As estate agents working every day with homeowners and buyers here in Huddersfield, we always keep a close eye on national policy changes that can influence the property market. The Chancellor’s Autumn Budget has finally arrived, and although some of the rumoured reforms did not materialise, there are still several key points that everyone with an interest in property should understand.
To start with, Stamp Duty remains untouched – despite strong speculation that adjustments might be on the cards. Likewise, there was no movement on Local Housing Allowance rates, which unfortunately remain frozen. However, the Government has confirmed that a new higher-rate council tax surcharge—dubbed by many as a “mansion tax”—will apply to homes worth over £2 million from 2028. Alongside this, property income tax is set to rise in the coming years, and the National Minimum Wage will increase.
The Private Rental Sector and Holiday Lets – Autumn Budget 2025
The rental market continues to face incremental pressure. From April 2027, all three bands of property income tax will increase by 2%. That means the basic, higher, and additional rates will rise to 22%, 42%, and 47% respectively.
Another significant development is the introduction of powers for regional mayors to implement an overnight visitor levy. This would function similarly to proposals already under way in Wales and Scotland. We can expect a consultation shortly to determine how these local levies might operate.
For landlords, these changes add to a decade-long trend of policy shifts—such as tougher rules on mortgage interest relief, surcharge increases, reduced CGT allowances and the Renters’ Rights Act. Individually these may seem manageable, but combined they continue to chip away at landlord profitability. Over time, that’s likely to reduce the number of available rental homes nationally; if demand continues to outstrip supply, rents will inevitably rise.
Buying and Selling Homes
The newly announced High Value Council Tax Surcharge will apply to properties over £2 million from April 2028, with annual charges ranging between £2,500 and £7,500 depending on value. While this affects only a very small proportion of homes in areas like ours, it is a notable shift in the broader market.
More positively, house prices across the UK are still forecast to grow steadily, rising from an average of £260,000 in 2024 to close to £305,000 by 2030. Analysts expect annual growth of around 2.5% from 2026 onwards, keeping pace with average wage increases.
However, one thing all of us in the sector know too well is that the buying and selling process still suffers from inefficiencies. Fall-throughs and delays remain a major frustration for buyers, sellers, conveyancers and agents alike. We therefore welcome the Government’s ongoing consultation into modernising and streamlining the transaction process.
Key Points for Homeowners, Buyers and Landlords
Stamp Duty unchanged
No alterations to thresholds or structure, despite heavy pre-Budget speculation.
Property income tax rising in 2027
Each band increases by 2%, continuing the pressure on rental yields.
Visitor levy powers for regional authorities
Could affect short-term let profitability depending on how local councils roll it out.
High Value Council Tax Surcharge arriving in 2028
Applies only to homes over £2 million, but signals a shift in taxation strategy.
House prices expected to rise steadily
Projections show growth to nearly £305,000 by 2030, roughly matching earnings.
Ongoing work to improve the home-moving process
The Government is consulting on ways to cut delays, reduce fall-throughs and support more efficient transactions.
If you’d like to understand how these changes may impact your own plans—whether you’re thinking of selling, buying, investing or simply planning ahead—we’re always here to help.
Contact ADM Residential to sell your Huddersfield home
Anyone who is keen to sell their home in Huddersfield should contact ADM Residential today. We are more than happy to provide you with a property valuation, which is the ideal starting point for anyone looking to enter the Huddersfield housing market with confidence.
This is a busy time of year in the local and national housing market, but we look forward to assisting you. Call on your leading Huddersfield estate agents today for help and guidance in the local market.
