Moving house is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a hefty price tag. Whether you’re stepping onto the property ladder or upsizing to your dream home, understanding the real cost of moving is crucial for budgeting wisely.
From solicitors’ fees and stamp duty to removal costs and ongoing expenses, this guide explores every angle of the moving cost conundrum and how to save along the way.
Related: Home Selling Checklist: Everything You Need to Do Before Listing
The average cost of moving in 2025
According to data from Barclays Bank, UK movers now face average costs ranging from £8,885 to £42,416 (including a 15% deposit on an average home), depending on property types, locations, and whether you’re buying, selling, or both.
Cost breakdown for buying a home
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT)
Stamp duty is often the largest lump sum a buyer pays beyond the deposit. From April 2025, the 2% threshold has been reinstated, raising costs for nearly all buyers.
First-time buyers still benefit from exemptions up to £300,000, but those buying additional properties will face surcharges of up to 17%.
House surveys and valuations
Surveys aren’t legally required, but skipping one is risky. Options include:
| Survey Type | Typical Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| RICS Level 1 (Condition Report) | £300 to £900 | Newer homes, no visible issues |
| RICS Level 2 (Homebuyer Report) | £400 to £1,000 | Most standard purchases |
| RICS Level 3 (Full Structural Survey) | £630 to £1,500 | Older, unusual, or large properties |
Mortgage valuation surveys are separate, costing £100 to £300. However, these are sometimes included in the mortgage deal.
Conveyancing solicitor fees
Legal fees range between £500 and £1,500 for buyers, depending on property value and complexity. Leasehold properties may incur an additional £300, and disbursements (such as searches) add £250 to £700.
Mortgage fees
When budgeting for a mortgage, it’s important to account for arrangement fees, which typically range from £1,000 to £2,000. Broker fees can also apply, with some charging up to 1% of the loan amount, though fee-free brokers are available.
Mortgage protection insurance, while not mandatory, is highly recommended, especially if you have dependents, as it covers your repayments in case of illness, injury, or job loss. Premiums depend on factors like age, occupation, mortgage size, and level of cover, with higher-risk jobs and more comprehensive protection increasing the cost.
What does it cost to sell a home?
Estate agent fees
These vary widely. High street agents: 1% to 2% or more. Online agents typically charge a fixed fee between £300 and £1,500 or around 1% of the sale price. Some basic packages start from £99 but may exclude services like viewings or premium listings, which help your home to get sold. Also, you’re unlikely to get the same level of dedication and service you’d get from a high street agent like Lovelle.
Conveyancing (selling side)
Legal fees for sellers typically range from £500 to £1500. Leasehold sellers may also pay £300 to £800 for a Leasehold Management Pack. These fees also vary based on property type, location, and other complexities involved.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement when selling a property, unless a valid certificate already exists from a previous purchase. It typically costs between £60 and £120, though the exact price can vary based on the property’s size, type, and location. To ensure a fair rate, it’s worth getting quotes from multiple qualified assessors.
Cleaning and decluttering
If your contract requires a clean handover, you may need to factor in additional services such as professional cleaning, rubbish removal, or temporary storage.
Professional cleaning can cost upwards of £100, while rubbish removal charges vary widely, ranging anywhere from £27 to over £250 depending on volume and service provider. If you need to store belongings during the move, weekly storage fees can fall between £25 and £100 or more, depending on the size and location of the unit. These costs can quickly add up, so it’s worth budgeting for them early and comparing quotes where possible.
General moving day costs
Removal services
Removal costs are influenced by several key factors, including the size of your home, the distance to your new property, and any additional services you require, such as packing, disassembly, or specialist handling.
Larger homes typically need bigger vehicles and more staff, while longer distances increase travel time and fuel costs. Optional extras like professional packing or furniture dismantling can also add to the total, so it’s important to get detailed quotes based on your specific needs.
Mail redirection
To avoid missed bills or important correspondence during your move, consider setting up mail redirection through Royal Mail. This ensures the post is forwarded to your new address while you update your details with service providers.
- 3 months: £41.50
- 6 months: £61.00
- 12 months: £87.00
These charges apply per person and also vary for business redirection.
Smart ways to save money when moving house
Plan and get organised
- Set a clear moving budget and track your spending to stay in control
- Start planning your move early to give yourself time to compare options and avoid last-minute costs
- Create a moving checklist to stay organised and ensure nothing gets overlooked
- Schedule your move for midweek or off-peak seasons when rates are generally lower
- Notify utility providers in advance to avoid unnecessary charges or service overlaps
Declutter and downsize
- Go through your home and get rid of items you no longer need or use
- Sell unwanted belongings online or at car boot sales to help cover moving costs
- Donate usable items to charity or give them to friends and family to avoid disposal fees
Save on packing
- Pack your belongings yourself to avoid additional labour fees from movers
- Start packing early to reduce stress and the chance of damage
- Ask friends or family to help with packing, lifting, or childcare on moving day
- Use towels, clothes, and newspapers as protective wraps for fragile items
- Collect free boxes from local supermarkets, shops, or neighbours who’ve recently moved
Compare and choose wisely
- Get quotes from at least three removal companies to find the best value
- Check customer reviews and credentials before making a final decision
- Consider online estate agents that offer fixed fees rather than percentage-based commissions
- Shop around for Energy Performance Certificates and conveyancers to secure competitive pricing
- Look out for service bundles (e.g., removals + packing) that may come with discounts
Explore DIY and low-cost options
- For smaller moves, consider hiring a van and handling the move yourself
- Borrow or rent reusable packing materials to cut down on buying supplies
- Use up food in your fridge and cupboards before the move to reduce waste
- Plan meals in the final days to avoid last-minute grocery runs or takeaways
- Pack a separate essentials box with things like toiletries, chargers, documents, and snacks to avoid unnecessary spending on day one
Let Lovelle help you move smarter
From deposits and duty to moving vans and legal fees, the cost of moving in the UK can be significant. However, with smart planning, price comparisons, and awareness of potential hidden charges, it is possible to reduce the burden.
At Lovelle, we support every stage of your moving journey. Whether you’re buying your first home or selling your family property, our expert team can help you navigate the market, streamline the process, and keep costs under control.
Get in touch with your local Lovelle branch today for a free consultation and start your move the smart way.
Further reading:
Essential DIY Skills for Homeowners
