The deposit is just the start. This module adds up everything you'll spend - from solicitor fees to the sofa - so the total cost never catches you off guard.
Everyone plans for the deposit. Far fewer plan for the solicitor, the survey, the mortgage arrangement fee, the removals company, the first round of furniture, and the boiler that breaks three weeks after you move in. These extras can add £5,000–£15,000 to the cost of buying - sometimes more.
The good news: none of these are surprises if you plan for them now. Work through each section below and enter realistic estimates. Then add a contingency buffer on top.
| Cost | Typical range | Your estimate (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Stamp duty (SDLT) | Calculated below | |
| Solicitor / conveyancing fees | £1,000–£2,500 | |
| Searches (local authority, drainage, environmental) | £250–£500 | |
| Mortgage arrangement fee | £0–£2,000 (some add to mortgage) | |
| Mortgage broker fee | £0–£500 (many are free) | |
| Survey - HomeBuyer Report | £400–£1,000 | |
| Survey - Full Structural (if needed) | £600–£1,500 | |
| Land Registry fee | £20–£910 (scales with price) | |
| Electronic transfer fee (CHAPS) | £25–£50 |
| Cost | Typical range | Your estimate (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Removal company | £500–£2,000+ | |
| Van hire (DIY move) | £100–£300 | |
| Packing materials | £50–£200 | |
| Storage (if needed) | £100–£500/month | |
| Overnight accommodation (completion day) | £0–£200 |
| Cost | Typical range | Your estimate (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Essential furniture (bed, sofa, dining) | £1,500–£5,000+ | |
| White goods (if not included) | £500–£2,000 | |
| Decorating / painting | £200–£2,000+ | |
| Repairs & maintenance (year 1) | £500–£3,000+ | |
| Buildings insurance (annual) | £150–£500 | |
| Contents insurance (annual) | £100–£300 | |
| Emergency maintenance buffer | Recommend £2,000 minimum | |
| Other (garden, curtains, etc.) | Variable |