Fact sheets

Homebuying Guide

From the moment you first decide to move, the cost clock starts ticking. The whole process can be daunting - where exactly do you start?

That's why we've put together this three-part guide to make life a little easier for you.

Fees

What you can expect to pay in fees on top of the purchase price.

Buying a home is not simply the price you pay. If you don't budget for extra costs, you will find it difficult to enjoy your new home. And you certainly won't be able to afford a social life!

An overall guide is around two percent for homes up to £250,000.

For example:

  • Estate agency fees - at 1.5 percent on a £100,000 home will be around £1,500.
  • Removals - the average cost of removals for a three-bedroomed semi-detached house in England and Wales is just under £400.
  • Legal fees - for a £150,000 home this could be almost £1,000.

A checklist for working out your likely costs.

For buyers

  • Holding deposit.
  • Legal fees.
  • Stamp duty (if over £125,000).
  • Full deposit.
  • Surveyor’s fees.
  • Local authority search fees.
  • Removal and insurance costs.
  • Mortgage set up charges.
  • Buildings insurance.

For sellers

  • Legal fees.
  • Estate Agents.
  • Removal costs

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