Homes that do not attract stamp duty

This studio flat is on the market for £169,950. Inside, it's in a fairly decent state, with a tiled bathroom, neutral cream walls and double glazing. Essentially, it's sufficiently enough of a blank canvas for you to make your own mark on – the cheap-looking laminate is one example of what you might choose to upgrade.
Andrews Estate agents 020 7326 8171 Photograph: Andrews Estate Agents

£175,000 might seem like a lot for a one-bedroom apartment, but considering this one is part of a Georgian grade-II listed mansion, and is stunning inside as well as out, it might actually be worth it. Long Fox Manor in Bristol is set in nine acres of land – residents have access to a spa, sauna and tennis courts. Inside, the apartment is well proportioned, with a large living-dining space and bedroom, and although the décor is funky, it is quite distinctive so keep in mind redecorating costs.
Davies & Way 0117 986 3681 Photograph: rightmove.co.uk

For £150,000 you could snap up this two-bedroom flat in Leith, Edinburgh, in a traditional grey-stone building. Inside, it is neatly done up with neutral walls and carpets throughout – the nicest feature is the big bay window which overlooks the street and floods the sitting room with light. You get a lot of space for your money – both bedrooms are well-sized doubles – and there's access to a communal garden too.
DJ Alexander 0845 305 0495 Photograph: rightmove.co.uk

This semi in Stockport is right at the stamp duty cut off point, at £175,000 – not bad considering you get three bedrooms, a loft conversion, a garden and a cellar for storage or extra workspace. You will however need to spend some cash doing it up – the kitchen is fitted but looks outdated, as do the rest of the interiors. There are however some nice Victorian features.
Main & Main 0161 431 6635 Photograph: rightmove.co.uk

This four-bed family home in Crook, Durham, is on the market for £175,000. There's lots of space, with two reception rooms, dining room, kitchen and separate utility room on the ground floor and a master bedroom with ensuite plus three smaller bedrooms and bathroom upstairs. Patio doors overlook the back garden, which is small and a little overgrown, but there's room for two cars on the driveway.
Pattinson Estate Agents 0845 1461 589 Photograph: rightmove.co.uk