Moving House Cost Calculator

Moving House Costs Guide

What should I know about Stamp Duty Land Tax?

SDLT is payable on property purchases in England and Northern Ireland. Standard rates (2026/27): 0% up to £250,000. 5% on £250,001-£925,000. 10% on £925,001-£1,500,000. 12% above £1,500,000. First-time buyers: 0% up to £425,000 (on total purchase price up to £625,000). Additional dwellings (second homes, buy-to-let): standard rates plus 3% surcharge on each band. SDLT must be paid within 14 days of completion. Higher rates apply to non-UK residents (2% surcharge) and companies purchasing above £

What's the key thing to understand about Conveyancing and Legal Fees?

Conveyancing is the legal transfer of property ownership. Costs: buyer's solicitor £1,000-2,000 (plus disbursements — Land Registry fee, searches). Seller's solicitor £800-1,500. Searches (local authority, drainage, environmental): £250-400 for the buyer. Land Registry registration fee: £20-910 depending on property price. Electronic transfer fee (CHAPS payment): £25-40. Use a conveyancing comparison site but do not choose solely on price — slow or poor conveyancing can cost far more in delays,

What should I know about Survey Types and Costs?

Three main survey types: Mortgage Valuation: approximately £150-1,500 — done for the lender's benefit, not yours. It does not reveal defects. RICS Home Survey Level 2 (formerly HomeBuyer Report): £400-900 — identifies significant defects and urgent repairs but does not look under floorboards or behind walls. RICS Home Survey Level 3 (formerly Full Building Survey): £600-1,500 — detailed assessment of structure and all accessible elements. Recommended for older properties, unusual construction, or where you're planning significant renovation work and need to understand the structure before committing. A Level 3 survey gives cost estimates for any defects found, which is invaluable for renegotiating the purchase price if serious problems turn up.

What do I need to know about Removal Company Costs?

Removal company costs depend primarily on volume of belongings and distance. Average UK move costs: small 1-2 bed flat, local: £400-800. Medium 3-bed house, local: £800-1,500. Large 4-bed house, local: £1,500-3,000. Long-distance (100+ miles): add 30-50%. Timing: Monday to Wednesday moves are cheapest; Friday is most expensive (everyone wants Friday). Summer and school holiday weekends are more expensive. Always get 3 quotes — prices vary by 30-40%. Packing service adds £200-600 but significantly reduces the stress and time of a move — most companies offer full-pack, part-pack (fragile items only), or self-pack options. Get quotes in writing with a clear inventory, check reviews and BAR (British Association of Removers) membership, and book 4-6 weeks ahead for weekend and month-end slots, which fill up fastest.