Higher Rate Stamp Duty

[Andyp2801]

Good Morning,

My girlfriend and I are interesting in buying a property jointly with a joint mortgage.

We are in a fortunate position where I own a property that is rented out currently and my partner also has a property that she wants to keep and rent out.

I am aware that we will pay the higher rate of stamp duty as it is classed as a second home, however my question is do we both pay the higher rate as we both have second homes or is it just one lump sum payable between us?

Thanks
Andy

[SDLT Geek]

You pay an extra 3% on the purchase price of the property being bought, so it is between you.

The 3% surcharge is due either on the whole of the price or not all. It makes no difference to the amount of SDLT due that it is due both because of your circumstances and the circumstances of your girlfriend.