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Can I pay any vendor costs without raising eyebrows...

....with the taxman.

Hi there,

I have tried to search, but not 100% from the threads found.

The age old query of a 250k house offer. Would anyone know with relative certainty if there are any costs I could offer to pay to increase my offer without really increasing it, i.e:

- sellers estate agents costs
- sellers solicitors costs
- contents (I know you have to be careful, but can I offer an amount for things like built in cooker, dishwasher and wardrobes or only non fixed items?

Thanks all, I know I need to be careful here, so wanted to ask before going for it!

Thanks for any help possible!

Alan

Comments

  • G_M
    G_M Posts: 51,977 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts Name Dropper Combo Breaker
    This is an SDLT tax avoidance scheme right?

    HMRC are not stupid and look closely at sales on/near the thresholds.

    Your solicitor, if you use one, will insist on any 'costs' you bear being included on the SDLT declaration - unless you lie/keep quiet to him/her.

    Bite the bullet - either increase your offer and pay the tax due, or tell the seller that for tax reasons you cannot afford to increase your offer.
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