Stamp duty holiday

Landlords

Posted in Jul 21 , 2020

Further to our recent blog we have decided to give further guidance to our new home buyers on stamp duty relaxation by Govt. to make them better understand,

There has been much excitement here at Cribs Estates Ltd following the Chancellor’s announcement that stamp duty has been abolished for properties under £500,000 in England and Northern Ireland.

This is excellent news for the property market in UK , so we wanted to update you on everything you need to know if you are thinking of purchasing a property in UK.

What is Stamp Duty?

First up, let’s go back to basics for a moment with a concise explanation of stamp duty to bring you up to speed. When you’re buying a property, the term Stamp Duty will almost certainly come up and should be budgeted for in the early stages as you’re looking at your finances. So, historically, Stamp Duty has always been an important factor for home buyers.

In England, Stamp Duty was actually introduced way back in the late 1600s, and it was initially a way for the monarchy at the time to raise much-needed funds to fill their war chests as they fought battles against France.

While we may not be at war with France, Stamp Duty still exists in the property sector, and it’s easy to see why, as it enables the Government to swell its coffers by billions of pounds each year.

So, whatever the history or the rights and wrongs of it, Stamp Duty has always been an important factor for home buyers.

Who Pays Stamp Duty?

The rules state that Stamp Duty must be paid when someone “buys a property or land over a certain price in England and Northern Ireland”. That “certain price” has previously been £125,000.

Stamp Duty is payable when you buy a freehold property, “buy or extend an existing freehold property”, buy through shared ownership, or if you are “transferred land or property in exchange for property”.

But, there have always been exceptions. For example, first-time buyers didn’t have to pay anything on the first £300,000 on the price of their new home. If the property price was above that, but below £500,000 they would have paid Stamp Duty of five per cent on the proportion above £300,000.

What’s changed?

Previously, you would have paid Stamp Duty on properties above £125,000, with the amount payable being calculated based on varying thresholds above that price.

Under the new rules announced by the Government, Stamp Duty has been abolished for properties under £500,000.

Above that figure, and you’ll pay five per cent for the next £425,000 and then 10 per cent on the next £575,000, then 12 per cent for the amount above £1.5m.

The good news is that these new rules apply to both first-time buyers and people who have owned property before.

The Chancellor himself predicts that on average, savings will be in the region of £4,500.

This move by the Government will, without doubt, get the housing market moving again, in that buyers will have more money in their pockets that they can potentially use as deposits.

Investors looking to buy a second home will also benefit because the Stamp Duty holiday will mean those who purchase through limited companies will be exempt, again, up to £500,000. But, the Government has chosen to retain the three per cent surcharge on these types of purchase.

When will the stamp duty holiday happen?

The new Stamp Duty rules apply to residential properties that are purchased between July 8, 2020 and March 31, 2021 (inclusive). Currently, the changes are not intended to be permanent as the Government has stated that after the Stamp Duty holiday period, previous rates will resume, although this of course could change.

How much will home buyers save?

Your savings could be in the thousands! If you’re buying a house in Wimbledon that is less than £500,000, then you will pay zero Stamp Duty.

Compare this to just a few days ago when you could have been hit with a Stamp Duty bill costing you thousands. For example, under the previous system, if you purchased a house worth £175,000, then you would have paid Stamp Duty of £1,000.

If the property was £400,000, then you would have expected to pay about £10,000 in Stamp Duty. Now, neither will be subject to Stamp Duty, so it’s happy days for you!

According to the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, this will help nine out of 10 buyers.

The changes by the Government have been welcomed by the team here at Cribs Estates Ltd , because we know that it will potentially be a significant help to you in your next property purchase, so our team are on standby to help you find your dream home.

Call us on 0203 441 1571 or email us at info@cribsestates.co.uk and we will be delighted to speak with you!

Shared on social media

Comments

Enquiry form

Latest Blogs

1, 2, 3 Bedroom House for Sale in Sutton: Buying Guide?

