đź’· The Hidden Costs of Buying Your First Home (That No One Warns You About)
So, you’ve saved your deposit, found your dream home, and budgeted for your mortgage repayments — but wait. There’s a handful of extra costs that can sneak up on you if you’re not prepared. Let’s make sure there are no surprises.
🧾 Solicitor Fees
You’ll need a solicitor or conveyancer to handle all the legal bits of buying your home. Prices vary, but expect to pay somewhere between £800 and £1,500 depending on the property and the complexity of the sale.
🏦 Mortgage Fees
Some lenders charge an arrangement or booking fee. This can be a few hundred pounds, sometimes more. Your mortgage advisor will explain what’s involved and whether it’s worth paying upfront or adding to your loan.
🏡 Survey Costs
Even if your lender does a basic valuation, it’s often worth having your own homebuyer’s survey done. It can flag up potential issues before you commit — and potentially save you thousands later.
🪜 Moving Costs
Whether you’re hiring a van, paying professional movers, or bribing friends with pizza, moving day always comes with a few expenses. Plan for it early so you’re not caught short.
⚙️ The Little Things Add Up
New locks, furniture, curtains, paint — all those finishing touches that make a house feel like home. They add up faster than you think, so it’s worth setting aside a small budget for these extras.
đź’ˇ Our tip:
Plan for these costs from the start. Knowing what’s coming means you won’t have to dip into your emergency fund or rely on credit once you move in.
đź“ž Need help breaking down what you can really afford?
Our mortgage team can give you a clear picture of all the costs involved, so you can buy with confidence (and keep a little left over for that takeaway on moving night).