Where the house costs £125000 or less, irrespective of where it is situated, Land Tax Stamp Duty does not currently apply. Thereafter, it is 1% of the total purchase price from £125001 to £250000, 3% from £250001 to £500000 and 4% over that price. So, with virtually all purchase prices now exceeding £125000 in the South West, it can hurt. You may be able to mitigate it if your solicitor is able to negotiate the purchase price where it is only just in excess of one of the thresholds, with the balance being bought as 'fixtures and fittings' although there is obviously a ceiling as to what is a reasonable price for these and they may not be mortgageable, depending on the lender.