Stamp Duty - Selling a property before it is built

[30Something]

Hi,

Perhaps someone can help me with my query.

I recently purchased an apartment from the plans - Deposit is paid. At the time I guess I jumped at the property and have since regretted purchasing in this area.
The Apartments are under construction.

Can I sell the apartment before I actually take ownership of it and if so will I have to pay stamp duty given that I don't yet have access to the deeds.

I would appreciate your comments here as I have heard many different suggestions as to what I should do.

P.S: The developer is not keen on refunding deposits and anyway I think the value of the property has risen since I put down the deposit 6 months ago.

Thanks

 

[ClubMan]

There are several existing threads on the whole issue of "flipping" a property in this way and the implications for ownership and tax. However I have never seen the questions answered satisfactorily/authoritatively here on AAM to date. You should probably get independent, professional advice either way.