Understanding UK Stamp Duty (SDLT)

Stamp Duty Land Tax applies to property purchases in England and Northern Ireland. The tax is progressive — you only pay the higher rate on the portion above each threshold, not on the entire purchase price.

Current SDLT Bands (2024-25)

• Up to £250,000 — 0%
• £250,001 to £925,000 — 5%
• £925,001 to £1,500,000 — 10%
• Over £1,500,000 — 12%

First-Time Buyer Relief

First-time buyers pay no SDLT on properties up to £425,000 and a reduced 5% rate on the portion between £425,001 and £625,000. Properties over £625,000 do not qualify for this relief.

Additional Property Surcharge

Buying a second home or buy-to-let property incurs an extra 3% on top of the standard rates across all bands. Non-UK residents pay an additional 2% surcharge. These surcharges stack — a non-resident buying a second property pays 5% extra.