Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s director of property science, said: “The rumours that “nil rate” and first-time buyer stamp duty thresholds will indeed be reverting to previous levels as of March 2025, rather than be held at their current rates, will no doubt be seen as an unwelcome additional cost by many buyers looking to make their move in 2025 – and potentially to those currently in the process. We’re likely to see a rush to complete property transactions before the stamp duty changes occur as buyers look to avoid the additional costs, meaning a busier Christmas and New Year for the housing market.