Our Blog
Stamp Duty Land Tax: Everything You Need to Know
Buying a property is one of the most significant financial commitments many people will ever make. Alongside the purchase price itself, there are several additional costs to consider, and one of the most important is Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT).If you're purchasing...
Deed of Variation: A practical guide to changing a Will after death in the UK
When a loved one dies, the terms of their will (or under the intestacy rules if there is no will) will determine how their estate is distributed. Whilst a carefully drafted will can offer clarity, even the most thoughtful estate planning cannot always anticipate...
Understanding Property Searches: Essential Due Diligence for UK Homebuyers
When purchasing a property in the UK, the excitement of finding your dream home can sometimes overshadow the crucial legal groundwork required to protect your investment. Property searches form an essential part of the conveyancing process, providing vital information...
What Does Being an Executor Of A Will Actually Involve?
Being named as an executor in someone's will is both an honour and a significant responsibility. It means the person who passed away trusted you to carry out their final wishes and manage their affairs with care. If you've recently been asked or discovered you're an...
What First Home Buyers in the UK Need to Know
Buying your first home feels exciting and scary at the same time. Don't worry - it's easier when you know what to expect. From saving your deposit to navigating government perks, here’s your essential first home buying guide from our expert conveyancing team at...
Office of Public Guardian increases LPA fee
Just a quick note to let you know that any Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) not yet lodged with the Office of Public Guardian, will see an increase of £10 to their application fee. This was previously £82 (No VAT) and is now £92 (No VAT). ...
Is Your Property Registered with Land Registry? What UK Property Owners Need to Know
If you own property in England or Wales, you've likely heard of the Land Registry – but do you know if your property is registered with them? This seemingly simple question can have significant implications for property owners, buyers, and sellers alike. The process...
Trusts – Genius Tax Planning or Unnecessary Expense?
Protecting your family home and assets is smart. But so too is tax compliance. Why Trusts exist A trust is a legal arrangement where you (the "settlor") hand your assets to someone else (the "trustees") to look after for the benefit of other people (the...
You have Got a Will – But You Want to Make Changes. What Now?
Most people know that having a will is vital. It helps wrap up your affairs, provide for your loved ones, and ensure that your wishes are followed after your death. If you already have a will – excellent. But as life changes, so might your wishes. Whether it’s a...
Why Your Solicitor Asks for ID – Understanding Anti-Money Laundering Requirements
If you've ever instructed a solicitor and been asked to provide a passport or a bank statement, or other personal documents, you might have wondered: Why all the red tape? The answer lies in legal compliance—specifically, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations, which...
A will is an important life document, irrespective of your age
If you’re over 18, you should consider writing and regularly reviewing a will. It’s one of the most important things you can do for your family.
Thinking of buying or selling a property?
Property conveyancing and law has been running through our veins for four generations. We are locally based with exceptional knowledge of all types of residential and commercial properties in the area. Sometimes we have dealt with the same property multiple times.
Can you get a Stamp Duty refund?
In certain circumstances, yes.
For example, if you purchase a new home before selling your existing main residence, you may initially have to pay the higher rate for additional properties.
If you then sell your previous main home within three years, you may be able to reclaim the 3% surcharge.
Refund applications can be submitted through the government’s official website.
Can Stamp Duty be reduced?
While Stamp Duty cannot usually be avoided entirely, there may be legitimate ways to reduce the amount payable.
This includes:
- Negotiating a lower purchase price
- Separating the value of removable fixtures and fittings from the property price
- Ensuring you claim any available reliefs, such as first-time buyer relief.
We can help ensure that the correct SDLT amount is calculated and that you do not pay more tax than necessary.
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