The Autumn Budget 2026 has now been delivered, with announcements affecting first-time buyers, homeowners, household energy bills and the wider property market.
With affordability and the cost of living continuing to influence decisions about moving home, many buyers and sellers have been waiting to see what the Government would announce.
At Hattons Estate Agents, we’ve taken a closer look at the key updates and what they could mean for the property market here in the Forest of Dean.
First-time buyers: What support is available?
For those hoping to get onto the property ladder, saving for a deposit and securing an affordable mortgage remain two of the biggest challenges.
The Budget included an announcement concerning a new first-time buyer ISA, designed to support prospective purchasers saving towards their first home.
Although additional savings support could provide encouragement, mortgage affordability and deposit requirements will remain important considerations for those looking to purchase their first property.
Stamp duty: No changes announced
One of the key areas of interest ahead of the Budget was whether the Government would make any changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax.
No changes to stamp duty rates or thresholds have been announced, meaning the existing arrangements remain in place for property purchases in England.
For qualifying first-time buyers, there is no stamp duty payable on the first £300,000 of a property, provided the total purchase price does not exceed £500,000. A 5% rate applies to the portion between £300,000 and £500,000.
For other buyers purchasing their main residence, the standard rates remain:
- 0% on the first £125,000
- 2% between £125,001 and £250,000
- 5% between £250,001 and £925,000
- 10% between £925,001 and £1.5 million
- 12% on the portion above £1.5 million
Additional property purchases can attract higher rates.
While some buyers may have hoped for changes to reduce the upfront costs of moving, the absence of any adjustments at least provides some certainty for those currently planning a purchase.
Homeowners: £100 energy payment for council tax bands A–D
One of the announcements attracting attention is a proposed £100 household energy payment for eligible properties within council tax bands A, B, C and D.
The measure is intended to ease pressure on household finances, particularly during the colder months.
For homeowners and tenants across the Forest of Dean, where many properties fall within these council tax bands, this could provide some welcome financial relief.
It is important to distinguish this from a council tax reduction. The payment relates to household energy support rather than a permanent change to council tax charges.
Energy bills: What changes are coming?
With household running costs remaining a major concern, the Budget also outlined measures aimed at reducing energy expenses.
These include changes to electricity VAT relief, household gas standing charges and the way certain energy costs are funded.
The Government has indicated that some households could benefit from lower annual energy costs, although the actual savings will depend on individual circumstances and energy consumption.
For the property market, energy efficiency remains an important consideration. Buyers are increasingly interested in insulation, heating systems and Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings when assessing the ongoing cost of a home.
What does the Budget mean for sellers?
For homeowners considering selling, the biggest question is whether the Budget will encourage more buyers to enter the market.
Although some of the announcements may help household finances, we don’t expect an immediate transformation in market conditions.
Mortgage affordability, interest rates and buyer confidence will continue to play a significant role in determining activity.
However, with the uncertainty surrounding the Budget now behind us, some buyers and sellers who have been delaying decisions may feel more confident about progressing with their plans.
Across the Forest of Dean, we continue to see properties selling, although the market remains competitive and price-sensitive.
With buyers having plenty of choice, accurate pricing, professional marketing and strong presentation are more important than ever.
Our thoughts at Hattons Estate Agents
At Hattons, we believe the Budget offers some encouraging news for household finances, but the fundamentals of the property market remain largely unchanged.
For first-time buyers, affordability and deposit requirements will continue to be key considerations. For existing homeowners, household running costs and mortgage payments remain important factors when deciding whether to move.
For sellers, our advice remains consistent: understanding your local market, positioning your property correctly and responding proactively to buyer feedback are essential to achieving a successful sale.
Thinking of buying or selling in the Forest of Dean?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, considering your next move or simply wondering what your property could be worth in today’s market, our friendly team is here to help.