From April 1, 2025, the tax-free threshold for home movers will drop from £250,000 to £125,000, with further changes for first-time buyers.
More information on the new rates is available here.
But it’s not all doom and gloom for house hunters, with plenty of affordable properties on the market in Antrim and Newtownabbey.
From apartments with great views to a three-bedroom townhouse, here are nine great properties in the borough for £125k and under.

5. 3 Ashley Park, Newtownabbey
This charming mid-terrace property has been well-maintained by the current owners, and features two spacious bedrooms, a cosy lounge with a feature fireplace, and a stylish open-plan kitchen and dining area. Externally there is a rear yard and a front garden. Located off the Doagh Road in Newtownabbey, this property offers easy access to local amenities and convenient routes to Belfast City Centre. It is on the market for offers over £109,950 with Nest Estate Agents. Photo: Nest Estate Agents

6. 8 Avonlea Gardens, Newtownabbey
This modern and tastefully presented ground-floor apartment in a popular area of Newtownabbey is just a ten minute drive from Belfast city centre. With convenient public transport links, it further enjoys having a range of amenities on its doorstep with Whiteabbey and Glengormley villages just a short drive away. Internally it comprises of its own private entrance through to a hallway, living room, separate kitchen, bathroom, and two well-proportioned bedrooms. Externally, at the front of the property there is generous off-street parking and to the rear, a private garden finished in lawn and paving, with a concrete shed perfect for extra storage. Further benefits include gas fired central heating. It is on the market for offers over £80,000 with Forsythe Residential. Photo: Forsythe Residential

7. 8 Green Road, Ballyclare
This beautifully presented mid-terrace townhouse is situated close to Ballyclare town centre and local amenities. The well-planned internal accommodation comprises an excellent size lounge open plan to the dining room; a well fitted kitchen; a white, four piece bathroom suite; two bedrooms to first floor, and a large bedroom to the second floor which is currently sectioned to allow for two separate spaces. The property further benefits from oil fired central heating and double glazing. It is on the market for offers over £119,950 with Hunter Campbell. Photo: Hunter Campbell

8. 21 Fernlea Gardens, Ballyclare
This well presented mid-terrace property, situated in the heart of Ballyclare comprises of three bedrooms, a family bathroom, a large living room and open plan kitchen/dining area. Externally the property enjoys a front garden finished in lawn and a fully enclosed low maintenance rear garden finished in brick paving, with an outbuilding that is currently converted to a playroom, but could benefit from multiple uses. The property is conveniently located close to the town centre, within walking distance to local school, shops, public transport links and local parks, including Sixmile River Park. It is on the market for offers over £109,950 with Nest Estate Agents. Photo: Nest Estate Agents

