Stamp Duty Check
Stamp duty is one of the largest upfront costs when buying property. Depending on where you're buying, your buyer type, and the property price, it can add tens of thousands of dollars to your purchase. But here's the challenge: stamp duty rates vary dramatically between states, territories, and countries.
Our free calculator instantly estimates stamp duty for Australia, the UK, and the US—accounting for first home buyer concessions, foreign buyer surcharges, and other jurisdictional differences. Select your location, enter the property price, and get a clear breakdown of what you'll pay.
It's completely free—no ads, no hidden fees, no account required.
Frequently Asked Questions
+What is stamp duty and who pays it?
Stamp duty is a tax paid by the buyer when purchasing property or land. It's calculated on the purchase price using a sliding scale and rates vary by location. In Australia, it's called transfer duty, while in the UK it's Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), and in the US it's often called a recording fee or transfer tax.
+How much stamp duty will I pay on a property purchase?
Stamp duty varies significantly depending on the property price, your location, buyer type (first home buyer, investor, owner-occupier), and property type. For example, a $500,000 property in NSW might cost around $18,000 in stamp duty, while the same property in Queensland could be as low as $8,750 for an owner-occupier. Use our calculator above to get an instant estimate for your specific situation.
+Are first home buyers exempt from stamp duty?
Many jurisdictions offer exemptions or concessions for first home buyers, but rules vary. In Australia, most states exempt first home buyers up to a certain price threshold (typically $600,000–$800,000). In the UK, first-time buyers can be exempt on properties under £425,000. Rules change frequently, so check your local government or use our calculator to see your specific entitlements.
+Do foreign buyers pay extra stamp duty?
Yes, most jurisdictions impose a foreign buyer surcharge. In Australia, it ranges from 7–9% on top of standard stamp duty rates. In the UK, non-resident surcharge rates also apply. The US varies by state. If you're a foreign buyer, use our calculator to see the full cost including surcharges.
+Can I reduce or avoid stamp duty?
There are legitimate ways to minimize stamp duty, such as first home buyer exemptions, off-the-plan concessions (in some states), or choosing an owner-occupied purchase over investment. Some states offer land tax alternatives or special exemptions for new builds. However, stamp duty cannot be avoided—it's a legal requirement. Consult a tax professional for strategies tailored to your situation.
+What's the difference between stamp duty and land tax?
Stamp duty is a one-off tax paid at purchase, while land tax is an annual property tax. Some jurisdictions let you choose between them. For example, in NSW, first home buyers can opt to pay annual land tax instead of upfront stamp duty, which can improve affordability. The choice depends on how long you plan to hold the property.
+Is this calculator accurate for my location?
Our calculator uses official government rates and thresholds for each state, region, or country. However, stamp duty law changes regularly, and individual circumstances may apply. Always verify your estimate with your conveyancer or local revenue office. This tool is for estimation only and not a substitute for professional tax advice.
+Why do stamp duty rates vary so much between locations?
Each state, region, or country sets its own property tax policy. Stamp duty is one of the main revenue sources for local governments, so rates reflect local fiscal needs, property market conditions, and policy priorities (like encouraging first home buyer participation). This is why a $1 million property can have very different duty costs in different parts of the country.