The Autumn Budget and your home: What’s changed for sellers

The Chancellor’s Autumn Budget, delivered on 28 October 2026, was not the sweeping property market overhaul that some had anticipated. There were no headline changes to stamp duty rates, no adjustments to capital gains tax on residential property, and no dramatic shift in the framework that governs most home sales. Instead, the Budget brought a targeted set of measures for first-time buyers and a further change to the tax on rental income. For sellers, the most useful question is how these measures may shape the buyers who come forward in the year ahead.

More support for first-time buyers

The Budget confirmed Your First Home, a new equity loan scheme helping first-time buyers in England buy new-build homes with a deposit from 2.5%. Pre-registration is expected by the end of 2026, with applications from February 2027 and the first loans from April 2027.

First-time buyers are essential to a healthy market. Chains begin with them, and when deposit requirements hold them back, movement further up the market tends to slow too. Although the scheme covers new-build homes only, more activity at the entry level can help chains form and support demand further up the ladder, benefiting sellers of family homes and move-up properties as well.

The Lifetime ISA change

First-time buyers using Lifetime ISA savings to buy above the £450,000 property price cap now face a lower withdrawal charge of 20%, down from 25%, from 29 October 2026.

If your home is priced just above that level, this may widen the pool of first-time buyers who can consider it. Some buyers who had been steering towards cheaper homes, or delaying their purchase, may now feel able to look at homes like yours.

What the landlord tax change could mean

The Budget announced a further 2 percentage point increase in tax rates on rental income, on top of the rise announced in last year’s Budget. From 6 April 2027, landlords who own property in their own name will pay 24%, 44% or 49% on rental profits, depending on their tax band.

Some landlords may review whether to keep or sell their properties in the year ahead. Many of the homes they sell are likely to be bought by owner-occupiers, which supports overall sales activity. It also means buyers in some areas may have a wider choice of homes, so realistic pricing and good presentation will continue to matter.

If you’re a landlord thinking about selling, a valuation can help you weigh up your options before the new rates apply.

The broader picture for sellers

What the Budget did not do is equally relevant. Capital gains tax on residential property was left unchanged, removing a source of uncertainty for sellers who had been considering timing their sale around possible rate changes. Stamp duty was not adjusted, so buyers can budget with the existing thresholds in place. The Cash ISA allowance also stays at £20,000, supporting buyers who are still saving for a deposit.

Together, a stable position on capital gains tax and stamp duty, alongside new support for first-time buyers, means the market heads into the new year with greater certainty. For sellers who have been waiting for a clearer picture before listing, that picture is now considerably more defined.

Getting ready to sell

Many buyers begin their search as soon as the new year starts. A few practical steps can help you make the most of that interest:

• Get an up-to-date valuation based on recent local sales.

• Price in line with similar homes nearby to attract interest from the start.

• Have your paperwork ready, including certificates and guarantees, before you list.

Thinking of selling in the new year? Book a valuation with our team today.