Why the government is so stubborn about Stamp Duty

Updated
Personal finance pics
Personal finance pics



Rising house prices might be great news for many home owners. But the big downside is the booming cost of stamp duty. Now, 25% of home owners shell out of stamp duty at the rate of 3%-plus – the band valuing property between £250,000 and £500,000 - compared to just 10% back in 2003.

That's terrific news for the Treasury, especially when house prices are predicted to climb close to 10% across the UK this year. Stamp duty hauled in more than £1 billion in July alone. But it's also a massive stealth tax. So, with an election around the corner, any chance of reform?

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