With new stamp duty rates set to take effect on 1 April 2025, property investors have until the end of March to benefit from current, more favourable rates on additional properties.
According to First for Auctions, this short window presents a final chance for buy-to-let purchasers – whether newcomers or experienced landlords – to secure significant savings.
Current and upcoming stamp duty rates
From now until 31 March 2025, additional properties in England are taxed at 5% for the first £250,000, 10% between £250,001 and £925,000, 15% between £925,001 and £1.5 million, and 17% above £1.5 million. Post-deadline, the first bracket drops to £125,000 at 5%, then rises to 7% for up to £250,000, 10% to £925,000, 15% to £1.5 million, and 17% beyond £1.5 million.
Completing a purchase by 31 March could save buyers thousands of pounds, allowing them to reinvest in refurbishment or other costs to maximise rental yields.
Featured properties in February’s auction
Rosedale Crescent, Earley, Berkshire
• Guide price: £270,000
• Likely sale price: ~£400,000
• Potential monthly rent: ~£2,100 (gross yield ~5.9%)
• High-end A1 condition value: ~£425,000
• Stamp duty saving: £27,500 if bought before 31 March vs. £30,000 from 1 April
Hythe Park Road, Egham, Surrey
• Guide price: £300,000
• Likely sale price: ~£370,000
• Potential monthly rent: ~£1,995 (gross yield ~5.5%)
• High-end A1 condition value: ~£435,000
• Stamp duty saving: £24,500 if bought before 31 March vs. £27,000 from 1 April
The Dreadnought, Reading
• Guide price: £185,000
• Unique commercial property with residential flat above
• Potential to convert to full residential, subject to planning permission
• Suitable for more experienced investors looking for strong future returns
Daniel Gale, Head of Auctions at First for Auctions, says the firm’s February auction has attracted heightened interest from investors aiming to beat the stamp duty deadline. “Our February auction offers a variety of properties across different price points,” Gale explains, “making it possible to start small or invest bigger while taking advantage of the current rates.”
For those ready to act swiftly, the current lower stamp duty thresholds could mean the difference between a merely good investment and one with an even stronger return on investment.
