LBTT Changes in Scotland
The Scottish government has announced that from 15th July they are increasing the nil rate band for Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (“LBTT”) from £145,000 to £250,000.
This means that if the date of entry for your property purchase falls between 15th July 2020 and 31st March 2021 you will not pay any LBTT on a property up to the value of £250,000.
LBTT on properties above £250,000 will be charged at 5% and any Additional Dwelling Supplement (ADS) will still apply if you own another property and are not replacing your main residence. This will apply to all purchases whether you are a first-time buyer or not.
It is hoped that these measures along with additional funding through the First Home Fund will support the recovery of the market and assist many people to move home during this difficult period.
Get in contact with our conveyancing solicitors in Paisley and Renfrew today if you would like more information.
First Time Buyers Scotland – A Helpful Guide
At Walker Laird we have been providing expert advice for first time buyers for over 200 years. If you are a first time buyer the process for many at the outset can seem quite stressful. The recent impact and uncertainty surrounding Covid-19 does not make that any easier which makes it even more important than ever to seek good quality, reliable advice from a conveyancing solicitor.
So…..what should you be thinking about and what should you do in the early stages ?
Whether you are ready to make an offer or not we are here to help. We do not charge any fees when advising you about the legal process and the property market more generally. A fee is only charged once an offer is submitted and accepted. We can offer video appointments via FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype or Zoom within our outwith normal business hours. We also offer home visits at no extra cost.
Mortgage
We are well aware that many clients are seeking mortgage solicitors in Glasgow and surrounding areas. At Walker Laird we can provide initial mortgage advice but recommend you seek advice from a mortgage advisor either through your bank or through an independent mortgage adviser. We are happy to recommend a mortgage adviser if you do not have one. A seller is likely to look upon your offer much more favourably if you can illustrate that you have a mortgage agreed in principal.
Budget
At the outset it is important to carefully consider your budget to determine what you can afford. This should take into consideration moving costs which could include removal company fees, legal fees and the Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) which replaced UK Stamp Duty Land Tax in 2015. We can provide detailed advice about LBTT but for a brief overview there is helpful advice on the Scottish Government’s website.
Home Report
Introduced in 2008 a home report provides better information to sellers and buyers before offers are placed. A home report comprises three documents: an Energy Report, a Property Questionnaire and a Single Survey with the aim of giving an overview of the value, condition and history of a property. We regularly arrange home reports and can advise you about how to make the most of the information contained within them together with the home report cost.
Viewings
Take your time. Don’t rush a viewing. Even if you make a successful offer it’s very unlikely you will be allowed back in the property until the missives (contract) has been concluded. Therefore, it’s crucial to take in your surroundings carefully. Note down any concerns you have. Consider any work, structural or cosmetic, you may undertake if you became the owner. Take a friend or a family member for a second opinion. Two heads are better than one!
Agreements
An agreement should be considered if you are buying a property with another person. This agreement would confirm how the funds would be divided following any future sale. We are happy to draft up such an agreement should it be required.
Source of funding
If you are receiving a gift or a loan from a family member or friend it is important you declare this with your solicitor and mortgage broker as early as possible. It is very common for first time buyers to receive financial assistance but if it is not declared early with your mortgage lender/bank it could cause complications/delays further down the road.
With our advice you will be taking your first step on the property ladder in no time!
If you would like more information or wish to make an appointment please contact our Paisley office on 0141 887 5271 or our Renfrew office on 0141 886 5678.
Alternatively, please complete our online enquiry form and a member of our team will be in touch.