Many people are searching for a 1, 2, 3 bedroom house for sale in Sutton, probably trying to figure out what makes more sense for their situation. But, here’s an honest answer:In Sutton, 1-bedroom homes are best for affordability, 2-bedroom houses offer the best balance for most buyers, and 3-bedroom homes are ideal for long-term living or families. In most cases, we see buyers choose 2-bedroom properties because they give flexibility without stretching the budget too far.The challenge is not finding options, it’s choosing the right one.Is Sutton Property Market In Demand?Compared to central areas, properties in this location are in higher demand. Most homes fall within the £300,000 to £500,000 range, with smaller properties starting at a lower price and larger family homes reaching higher values, depending on location and condition. The area attracts first-time buyers, families, and investors due to easy transportation links, schools, and affordability. 1 Bedroom Houses in Sutton: A Starting PointA 1-bedroom house for sale in Sutton is usually the most affordable way to get onto the property ladder. For many buyers, it’s the first step into ownership.It works well if your priority is keeping costs manageable. Mortgage requirements are generally easier, and ongoing maintenance is simpler compared to larger homes.However, this option comes with limitations. Space becomes an issue sooner than expected, especially if your lifestyle changes. It can also be harder to resell compared to larger properties, simply because the pool of buyers is smaller.For this reason, a 1-bedroom property often works best as a short-term step or an investment, rather than a long-term home.2 Bedroom Houses in Sutton: Flexible OptionA 2 bedroom house for sale in Sutton is a practical and balanced choice. It gives you enough flexibility without increasing the financial pressure.That extra room can be used as a home office, guest space, or simply give you breathing room as your needs get bigger. This is especially important for buyers who are planning but are not ready to commit to the cost of a larger home.Another key advantage is resale demand. Two-bedroom properties attract a wider range of buyers, which makes them easier to sell later on.This is why many buyers start by considering a 1-bedroom property, but eventually move towards a 2-bedroom once they think about long-term value.3 Bedroom Houses in Sutton: More SpaceA 3 bedroom house for sale in Sutton is usually chosen by families or buyers who are planning for the long term.The biggest advantage is obviously more space. It allows for a more comfortable living setup and reduces the likelihood of needing to move again in the near future. For families, this becomes a necessity rather than a choice.However, the financial commitment is higher. Not just in terms of the purchase price, but also ongoing costs and responsibilities.This option makes the most sense if you are confident about your long-term plans and want a property that can grow with you.1 vs 2 vs 3 Bedroom Houses in Sutton (Quick Comparison)Let’s see a quick comparison to analyse which house is suitable for which individual. Property TypePrice RangeBest ForLimitation1 Bedroom£200k - £300kFirst-time buyersLimited space2 Bedroom£300k - £450kMost buyersSlightly higher cost3 Bedroom£400k - £600k+FamiliesHigher commitmentHow to Decide What’s Right for You?Most buyers get stuck trying to find the “perfect” option, but the better approach is to focus on what fits your situation today and still works tomorrow.If your budget is tight and your goal is simply to get onto the property ladder, a 1-bedroom property can make sense. But if there’s even a small chance your needs will change in the next few years, it’s worth considering a 2-bedroom instead.For buyers planning long-term or already thinking about family needs, a 3-bedroom property offers stability and avoids the cost and stress of moving again later.In Sutton, this decision often comes down to flexibility. That’s why 2-bedroom homes are considered a safer option, not just in price, but in practicality.Hidden Costs Buyers Often OverlookThis is where most buyers don’t focus much, as they underestimate the additional expenses involved, which can affect overall affordability. These may include:Stamp Duty (depending on eligibility and thresholds)Legal and conveyancing feesProperty surveysMortgage-related costsMoving expensesPlanning for these early helps avoid last-minute financial pressure.Is Sutton a Good Place to Buy Property?Yes, Sutton continues to attract buyers. It’s accessible to London with a quieter, more residential environment. Also, its transport links, schools, and everyday amenities make it suitable for both individuals and families. The property prices here are still relatively more accessible compared to nearby areas, which supports ongoing demand.This combination makes Sutton a stable choice for both homeowners and investors.Investment Perspective: What Works Best?From an investment point of view, different property types serve different purposes.One-bedroom homes are easier to enter at a lower cost and can attract steady rental demand. Three-bedroom properties can generate higher rent but often come with higher initial investment and fewer potential tenants.Normally, 2-bedroom properties offer the best balance. They appeal to a wider tenant base and tend to perform well both in rental demand and resale value.Make the Right Decision with Cribs EstatesFinding a 1, 2, or 3 bedroom house for sale in Sutton is relatively easy. The difficult part is knowing which option is right for you.At Cribs Estates, we focus on helping you make that decision with clarity. We provide realistic pricing insights, help you compare options based on your goals, and guide you through the process so you avoid common mistakes.Our team makes sure the help is not just to buy a property, but to make sure it’s the right one for your situation.FAQs About Houses for Sale in SuttonWhat is the average price of a house in Sutton?Most properties fall between £300,000 and £500,000, depending on size and location.Is a 2-bedroom house better than a 1-bedroom?For most buyers, yes. It offers more flexibility and better long-term value.Is Sutton good for property investment?Yes. Strong demand and relative affordability make it a reliable choice for investors.

