Stamp Duty under the spotlight; myths and pitfalls

In this episode of the Today’s Conveyancer Podcast, host David Opie sits down with Louise Wise of Relatus to shed light on the complex world of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) and how proactive advice can transform outcomes for conveyancers and clients alike.Drawing on her transition from family law solicitor to specialist in property taxation, Louise shares the journey that led her to become a leading voice in SDLT advisory. She explains how Relatus evolved from assisting consumers with business rate relief to specialising in SDLT and partnering more closely with legal professionals.The conversation tackles the practical risks conveyancers face, especially around compliance checks, liability, and the nuances of under- or overpaying stamp duty. Louise outlines the importance of correctly identifying property types, assessing client circumstances, and understanding legislative grey areas.They also explore overlooked considerations such as incentives on new-build properties, purchaser characteristics, and the implications of developer contributions.With a clear focus on risk mitigation, collaboration, and accuracy, this episode is an essential listen for conveyancers seeking clarity, protection, and a more robust approach to SDLT reporting. Louise’s insights reveal why outsourcing tax advice could soon become as routine as ordering searches.The Today's Conveyancer podcast can be found on your preferred podcast provider and also at www.todaysconveyancer.co.uk. Subscribe and listen in for all the latest conveyancing industry news and views. Thank you to our podcast sponsors LEAP Legal Software and InfoTrack