The Hidden Costs of Moving
The deposit and stamp duty are just the start. A typical home move involves: conveyancing (£1,200–£2,000 + VAT including searches), survey (£400–£1,500 depending on RICS Level 1, 2 or 3), removals (£600–£1,800), estate agent fees on your sale (1–1.5% + VAT), EPC if selling (£60–£120), mortgage arrangement and valuation fees (£0–£2,000), and mail redirection.
Survey Levels Explained
A RICS Level 2 Home Survey (~£400–£700) suits conventional properties in reasonable condition. A Level 3 Building Survey (~£700–£1,500) is recommended for older, larger, altered or non-standard properties — it's the most thorough inspection and typically pays for itself in negotiating power when defects are found.
Where You Can Save
- Compare conveyancing quotes — fees vary widely for identical work
- Mid-week, mid-month removals are cheaper than Friday/month-end
- Negotiate estate agent fees — 1% is achievable in competitive areas