Fairview New Homes data shows that almost one in three prospective first-time buyers had hoped to see Stamp Duty Tax relief announced in today’s Budget.
The findings, based on a survey of buyers conducted ahead of the Chancellor’s statement, highlight the extent to which Stamp Duty continues to shape buying decisions.
On learning about the current Stamp Duty threshold, which came into effect on 1st April, almost 29% of respondents said they were no longer able to buy a home in the near future.
Fairview said this reflects the growing impact of tax changes on affordability, particularly for younger buyers and those purchasing in higher-cost areas.
Chris Hood, sales and marketing director at Fairview New Homes, said: “We know that 81% of first-time buyers were hopeful for some form of government support on Wednesday, particularly in London, where 39% of our respondents had hoped to see Stamp Duty Tax relief.
“As a new home developer, we’re able to support in most cases by helping to cover some costs such as stamp duty, deposits and mortgage repayments, so we urge first-time buyers not to feel disheartened and explore the options out there. You could be much closer to buying than you think.”
Fairview’s research also shows that awareness of Stamp Duty remains limited despite its financial significance. Some 22% of first-time buyers said they do not know what Stamp Duty is, even though the average aspiring buyer in London pays £15,750 in the tax.
Among 18–24-year-olds, 75% said they either do not know what Stamp Duty is or are unfamiliar with the recent changes. A further 76% of first-time buyers believe students should be taught how to buy a home in school.
In response, Fairview is launching an educational programme aimed at improving understanding of the homebuying process.
The initiative includes a grassroots workshop tour for college students across London, beginning at Featherstone School in Southall in January 2026. Sessions will feature third-party experts including Experian, which will focus on credit scoring, and mortgage specialists Torc24, which will guide students through mortgage fundamentals.
Fairview is also expanding its quarterly first-time buyer event series, “The Knowledge”, delivered with partners such as Torc24. An Autumn Budget Special is planned for the New Year, offering live Q&As and one-to-one sessions with industry professionals.
