Last call for stamp duty holiday

The waiver of stamp duty for house purchases up to £175,000 comes to a close at the end of the year and will only apply to purchases that complete before the deadline.

Potentially worth as much as £1750 it could be valuable help for first time buyers already facing the prospect of having to raise a significant deposit. Most lenders typically require at least a 15% deposit so it is vital to do your homework to get the right mortgage deal.

"As house purchases can take months to complete it's make your mind up time for those considering buying a property. With house prices now holding up more strongly and in some cases rising, the stamp duty holiday will prove to act as a greater incentive as the deadline approaches" commented David Hollingworth, Head of Communications at L&C Mortgages.