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).

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.

Address

77 North Street
Ripon
North Yorkshire HG4 1DP

Email

mail@hb-law.co.uk

Phone

01765 602156

Fax

01765 690018