Autumn Budget: Key Updates for the Property Market

The Autumn Budget brings a mixed picture for the property market, with changes to landlord taxation and new support for first-time buyers likely to influence activity in the months ahead.

Stamp Duty

There are no changes to Stamp Duty. This removes uncertainty for buyers who had been holding off in anticipation of a reduction, potentially encouraging some to move forward with their plans.

Landlords

Tax on rental income will increase by 2%, which may prompt some landlords to reconsider their portfolios and bring properties to market ahead of April. This could create additional opportunities for buyers, although it may also add pressure to the private rented sector.

First-Time Buyers

From spring 2027, a new scheme will allow first-time buyers to purchase new-build homes with a 2.5% deposit and a government loan of up to 20%. Lifetime ISA savers will also benefit from greater flexibility when purchasing properties priced above £450,000, with a reduced penalty. These measures could help more first-time buyers enter the market, particularly those considering new-build homes.

Iain McKenzie, CEO of The Guild of Property Professionals, comments:

“The property market needs confidence and consistency, and our hope is that this Autumn Budget will provide a clearer direction for buyers, sellers and the wider housing sector. With borrowing costs, inflation and the cost of living continuing to influence household decisions, sentiment will be just as important as the individual measures announced today.

“Any initiative that makes home ownership more accessible should be welcomed, and the new support for first-time buyers has the potential to help aspiring homeowners who are struggling to build a deposit. However, these schemes must deliver meaningful, sustainable progress rather than simply bring forward demand without addressing the wider affordability challenge.

“First-time buyers need to understand the long-term financial implications of the support available, including any repayment obligations, and access to independent financial advice will be crucial.

“Ultimately, the market will benefit most from measures that support genuine affordability and restore confidence. With mortgage rates having crept up ahead of the Budget, we will be watching closely to see whether the economic uncertainty surrounding the announcements begins to ease. A more stable outlook would give buyers and sellers the confidence to make their next move.”

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