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Q I am planning to sell my house and buy a new property with my partner but I know there have been changes since I first bought my property in 2012. Is there anything I should be aware of? A You are right that there have been changes since you bought your property. Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (LBTT) must now be paid on properties of £145,000 or more. Additional Dwelling Supplement, introduced in 2016, is a supplementary charge that places an additional tax on purchases of additional residential properties in Scotland – anyone buying a second home or buy-to-let properties has to pay a supplement of 4% of the total purchase price of any additional residential property.

It’s important to be aware that this could affect you if you already own a property and buy a new home before you have concluded the sale of your current property or if you’re unable to conclude your purchase and sale on the same day. You may need to budget to pay the extra supplement up front.

If the sale of your first property is concluded within 18 months you may be able to claim the money back, but not in all circumstances so it is important to get advice as soon as possible.

Speak to your solicitor who can help to explain the risks as well as the other potential costs involved in buying or selling your property.