How Long Does It Take to Move House in the UK?

Like most people, you would probably expect it would take around 6-8 weeks to move house in the UK, right? The answer will shock you! Normally, for buyers are sellers in the UK, it takes around 3-6 months and sometimes longer to move out. It’s not because of the moving itself, but the actual processes happening before this time. Let’s find out how long does it take to move house in the UK. The Honest Answer: There’s No Fixed TimelineThis is the part many people don’t hear early enough. There is no single timeline for moving house. That’s because it’s not one process; it’s several processes happening at the same time, including legal checks, mortgage approvals, surveys, and coordination between buyers and sellers.Each part depends on someone else doing their job on time. That’s why even simple moves can take longer than expected.What’s The Timeline To Move House in the UK?To give you a clearer picture, here’s how it usually looks:Best case (rare): Around 6 to 8 weeksThis only happens when there’s no chain, and everything moves quickly.Average case: Around 12 to 20 weeksThis is what most people experience.Worst case: 6 months or moreThis occurs when delays, issues, or chain problems arise.Understanding this early helps manage expectations and avoid unnecessary stress.Why Moving House Feels So SlowOne of the biggest frustrations is not just the time itself, but also how it feels. You’re not constantly busy with the process. Instead, you’re often waiting for updates, chasing responses, unsure what’s happening next.Days or even weeks can pass with little visible progress, and that’s why it feels slow.Where Delays Actually HappenIf you break it down, delays tend to happen in a few key stages.After your offer is accepted, the process moves into conveyancing, which is where most of the time is spent. This includes: legal checks on the property, searches with local authorities, reviewing contracts, and communication between solicitors.At the same time, mortgage approvals and surveys are being completed. So, each step depends on another party responding, which is why delays build up.What Does a Property Chain Mean?It is one of the biggest reasons why moving house takes longer than expected. A property chain means multiple buyers and sellers are linked together.For example, you’re buying from someone, and they’re buying another property, and that seller is also moving. If one person in the chain is delayed, everyone is delayed.You might be ready to move, but you’re still waiting for someone else.Things That Can Slow Down Your MoveSome delays are more common than others, which may include slow responses from solicitors, missing paperwork or documents, and issues found during surveys, mortgage delays, and renegotiations after inspections. Even small issues can add weeks to the timeline if they’re not handled quickly.How You Can Speed Up the ProcessWhilst you can’t control everything, there are things you can do to avoid unnecessary delays.Choose a solicitor who communicates clearly and responds quicklyPrepare your documents earlyRespond to requests without delayStay in regular contact with your agent and solicitorThese types of small actions on your side can make a noticeable difference.What Most People Get Wrong About Moving TimeA common mistake is thinking that once an offer is accepted, the process is nearly done.In reality, that’s just the beginning. Another misunderstanding is assuming that timelines are fixed. Many people plan around expected dates, only to face delays.Understanding that moving house is a dependent process helps you stay realistic and avoid frustration.How Cribs Estates Helps You Move with Less StressWhilst no one can remove every delay, and predict how long does it take to move house, but the right estate agent can make the process smoother.At Cribs Estates, we focus on keeping communication clear between all parties, following up on progress to avoid unnecessary delays, and helping you understand what’s happening at each stage.Our role is not just to list or find property, but to guide you through the process with clarity, so you’re not left guessing. Speak to our estate agent today for free.

