Commentators suggested that the Chancellor could introduce an extra 2% Stamp Duty tier for properties worth between £250,000 to £300,000 in the Budget today.

The Financial Times predicted an extra tier could be introduced in the spirit of generosity and financially supported by the housing boom.

“A new 2% Stamp Duty rate could be introduced on houses valued between £250,000 and £300,000 to tackle distortions as the tax jumps from 1 to 3% on sales over £250,000.

“The costs might be offset by increases to top rates affecting buyers of expensive properties,” it added.

However, no change was made to the slab tax structure, but the Chancellor announced further changes to Stamp Duty for those buying through a company with all properties valued at over £500,000 hit with a 15% tax rate from midnight tonight.