England’s typical home-moving bill reaches £17,413

Buying and selling a home in England now brings typical moving expenses of £17,413. Really Moving says that inflation-adjusted costs have climbed 75 per cent over the past decade. The total has eased by £418 since last year, helped by a decline in the median purchase price from £395,000 to £390,000.

Tax is the largest expense, with the typical stamp duty charge reaching £9,500. Estate agents account for another £4,473. The remaining bill includes removals, legal work, a property survey and the Energy Performance Certificate required when a home is listed. Regional differences are substantial because property values affect both tax and agent charges, while local providers set varying prices for legal and moving services.

First-time buyers face a much smaller typical bill of £2,293 because they are purchasing without also selling. Their median home price is £250,000, and the larger stamp duty allowance for new buyers means the average buyer in this group avoids the tax. The comparison firm says high transaction expenses can discourage households from moving for work, seeking more space or downsizing.