Second home stamp duty help

Alamb200

Hi,
I have been told that because I am buying a second home I am going to have to pay 3% stamp duty, is this right?
I know this is the rule for pelr buying a buy to let or a holiday home but my situation is different. I have split with my wife, but rather than kicking her out the family home which is mortgage free I am buying a second home for me to live in.
As far as I can gather because the deeds to my old house are in my name, even though I will not be living there I will have to pay stamp duty.
Is there anyway to avoid this?
Thanks
Alamb200

jaybeetoo

Separated couples are exempt
http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/buytolet/article-3394231/Why-concerned-second-home-stamp-duty-reforms.html

Alamb200

That's brilliant, I have emailed the details on to my solicitor.
I will let you know what they say