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Tax & Costs

UK Property Tax & Cost Guide

Costs on top of the headline price typically add 5-10%. SDLT (Stamp Duty), solicitor fees, mortgage arrangement fees, valuation and ongoing costs (council tax, service charge, ground rent) all belong in your budget.

Extra costs
5-10%
Non-UK SDLT surcharge
+2%
BTL surcharge
+5% (each band)
Rental income tax
20-45%

SDLT (Stamp Duty Land Tax)

Tax on residential purchases, structured in bands: 0% up to £125k, scaling up to 12% at the top. Foreign buyers pay an extra 2% surcharge, with another 5% on additional properties. Our calculator shows the band-by-band breakdown in detail.

Rental Income Tax

20-45% of gross rental income is taxable — the marginal rate is applied based on total income. Foreign investors must register for the Non-Resident Landlord Scheme (NRLS); otherwise the tenant must withhold 20% at source. Mortgage interest (limited), maintenance and insurance are deductible.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

18-28% (depending on income level) on the gain at sale. Foreign investors pay CGT on gains accrued after 2015. There's an annual £6,000 tax-free allowance.

Ongoing Costs

Council Tax (£1,000-3,000/year depending on band and area), Service Charge (£1,500-4,000/year on leasehold flats), Ground Rent (£200-500), buildings insurance (£300-600). Some of these are recoverable from the tenant under the tenancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

+ How do I pay SDLT?

Within 14 days of completion, via your solicitor to HMRC. Can it be added to the mortgage? No — it's paid in cash, upfront.

+ Will I be double-taxed?

Turkey and the UK have a Double Taxation Agreement. UK tax paid is credited against your Turkish tax.

+ Are there tax advantages to using an SPV?

For higher-rate taxpayers, a Ltd-company structure can save up to 25% via corporation tax. Get personal advice.