user203498230498234

Hi, We are buying a leasehold flat in England and need clarification on whether Higher Rate Stamp Duty Land Tax is applicable to this purchase. Between us, we own the following properties abroad: 1. 50% fraction on a house valued at less than £40,000. 2. Land with trees. 3. Ruins of a house (abandoned for +30 years, it will need to be rebuilt to be inhabitable again). By https://www.gov.uk/guidance/stamp-duty-land-tax-buying-an-additional-residential-property, we would expect that higher rates do not apply because the flat will be the only residential property above £40,000 that we will own anywhere in the world: (1) is residential but below the threshold. (2) is not residential. (3) is also not residential since it is not fit for habitation. Could you please confirm if our understanding is correct? Thank you.