Guaranteed Rent Property Management: Is It Worth It for Landlords?

Being a landlord, if you have ever had a tenant missing out on rent or a property sitting empty for weeks, you would already agree on one thing: rental income is not always predictable.This is the reason why landlords are now shifting towards guaranteed rent property management. It’s not because of higher returns, but the certainty of getting the rent each month. But does this approach actually work out? And is it right for your case? Let’s find. What’s The Real Problem?On paper, the property looks like a steady income stream. In reality, you are dealing with:Late or missed rent paymentsVoid periods between tenantsUnexpected repairsConstant follow-ups and communicationAnd when rent stops, everything else doesn’t. Mortgage payments, bills, and responsibilities continue. That’s where the stress comes from, not the property itself, but the unpredictability.What Does Guaranteed Rent Property Management Mean?With guaranteed rent property management, you receive a fixed monthly income, regardless of whether the property is occupied or whether tenants pay on time. The management company will take the responsibility of tenants, handling rent collection, and managing day-to-day property. So instead of dealing with multiple moving parts, you have one agreement and one consistent payment.Why Landlords Are Switching to Guaranteed Rent?For landlords, it’s no longer just about maximising rent. They want less risk.Changes in the rental market, including stricter regulations and longer eviction processes, have made landlords more cautious.Choosing the guaranteed rent schemes in the UK helps them to get a predictable monthly income without any void periods. What’s more lucrative for them is less involvement with the tenants and handling fewer managerial issues. Landlords are aware that they will receive slightly less rent than the absolute market peak, but they also know they will not be doing the heavy lifting. For many landlords, the question here is simple: Is maximum rent worth the risk and stress? Or is consistent income more valuable?Guaranteed Rent vs Traditional LettingHere’s how it compares in real terms:FactorSelf-ManagedLet-OnlyGuaranteed RentIncome stabilityLowMediumHighVoid periodsYesYes NoTenant involvementHighMediumNoneTime requiredHighMediumLowStress LevelHighMediumLowThis is how most landlords are making their decision, not based on theory, but on how much time and uncertainty they’re willing to deal with.Who Guaranteed Rent Is Actually ForIt works best for landlords who:Want predictable, fixed rental incomeDon’t want to deal with tenants directlyLive abroad or far from the propertyHave experienced rent delays or problem tenants beforePrefer a hands-off investmentHowever, it will not work for the landlords who:Want to maximise every pound of rentPrefer full control over tenant selectionAre comfortable managing everything themselvesThe key is to make sure you understand what you want or take advise form a reputable management company like Cribs Estates to make the right decision.What Happens Behind the ScenesNew landlords who think it’s an easy task may not realise the work involved to keep the property running smoothly. When you choose to work with a property management company for a guaranteed rent scheme, you get assurance of many things. This includes tenant sourcing, rent collection, maintenance, and most importantly, keeping everything compliant with legal requirements. Juggling day-to-day communication and managing all tasks usually takes up the most time and causes the most stress if you are doing it by yourself. The Risks You AvoidThe real value starts to show when there is no risk of missing payments, having void periods resulting in income gaps, disputes with tenants, and miscommunications that can result in uncertainty in monthly cash flow. In the end, you need to protect your income and reduce the stress instead of thinking about convenience. This is where a reputable company helps you get the most. Get Maximum Benefits With Cribs EstatesIn Cribs Estates our approach to the guaranteed rent property management aims at making your property work for you without the usual stress. We ensure you get a fixed, reliable monthly income, and the tenant turnaround time is balanced. With a structured system for rent and maintenance issues, we take care of all the ongoing and future compliance support issues as well. Why is it important for you? It gives you control of your property. The majority of landlords we work with don’t want more work; they want less risk and more certainty, which is exactly what we provide. Speak to our agent today for a free consultation.

