Proposed ‘mansion tax’ makes ‘no economic sense’, expert says

Business & FinanceProperty
21 Aug 2025 • 6:45 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • The Chancellor is reportedly planning to introduce capital gains tax on the sale of primary residences above a certain value.
  • This proposed measure aims to help plug a reported £40 billion hole in the public purse.
  • Under the mooted plans, higher-rate taxpayers could face a 24 per cent levy on gains, while basic rate taxpayers would pay 18 per cent, a significant departure from current tax-free sales.
  • Property experts warn that such a tax, potentially starting at a £1.5 million threshold, would stall high-value housing sales and disproportionately affect older homeowners and those in London.
  • Critics also suggest the change could lead to an exodus of wealthy individuals from the UK and create disincentives for homeowners to sell, disrupting the housing market.

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