Moving house in the UK involves a long list of financial costs beyond the headline purchase price - solicitor fees, survey costs, stamp duty, removal costs, and the dozens of smaller expenses that accumulate quickly. Research by moving companies suggests the average moving cost in the UK is GBP1,200-3,000 on top of the property transaction itself. Failing to budget for these costs is one of the most common moving mistakes, leading to last-minute financial stress and, in some cases, transaction failures. This checklist covers every financial task for a smooth move.
Before You Start the Process
Before you make an offer on a property, get your finances sorted. Get a Mortgage Agreement in Principle: this tells you exactly how much you can borrow and shows sellers you are a serious buyer. Budget for all the upfront costs: mortgage arrangement fee (GBP0-2,000), deposit (typically 5-20% of purchase price), and Stamp Duty (if applicable - use the HMRC SDLT calculator). Check your credit report: clean up any errors, reduce credit card balances, and avoid applying for credit in the months before your mortgage application. Compare mortgage deals: use a whole-of-market mortgage broker who can find the best deal for your circumstances. Set a moving budget: removals (GBP300-1,500), solicitor fees (GBP800-2,000), surveys (GBP300-1,500), and other costs - budget GBP3,000-6,000 for the move itself.
During the Conveyancing Process
Once your offer is accepted, your solicitor will manage the financial aspects of the conveyancing process. Key costs include: conveyancing solicitor fees (GBP800-2,000, including searches and registration); local authority searches (GBP200-400); Land Registry fees (GBP100-500 depending on property price); and bank transfer fees (GBP20-50). Your mortgage arrangement fee may be due at this stage. The conveyancing process typically takes 8-12 weeks, and you will be asked to pay various invoices along the way. Keep track of all costs in a dedicated spreadsheet so you know exactly what is due and when. Do not be afraid to question solicitor costs - some charge for items that others include in their headline fee. Get a detailed quote that includes all anticipated costs before instructing a solicitor.
After You Move
The financial tasks do not stop once you have the keys. Update your address: notify your bank, employer, HMRC, DVLA, insurance providers, subscription services, and electoral registration. Redirect your post: set up Royal Mail's redirection service for at least 6 months (GBP60-80). Review your insurance: home contents insurance must be updated for your new property. You may need to change your car insurance postcode and potentially your life insurance and critical illness cover if your new property changes your circumstances. Energy and utilities: set up accounts with your new supplier promptly, submit meter readings, and check whether your old supplier owes you a refund. Council tax: register with your new local council immediately to avoid any missed bills or penalties. Finally, take time to review your overall financial situation in your new home - a move often changes your household finances significantly.
- moving house
- conveyancing
- removals
- survey
- financial planning