🏡✨ Exciting news for holiday homeowners in Wales! The Welsh Government is shaking things up with proposed changes to tax rules for self-catering properties. 📊🏖️
Since April 2023, owners of holiday lets have faced strict criteria, needing properties available for 252 days a year and let for 182 days to qualify for non-domestic rates instead of council tax. But with many owners getting unexpected hefty council tax bills, some relief might be on the horizon. 🚨💰
New proposals include more flexible options! How about averaging your 182-day letting requirement over two or three years? Perfect for those tricky years with unforeseen circumstances. 📅✂️ And there’s more! Giving a charitable twist, up to 14 days of free stays donated to charity could count towards your letting days. 🎁❤️
Plus, a 12-month grace period is on the table, potentially giving owners more time to adjust before properties switch from non-domestic to domestic rates. 🔄⏳
Finance and Welsh Language Secretary, Mark Drakeford, highlighted the importance of tourism in Wales, ensuring a balance between communities and visitors. 🌍🏞️ With 60% of properties already meeting the current rules, these tweaks aim to support those feeling the squeeze. 🤝
The consultation is open until November 20, so don’t miss your chance to have your say! 📣🗓️ Let’s support our holiday home community and make tourism in Wales as welcoming and beneficial as possible! 💬🇬🇧