Answers · UK 2025/26
Do I pay stamp duty if I am a first-time buyer?
In England and Northern Ireland, first-time buyers pay no SDLT on the first £300,000 of a property up to £500,000, then 5% between £300,001 and £500,000. Properties above £500,000 get no relief — you pay standard rates from £125,000 upward. Different rules apply in Scotland (LBTT) and Wales (LTT).
Full answer
First-time buyer SDLT relief in England and Northern Ireland from 1 April 2025: 0% on the portion up to £300,000, 5% on the portion £300,001–£500,000. To qualify, every buyer named on the deed must be a genuine first-time buyer (never owned UK or overseas residential property), the property must cost £500,000 or less, and you must intend to live there. Example: a £400,000 first home costs £5,000 SDLT (5% × £100,000). A £350,000 first home costs £2,500. Above £500,000 the relief is lost and standard rates apply: 0% up to £125,000, 2% £125,001–£250,000, 5% £250,001–£925,000. In Scotland, LBTT first-time-buyer relief raises the nil-rate band to £175,000 (saving up to £600); in Wales there is no specific FTB scheme but the LTT nil-rate band is £225,000 for everyone.
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This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.