With significant changes to Stamp Duty looming, making quick and informed decisions is more important than ever for anyone buying or selling property, says Mishantha Liyanage, CEO of The Mistoria Group.

As of April 1, the Stamp Duty threshold for standard residential purchases will be reduced from £250,000 to £125,000. Purchases over this amount will be taxed at 2%, with higher rates applied in bands for more expensive homes.

Mish Liyanage shares:

“With the Stamp Duty changes fast approaching, there’s a real urgency in the market. Buyers and sellers are pushing to finalise their transactions to make the most of the current tax savings.

“Delays in the property process can be both costly and stressful—but with the right game plan, it’s possible to move things along efficiently.”

He adds:

“Navigating today’s market successfully relies on strategic planning and timely decisions. Whether you’re looking to purchase your forever home or sell a property, staying proactive is absolutely key to beating the deadline.”

To help make the process smoother for all involved, Mish offers his top five practical tips for both buyers and sellers.

Five Essential Tips for Buyers

1. Get your finances lined up early
Before house hunting, secure a mortgage agreement in principle, gather deposit funds, and organise any required financial paperwork. A strong financial position puts you ahead of the game.

2. Appoint an experienced conveyancer
Choose a solicitor or conveyancer who is known for fast, efficient service. Make sure they’re proactive in chasing documents and keeping momentum throughout the transaction.

3. Act decisively
When you find the right property, don’t delay. Have your documents ready, respond to questions promptly, and avoid unnecessary haggling that could cause setbacks.

4. Book surveys and valuations ASAP
These often cause delays. Schedule them early to spot any issues and keep the transaction on track.

5. Prioritise chain-free properties
Look for homes with no onward chain—such as vacant, new-build, or investor-owned properties—to speed up the process and reduce risk.

Five Smart Tips for Sellers

1. Price your property competitively
A well-priced property will attract more interest and lead to faster offers. Overpricing can slow things down, while under pricing may undervalue your home. Get a professional valuation and check market trends.

2. Prepare your home for sale
Presentation counts. Declutter, tidy up, and complete any minor repairs. Professional photos and a well-crafted listing will enhance appeal.

3. Sort your legal documents early
Work with your solicitor to gather essential paperwork such as title deeds, warranties, and planning permissions. Having these ready can prevent delays once a buyer is secured.

4. Be flexible with viewing times
The more available your property is for viewings—including evenings and weekends—the faster you’ll generate serious interest.

5. Consider alternative buyers
If you’re under time pressure, consider offers from cash buyers or quick-sale companies. These can bypass mortgage delays and help you meet the Stamp Duty deadline.

Editor’s Notes

With over 15 years of experience, The Mistoria Group has built a robust and diverse property portfolio. Today, the company manages over 2,000 tenancies, covering residential, student, HMO, and commercial properties across eight branches in the North East and North West of England.

For expert guidance on buying, selling, or exploring joint venture opportunities, contact:
📞 0800 500 3015
🌐 Meet Mish Liyanage