Block Managing Agents: Do You Really Need One?

If you recently owned or started managing your small building with a few flats, it’s easy to think you can handle everything yourself. On paper, it will not look complicated.But this is exactly where most landlords get it wrong.Managing a building with multiple flats is not just about collecting payments or arranging the odd repair. It involves legal responsibility, financial management, and dealing with people, all at the same time.That’s why many owners eventually start looking for managing agents for small blocks of flats or professional block managing agents.The real question is not if you can manage it? It’s about spending the time that is worth spending on building a portfolio.Small Blocks Are Not as Simple as They LookWe hear a common assumption from our clients in the beginning: It's only 3-5 flats, how hard can it be to manage them? In reality, small blocks can be more challenging than large ones. Why? Because everything is shared:Communal areasMaintenance costsResponsibilities between leaseholdersEven something simple like fixing a hallway light can turn into a discussion about cost, responsibility, and timing.What Happens When You Try to Manage It YourselfMost landlords begin to self-manage, which initially seems manageable. Then things start to stack up, and you find yourself: Chasing service charge paymentsOrganising repairs between multiple ownersDealing with complaints or disagreementsTrying to understand lease termsHandling paperwork and complianceIt quickly stops being a side task and becomes something that needs constant attention. And another issue that arises is the dependency of everything on you. The Legal Side Most Owners UnderestimateThis is where things get serious. When you’re responsible for a block, you are not just organising tasks; you are legally accountable. This can include:Ensuring building insurance is in placeMaintaining safe communal areasFollowing fire safety guidanceMeeting leasehold obligationsMany owners don’t realise how much responsibility sits with them until something goes wrong. And when it does, it can quickly become expensive.Where Problems Usually StartService charges seem straightforward: collect money and pay for maintenance. But in practice, this is one of the biggest pressure points. Common issues include:Leaseholders not paying on timeDisagreements over what is “fair”Unclear budgetingLack of transparencyEven one unpaid contribution can create tension across the entire block. And if things aren’t handled properly, it can damage relationships between residents and affect the building overall.Repairs and Maintenance Are ExpensiveWith a single property, you make decisions quickly. In a block of flats, it’s different. Questions start to come up:Who approves the work?Which contractor should be used?How is the cost shared?What if someone disagrees?Delays are common, and small issues can become bigger problems if not handled early. This is where many landlords realise that managing a block is not just about fixing things, it’s about coordinating people.Disputes Between LeaseholdersThis is rarely talked about, but it’s one of the biggest challenges. You may have to deal with:Noise complaintsDisagreements over costsMaintenance responsibilitiesCommunication breakdownsAs the person managing the building, you often become the middle point. And without experience, these situations can become stressful very quickly.What Block Managing Agents Actually DoThis is where block managing agents step in. Not as a luxury, but as a structured way to manage everything properly. A good managing agent will:Collect and manage service chargesHandle maintenance and contractor coordinationEnsure compliance with legal requirementsCommunicate with all leaseholdersKeep records organised and transparentCost vs Risk: Is It Worth Doing It Yourself?This is the decision most landlords eventually face. Yes, hiring managing agents for small blocks of flats comes with a cost.But compare that with:Time spent managing issuesRisk of legal mistakesDisputes between residentsDelayed maintenanceFinancial mismanagementIn many cases, the cost of getting it wrong is higher than the cost of getting it managed properly.Stay in Control with Cribs EstatesCribs Estates work with landlords and freeholders who want their block to run smoothly, without the constant back-and-forth. Our team assists you in structuring service charges collection and tracking, coordinates repairs and maintenance on time, keeps the communication clear between all parties, and ensures compliance requirements are met. The goal is to remove the stress that comes with it. Speak today to discuss your project.

Property search

Residential Lettings

Residential Sales

HMO

Commercial Sales Commercial Lettings

Price

Min price

Max price

Number of Bedrooms

Min bedrooms

Max bedrooms

Find properties