Budget Overview 

Every October, the government unveils its budget, packed with measures that ripple through the property market. Buyers, sellers, and investors all feel the effects, from stamp duty to borrowing rules. While the full details of this year’s Autumn Budget are still emerging, early reports suggest significant changes, including a potential new property tax on high-value homes and tweaks to inheritance tax. Here’s what to look out for and how it could influence your property decisions. 

Stamp Duty and the Potential New Property Tax 

Stamp duty has long been a headline-grabbing part of the budget, affecting buyer behaviour. This year, reports suggest the government may replace stamp duty on owner-occupied homes with a new proportional property tax for homes worth more than £500,000. 

• Impact on buyers: Homes above this threshold could face a new sales tax, potentially increasing upfront costs for buyers. 

• Impact on sellers: If the new tax is implemented, sellers may need to account for the cost when pricing high-value properties. 
• Market implications: While fewer properties may be affected compared to the current stamp duty system, the government hopes the new tax will provide more predictable revenue over time. 

Mortgage and Borrowing Rules 

Budgets often introduce changes to mortgage regulations, first-time buyer incentives, or support for green homes. 

• Potential changes: In response to market pressures, the government may introduce targeted mortgage support or buyer incentives, although the specifics remain unconfirmed. 
• Market effect: New schemes have the potential to expand property accessibility for first-time buyers, boost competition, or modify affordability thresholds. 

Energy and Home Improvements 

Recent budgets have emphasised eco-friendly initiatives, including grants for insulation, solar panels, or heat pumps. 

• October 2025 outlook: The budget may continue to offer energy-efficiency incentives, which could enhance property appeal and value for sellers. 
• Why it matters: Buyers are increasingly prioritising low-energy homes, so upgrades supported by government schemes could make properties more competitive in the market. 

Inheritance and Affordable Housing Initiatives 

The government is reportedly exploring changes to inheritance tax to generate additional revenue without affecting income tax, national insurance, or VAT. 

• Inheritance tax adjustments: Tweaks to Potentially Exempt Transfers (PETs) or thresholds could impact estate planning and property inheritance. 
• Affordable housing funding: New schemes may increase the supply of homes or offer support to buyers, shaping local market dynamics. 

How to Prepare as a Buyer or Seller 

1. Stay informed: Track budget announcements as soon as they are released to understand which measures will affect you. 
2. Talk to your agent: Local property experts can help interpret budget changes in practical terms. 
3. Plan strategically: Energy improvements, minor renovations, and staged properties can boost market appeal, regardless of tax changes. 

Think of the Autumn Budget as a market weather forecast: you can’t control it but knowing whether it’s sunny or stormy for buyers and sellers helps you plan your strategy effectively. 

Contact us today for a tailored guide and actionable insights to navigate the 2025 property market