In the newest instalment of the Property Prognosis series, Dr. T breaks down the UK Budget and what it means for landlords and property investors. After months of speculation, worry and headline-driven rumours, the final announcement has delivered something few expected – good news.
While a small income tax rise is included, most of the feared changes did not happen. Below is a full summary of Dr T’s insights from the latest video.
The Feared Tax Changes
Over recent months, the media stirred concerns of sweeping property tax reforms. In this video, Dr. T goes through each rumoured change one by one – clarifying what the Budget actually included.
1. Income Tax Increase – The Only Real Negative
Dr. T confirms that income tax on rental income is rising by 2%:
- Tax above the personal allowance now charged at 22% (was 20%)
- Higher-rate landlords pay 42% (was 40%)
- Limited company dividend tax up by 2% as well
This is the one meaningful change. However, Dr. T stresses that it is modest compared to the alternatives investors feared.
2.Stamp Duty Reform – No Changes at All
Rumours suggested:
- Replacing stamp duty with an annual tax
- Higher stamp duty on investment properties
- Extra charges for overseas buyers
Dr. T confirms these did not happen. No stamp duty changes were included in the Budget.
3. National Insurance on Rent – Not Happening
A potential 8% national insurance levy on rent had many landlords worried. Dr. T reassures viewers: this tax is not being introduced.
4. VAT on Rent – Not Happening
A 20% VAT charge on rent was discussed in the media but was always unlikely. Dr. T confirms it is not part of the Budget.
5. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) – Rates Unchanged
CGT remains between 18% and 24%, significantly lower than income tax.
This is beneficial for investors, especially those using a strategy of:
- Selling one property per year
- Keeping gains below the higher-rate threshold
- Making full use of annual allowances
Fears of CGT rate increases proved unfounded. Dr. T confirms no CGT changes.
6. CGT on Main Residences – Not Changing
Some feared the government might remove CGT exemption on main homes.
This did not happen. And it would not have applied to landlords’ rental properties anyway.
7. Mansion Tax – Introduced, But Irrelevant to Most Investors
The one widely discussed new tax that is happening is the mansion tax:
- £2,500 per year for homes over £2 million
- £7,500 per year for homes over £5 million
Dr. T notes that this affects a tiny percentage of investors and is not relevant to low-cost rental property owners.
8. Inheritance Tax – Gifting Rules Unchanged
There were rumours of changes to:
- Property gifting
- The seven-year IHT rule
- Restrictions on transfers to family members
Dr. T confirms none of these were implemented. Existing IHT strategies remain available.
Other Budget Items
In addition to property-related concerns, Dr. T points out:
- Tax allowances are frozen for three more years
- Pension salary-sacrifice tax advantages have been reduced
These are general tax measures rather than landlord-specific reforms.
Dr T’s Verdict: “Overall, It’s Good News”
Dr. T gives his overall assessment:
1. Stability Has Returned
No drastic reforms, and none of the feared property taxes occurred.
2. Supply and Demand Still Strongly Favour Investors
- Rental demand continues rising as buying remains unaffordable for many
- Tenants’ rights and standards are increasing, making renting more attractive
- Rental supply is tightening as some landlords exit the market
This combination supports rents and helps maintain healthy returns.
3. Costs Can Be Passed On Over Time
With high demand and limited supply, small tax increases are generally absorbed into rental pricing against the market backdrop.
Find UK Property – For Fully Passive, Guaranteed Rental Income
Dr. T ends the episode by reminding viewers that fully passive property investment is possible.
Find UK Property offers:
- 7% net guaranteed rent
- Freehold homes from under £80,000
- Fully renovated, already rented properties
- No maintenance costs or liabilities
- No dealing with tenants or repairs
- 100% passive ownership
- Long-term capital growth
Investors own the property while Find UK Property becomes their tenant, managing every aspect and covering all costs.
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