Firm introduces ‘Don’t move, Don’t pay’ SDLT commitment

Law firm Dutton Gregory has launched the latest of its marketing stunts, this time aimed at first time home buyers hoping to beat the SDLT exemption deadline on 31st March 2025. 

In previous years the firm has introduced reduced fees for first time buyers and a commitment to ‘can its fees’ if clients’ property purchases do not complete before the date their mortgage offer expires.

The latest initiative pledges to cancel conveyancing fees if the transaction does not complete before the current SDLT exemptions for first time buyers expires. There are, understandably, a number of caveats to the offer and Dutton Gregory’s terms and conditions state disbursements including ID checks, searches, HMLR fees amongst others are still due.

The offer is only applicable where ‘the failure to complete is as a direct result of Dutton Gregory’s act or omission or something within Dutton Gregory’s control,’ with examples including

  • Issues related to chains outside of the firm’s control
  • clients not having their finances in place
  • delays in returning documents and paperwork
  • Searches not coming back, where the client’s chosen mortgage lender is only accepting searches rather than insurance.

Partner and Head of Residential Property Sarah Sams says:

“I have a great team here so, although some may suggest this is a bold move – and in a way it is – I know we won’t let anyone down. We are here when people need us which, for those looking to buy a property, is now”

In order to quality for the offer Dutton Gregory say they must have accepted, in writing, instructions to act on a purchase of residential property by 5pm on 21st March 202 and is only applicable to transactions affected by the SDLT changes.

2 responses

  1. What a great idea! I will be gladly reffer any new clients who are still hoping to make the deadline to Dutton Gregory.

  2. To anyone considering this I would say to potential clients read the small print very very carefully. No firm is going to risk exposing themselves to possible losses so the risk will be all with the buyers. It would have been introduced in December if they were being really fair to people. Just a gimmick but to be fair it has got them publicity.

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