Second homes double tax blow 'killing sales'

A GRAN claims a double tax blow for second-home owners is stopping her selling a dream cottage - despite dropping the price by £100,000.

- By Ruby Cline

Debbie Pugh-Jones has lived in Golant, south Cornwall for 11 years but wants to move to Bath to be near her grandchildren.

The two-bedroom home was reportedly worth £425,000 during the pandemic but she put it on the market in August at £400,000, hoping for a quick sale.

There was little interest and despite several reductions it remains unsold at £325,000.

Travel writer Debbie, 69, claims the market has been badly hit by a rise in stamp duty on second homes and a doubling of council tax.