higher rate for purchases of additional dwellings (including buy to lets) applies on top of revised standard rates above for the period 8 July 2020 to 31 March 2021.
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