Second home owners face 100 percent tax hikes in England

In Cornwall, England, the local council has initiated a significant tax rise affecting second-home owners. This decision has prompted concern and uncertainty among those who own vacation properties in the area, with several residents receiving formal notifications regarding the increase. Among those affected are sisters Deborah Penn and Melanie O'Hagan, who purchased their two-bedroom cottage by the sea in Penzance over a decade ago using inheritance funds. The sisters have been visiting the region since childhood and feel a deep connection to their community. The rise in council tax is reportedly as high as 100%, which poses a serious financial challenge for many second-home owners. For Penn and O'Hagan, who are retired and rely on a fixed income, this sudden financial burden means they may need to reconsider their investment in the property. Their situation is a reflection of the broader trend as councils across England tend to target second-home owners as a means to increase revenue. As more second-home owners receive similar warnings, the collective sentiment is concern over the threat to local communities and family legacies in picturesque areas like Cornwall. Historically, second homes have been seen as a boon for local economies, bringing tourism and additional spending to small towns. However, the increasing number of second properties can also strain local resources and affect housing availability for residents. In light of the recent development, some owners have begun to list their properties for sale. Penn and O'Hagan’s dilemma is emblematic of a larger debate surrounding the treatment of second homes in tourist regions, where local governments attempt to balance financial needs with the well-being of the community. As council tax hikes threaten the viability of owning a second home, the future of these relationships between residents, local authorities, and property owners hangs in the balance.