Could Stamp Duty Reform Help Buyers Unlock the Housing Market?

- Wed 13 Aug 2025

It has long been a thorn in home buyers’ sides, as if saving money for a deposit isn’t hard enough, that when you go ahead and eventually complete on a purchase that you are hit with another round of tax in the form of stamp duty!

There are many people that have long called for our stamp duty system to have an overhaul, and even though various governments have played with the tax to stimulate the housing market when required, the whole system has yet to be reviewed and changed.

One proposal would give home buyers the choice to spread the cost over 2 to 5 years, rather than paying it all 14 days after completion. This simple change could help ease affordability pressures and improve housing market mobility according to Andrews Estate Agents in Bristol who are driving a petition for an overhaul.

The Affordability Challenge

Stamp Duty is a large additional cost that comes with purchasing a home. For example, an existing homeowner buying an average-priced home in England (£290,000) will face a Stamp Duty bill of around £4,500, payable within just 14 days of completion. For many, this upfront cost creates a serious barrier - especially on top of deposits, legal fees, and moving costs. Spreading the cost across 2 to 5 years could ease these pressures significantly and allow more people to move or get on the ladder sooner.

Momentum is Building

This campaign has already gained strong traction, with high-profile support from property portals Rightmove and Zoopla, and TV property expert Phil Spencer, who has encouraged his followers to sign the petition.

What Happens Next?

The next key milestone is 10,000 signatures, which will trigger a formal response from the Government. Hitting 100,000 signatures would prompt a Parliamentary debate and move the proposal one step closer to reality.

What You Can Do

If you agree that it's time to reform Stamp Duty and think a more flexible approach to paying for it is a good thing, then we encourage you to add your name to the petition – and share it with your network.

Sign the petition here.

Could Stamp Duty Reform Help Buyers Unlock the Housing Market?

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