THE gift of part exchange, low energy bills and the chance move before stamp duty rates change, mean now is the time to buy a new home in Ross-on-Wye.

Edenstone Homes is educating potential buyers of impending revisions to stamp duty, which could add thousands to the cost of homeownership.

While the rates rise for completions from April 1, 2025, the company has a number of homes available at St Mary’s Garden village.

The company’s operations director Chris Edge said: “It’s well-known that property searches increase just after Christmas, but there’s no time like the present when it comes to looking for a new home in Ross.

“With the gift of part exchange, homeowners will be able to climb the property ladder quickly and simply, without being entangled in a slow-moving chain.

“This means you’ll have the sale of your old home wrapped up in a matter of weeks, enabling you to move in before changes to stamp duty come into effect.”

Mr Edge pointed out that Some of the homes Edenstone is building in Ross are 65 per cent more efficient than older properties and now have solar panels, helping reduce reliance on the grid and potentially lower bills further.”

A three-bedroom property is available under a Low Cost Home Ownership scheme, at a 50 per cent discount to market value. The scheme is subject to criteria, including a local connection.

Mr Edge said that another three-bedroom semi-detached property is available from £289,995 and is stamp duty free for first time buyers. But buying this property as your next home would mean paying £1,999 in stamp duty, at current rates. This would rise to £4,499 from April.

St Mary’s Garden Village will eventually feature 348 homes. Many of the community facilities being provided as part of the new neighbourhood.