Stamp Duty in 2025 – what’s being talked about and what it means locally

There’s a lot of noise about “stamp duty changes” right now. The key point – nothing has been decided yet. Government is reportedly considering alternatives to today’s one-off SDLT – but these are proposals not policy.

The headlines – proposal stage only

• Potential shift away from buyer-paid SDLT toward new property taxes on higher-value homes – details still being worked up.

• Council tax reform is also being discussed – again, not confirmed.

• Talk of extra charges on £1.5m+ homes has circulated in the press – still speculation.

Budget date set: The Autumn Budget has been announced for 26 November 2025 – we expect clarity then and will confirm exactly what is changing – or staying the same – as soon as the Chancellor speaks.

What hasn’t changed today

• The current SDLT system still applies across England and Northern Ireland.

• Buyers should continue budgeting using today’s rates until HM Treasury publishes firm changes.

What this could mean around Bishop’s Stortford – if any of it happens

• Sellers of homes above £500k could see a different tax burden – the market may price this in.

• First-time buyers could benefit if large upfront SDLT bills are reduced – depends on final design.

• Investors should model yields with today’s rules then re-check once the Budget confirms the direction.