Get your finances in order

Part 4: Calculate your total moving costs

Many first-time buyers only think about saving for a deposit. However there are many other costs you should save for and these can amount to several thousand pounds.

If you are looking to buy property, some of the additional costs you may need to consider include:

  • Stamp duty (See below)
  • Property surveyors (Estimate between £400 and £1,500)
  • Conveyancing fees (Estimate between £500 to £1,500)
  • Mortgage Valuation fees (Estimate £350)
  • Removal fees (Varies depending on house size and distance from £800)
  • Financial Advisor Fee (Estimate between £0 and £1,000)

To read more about what each of these costs mean check out this article from bankrate.com

Stamp Duty Explained

Stamp Duty is the tax payable to the government for purchasing a residential property in the UK. It can vary depending on if the property is in England, Wales or Scotland. It also varies based on the house price and finally your reason for the purchase. For example if you are a first-time buyer or buying a second home.

Good news for first-time buyers, there is currently no stamp duty for purchasing a property for less than £300,000 in England so this will help to lower costs.

Work out your estimated stamp duty using the calculator below:

Stamp Duty Calculator (England)

Learn more about Move Costs

Get conveyancing solicitor quotes

Complete with a cost breakdown and reviews

If you are thinking of making an offer or have just had one accepted you need to find a conveyancing solicitor. Get quotes from solicitors ahead of time so that you don’t have to stress.

Get quotes for a survey

Identify potential future issues with your new home

Once the sale begins it is a good idea to consider getting a survey. This is different to the survey carried out by the bank and you can choose the right level of detail based on your concerns and the age of the property. Click to learn more.

Get a more accurate estimate of your move costs

A detailed calculator by comparemymove.com

Getting a clear estimate on your move costs can help you plan. Thats why we recommend using this helpful tool from comparemymove.com to get a full breakdown. They can even help you find suppliers if you need.

What are my next steps?

Create a deposit plan

Now you have a good idea of the mortgage amount, required deposit and move costs its time to put together a deposit plan.

Complete with savings tips, information on the governments help to buy schemes and a savings calculator so you can set a goal and start making your dream of owning a property a reality.

Need more help? Find for your perfect mortgage adviser

Talk to a friendly mortgage adviser to save time and hassle and get clear and the best next steps for you. They can help you work out your finances. When you are ready they will find you the best deal for you and make your mortgage application easy. And better still our advisers can also help you put together the right team to ensure your sale goes smoothly. Answering all your questions every step of the way.

Learn more and discover advisers in your area today

  • Get a proper check on what you can afford
  • Find out what deals you qualify for
  • Save time with the application
  • Get help dealing with estate agents and conveyancers
  • Have a dedicated adviser to answer your questions at every stage

Avoid the most common first-time buyer mistakes

Learn about the top first-time buyer mistakes and the best ways to avoid them with our FREE ebook

If you are thinking of buying a house in the next 12 months then you need to make sure you get this. It's packed with examples of the most common mistakes.

  • Covers every stage from planning your finances to the sales process
  • Easy to read
  • Packed with tips to help you avoid the most common mistakes
  • Receive on going tips to your inbox

The legal part. Move Engine is a business set up to help buyers through online help such as the article above. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of our tools and articles you should always seek your own personal advice for your specific circumstances from an FCA approved advisor or lender. Move Engine can not accept responsibility for your actions as a result of the generic information supplied on our site and tools. If you notice a problem with any of the tools or information provided then please report it to hello @ move-engine.com.

Remember: Nothing is impossible. Sometimes all you need is a plan.