Will the Stamp Duty Holiday Come Back in the UK? (2025 Outlook & What It Could Mean for You)

May 23, 2025

Is the Stamp Duty Holiday Coming Back in 2025?
Many home movers in the UK are asking the same question — “Will we get another stamp duty holiday?”

After the 2020–2021 holiday saved thousands for buyers across the country, there’s speculation about whether a similar incentive could return. While nothing has been confirmed by the government, let’s break down the latest developments, expert predictions, and what it could mean for you.

🏛️ What Was the Stamp Duty Holiday?

Introduced in July 2020 to stimulate the property market during the pandemic, the stamp duty holiday temporarily raised the nil-rate band from £125,000 to £500,000. That meant:
  • Buyers could save up to £15,000
  • It created a property rush, especially for first-time buyers and upsizers
The holiday ended in September 2021 — but left a lasting impression on buyer behaviour.
🔍 Is Another Stamp Duty Holiday Likely?
Here’s what we know:
  • As of May 2025, no official plans have been announced to bring it back.
  • However, with a potential general election looming and economic pressures rising, there’s speculation that the government could use housing incentives to boost market activity.
  • Some analysts believe a targeted holiday could return — focused on first-time buyers or those downsizing.
In short: It’s possible, but don’t plan your finances around it just yet.

💸 How to Plan Your Move Without Relying on a Holiday

If you're thinking about buying or selling this year, the best strategy is to plan for the current rates — and treat any potential holiday as a bonus.
Use a free tool like MyMoveBudget.com to calculate exactly:
  • Your current stamp duty liability
  • How changes in sale price or purchase price affect what you owe
  • What your total cash in/out position looks like in different scenarios

🧠 Smart Moves to Make in Case a Holiday Returns

  • Stay informed by watching announcements in the Autumn Statement or Spring Budget.
  • Consider delaying your move only if stamp duty is a significant portion of your total costs and you’re not under pressure to buy/sell.
  • Keep an eye on local housing prices — if prices rise too quickly, they could cancel out any stamp duty savings.

🏁 Final Word

There’s no crystal ball — but if another stamp duty holiday is introduced, it will likely come with limited timelines and specific criteria. The smartest thing you can do? Be prepared.
Use MyMoveBudget.com to run your numbers ahead of time, so if the market shifts — you’re ready to move.