First Time Buyers' Stamp Duty Doubles

Stamp duty for first time buyers' purchases has almost doubled to £1,751 over the last 5 years. Worst hit is London, where the average first time buyers' bill is a staggering £8,675.

20% of southern first time buyers are paying at the 3% rate (property price above £250,000) - adding £7,500 to their outlay. Five years ago only 2% bought properties costing more than £250,000.