Pre-Completion Stamp Duty Advice - Avoid Overpaying SDLT

When you’re buying property, stamp duty (SDLT) can be one of the most significant costs you face - but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many buyers only think about SDLT after completion, often when it’s too late to make changes that could save thousands. That’s where pre-completion stamp duty advice comes in.

At SCA Tax, we work with property buyers, investors, solicitors, and developers to ensure SDLT is calculated accurately before contracts are exchanged. This proactive approach can help you:

• Avoid costly mistakes
• Identify reliefs you’re entitled to
• Reduce or even eliminate your SDLT liability

Why Pre-Completion SDLT Advice Matters

Stamp Duty Land Tax rules are complex and constantly changing. Factors such as:

• Property use (residential, mixed-use, or commercial)
• Ownership structure (companies, partnerships, or individuals)
• Second home surcharge exemptions

… can all drastically affect what you pay.

Without specialist input before completion, your solicitor may default to the safest (and highest) SDLT calculation, meaning you could be paying far more than necessary.

How SCA Tax Can Help You Before Completion

We provide specialist SDLT assessments at the pre-completion stage to give you peace of mind and potential savings before you sign on the dotted line.

Our service includes:

• Detailed Property Review - We analyse the property’s characteristics, use, and legal documentation.
• Relief Eligibility Check - We assess whether reliefs such as mixed-use classification or second home surcharge exemptions apply.
• SDLT Calculation - We provide an accurate, HMRC-compliant SDLT figure so you know exactly what to budget for.
• Support for Solicitors - We work alongside your conveyancer to ensure the correct SDLT return is filed from day one.

Benefits of Acting Early

• Immediate clarity on your SDLT position
•  Avoid overpayment and the stress of a reclaim process later
•  Stronger negotiating position when buying
•  Full compliance with HMRC rules

Why Choose SCA Tax for Your SDLT Advice

We specialise exclusively in SDLT - it’s not an add-on service, it’s our core expertise. Our clients include homebuyers, investors, and solicitors who value accurate, practical advice that stands up to HMRC scrutiny.

Get pre-completion SDLT advice today - before you commit.