ILKLEY house buyers will save an average of £4,500 thanks to a stamp duty holiday announced today by Chancellor and Yorkshire MP, Rishi Sunak.

From today until March 31, Stamp Duty will only be payable on properties priced at £500,000 and over.

Will Linley, chief executive and co-founder of residential sales and letting agents, Linley & Simpson, said it was a major boost for the industry and one that should turbo charge the Yorkshire property market.

Mr Linley said: “Whilst we have seen the property market making a steady post-Covid recovery, today’s announcement by the Chancellor is very welcome news indeed.

“There was a fear that its introduction would be delayed, which would have immediately put the brakes on house sales.

“The stamp duty holiday will make a huge difference for those purchasing properties up to £500,000 and will encourage some to look at flats and houses that were originally out of their price bracket.

“For those contemplating moving house – or taking the first step on the property ladder – now’s the time to do it.

“And with many lenders having stopped providing 90 per cent mortgages, the savings will certainly benefit those struggling to find a deposit.”