As the Autumn Budget 2025’s later-than-usual date is confirmed for 26th of November, many investors are already preparing their strategies. With Chancellor Rachel Reeves expected to announce significant reforms to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and Inheritance Tax (IHT), property owners and investors are moving quickly to complete disposals ahead of November tax rises in October sales.
For those holding long-term assets, the upcoming Robinson & Hall October property auction is proving a key opportunity. Scheduled for 22 October, with an entry deadline of 26 September, it offers investors the chance to act before changes potentially reshape the tax landscape.
Tax Pressures Mount Ahead of Reeves’s Budget
Reeves has been clear that while the economy “isn’t broken,” it “isn’t working well enough.” With a £40 billion fiscal gap to fill, investors widely expect stealth taxes and targeted measures. Reeves has promised not to increase Income Tax, VAT, or National Insurance for “working people”, however, there are concerns over other revenue-raising moves, including speculation that landlords could be charged National Insurance contributions on rental income. This adds a further blow to the already squeezed buy-to-let market.
Economists warn that with higher gilt yields adding billions to government debt interest costs, and a series of fiscal U-turns earlier this year, Reeves faces one of the toughest budgets in recent history. Ruth Curtice, director of the Resolution Foundation, has already called this budget statement “likely one of the toughest second budgets in living memory.”
OBR Forecasts and Economic Growth Challenges
The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) has revised its productivity forecasts, which are often more optimistic than institutions like the Bank of England. However, expectations point to a weaker growth outlook, increasing pressure on Reeves’s fiscal targets.
Despite these headwinds, Reeves appears determined not to reopen the spending review plans that caused internal party friction earlier this year. Instead, she is likely to pursue tax rises, hoping to avoid undermining investor confidence while balancing the government’s need for revenue.
Key Announcements Expected
Reeves is expected to unveil several high-profile announcements before the Autumn Statement 2025, including support for Northern Powerhouse Rail and reforms to the UK planning system. Further measures, such as the UK-EU reset, the May India trade deal, and new regulatory changes, may also be highlighted to persuade the OBR to improve its economic outlook.
However, Reeves must also tread carefully to avoid unsettling UK bond markets, which are crucial to government borrowing. While gilt yields recently retreated after hitting a 27-year high, volatility remains. Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey noted that bond movements have been driven by global trends, with the UK “in the middle of the pack.”
Investors Eye October Auctions
With rising uncertainty, many investors are not waiting for Reeves’s budget. Instead, they are taking advantage of October property auctions to secure sales before potential tax increases take effect.
In particular, the Robinson & Hall October auction draws interest from landlords and property investors who wish to mitigate risk and maximise value ahead of fiscal tightening. Acting early could prove vital for those concerned about possible hikes in Capital Gains Tax and Inheritance Tax, which may significantly affect future returns.
Auctioneers are already preparing for strong demand, with a potential last-minute surge in entries expected before the September closing date. We strongly advise investors to get an auction appraisal and not to wait until the closing date, especially as demand may exceed capacity.
Wider Economic Risks
Beyond domestic tax changes, external pressures also weigh on the UK economy. Global trade tensions, particularly those involving the US, and inflationary pressures continue to affect households and businesses. Business leaders warn that a tax-heavy budget could further slow growth, adding to the financial strain on consumers and property markets.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has bolstered his economic advisory team by appointing former Bank of England deputy governor Minouche Shafik and Reeves’s former deputy, Darren Jones. These moves are seen as an attempt to maintain tighter control over policy economics.
Final Word for Property Investors
For property owners and investors considering a sale, the Robinson & Hall October property auction is a timely opportunity. With the Autumn Budget expected to bring Capital Gains Tax increases, potential Inheritance Tax reforms, and further measures targeting landlords, acting now could be a strategic advantage.
Auction appraisals are free and without obligation. Early enquiries are strongly recommended given the heightened interest ahead of the Autumn Budget. October could prove the best window for investors to secure sales before the Chancellor reshapes the tax environment.
