Initially signed as investor but now may move in – stamp duty?

Quick question:
I am buying an apartment - at the time I signed 18 months ago I intended it to be an investment but it has taken so long to complete that circumstances have changed and I may now move in as owner occupier. If I do I will not have to pay stamp duty. At what stage do I have to inform my solicitor as to my intentions? Will he have much different work to do if I go in as an owner occupier now?

Also if payng stamp duty does it have to be paid through the solicitor at the same time as signing.

thanks

"At what stage do I have to inform my solicitor as to my intentions? "

Tell him now. The Lease needs to reflect your status. Also you need to tell your lender - will they have different requirements if status has changed?

"Will he have much different work to do if I go in as an owner occupier now? "
No -but you do need to tell him.

"Also if payng stamp duty does it have to be paid through the solicitor at the same time as signing. "
Yes.

mf

Hi Dad!
payment is at time of closing. The stamp is paid to have the deeds registered or "stamped". Should obviously tell people now though, your mortgage rate may be cheapre too.