Latest government proposals to increase stamp duty on non-energy efficient homes might mean that new-build properties become more desirable among buyers.

By increasing stamp duty by 0.5% on properties with an F or G energy rating, the government will penalise those who have failed to bring their homes up to standard. And with the cost of insulation sometimes costing thousands of pounds, potential buyers might well be steered towards a new-build as opposed to forking out on an older property.

In April 2010 the average price of properties sold in Kent was £240,976. If coalition government plans to increase stamp duty go ahead, this means stamp duty would increase, on average, by £1200.