Moving house is one of life’s biggest milestones, but it’s also one of the most expensive. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, selling a property, or relocating to a family home, the costs of moving house in Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire can add up quickly.
From solicitor fees to removals, stamp duty to estate agent charges, it’s important to know what to expect so you can budget properly and avoid unwanted surprises. Here’s a breakdown of the true costs of moving home in our region.
Buying Costs
If you’re purchasing a property in Lincolnshire, these are some of the main expenses to plan for:
Stamp Duty
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) applies to property purchases in England. The amount you’ll pay depends on the price of your new home and whether you’re a first-time buyer or purchasing an additional property. For many, this can be one of the largest upfront costs, averaging around £4,600 nationally.
For example, if you buy a house in Lincolnshire for £269,000. The Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) you owe will be calculated as follows:
- 0% on the first £125,000 = £0
- 2% on the next £125,000 = £2,500
- 5% on the remaining £19,000 = £950
Total SDLT = £3,450
Surveyor’s Fee
Buying a house? A survey is essential to check for hidden issues. A basic survey costs around £400, while a more detailed building survey is closer to £650. It’s money well spent to avoid unexpected repair bills down the line.
Conveyancing Fees
A solicitor or conveyancer will manage the legal side of your purchase. In Lincolnshire, conveyancing fees for buyers usually fall between £900–£1,200 depending on the complexity of the transaction.
Mortgage Costs
Most lenders charge an arrangement fee to set up your mortgage, typically between £1,000–£2,000. You may also face a mortgage valuation fee, which could cost from £150 up to £1,500 depending on the property.
Other Charges
Don’t forget smaller but necessary extras, such as the electronic transfer fee (around £50) to move funds between banks. Optional Homebuyers Protection Insurance is also worth considering at £74.
Selling Costs
If you’re selling a property in Lincolnshire to fund your move, the following costs apply:
Estate Agent Fees
Estate agent fees are usually the biggest selling cost. Traditional high street estate agents charge between 1% – 1.5% of the property price, which on a £275,000 home comes to roughly £4,125.
Conveyancing Fees
Legal fees for selling your property average between £900 – £1,200. This covers the transfer of ownership and dealing with the buyer’s solicitor.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
You’ll need to provide an EPC when selling. Local providers typically charge about £60.
All in all, selling a property in Lincolnshire costs around £4,900.
General Moving Costs
Once the buying and selling are sorted, it’s time to plan the move itself:
Removals
Costs depend on the size of your home and the distance travelled. For example, moving from a three-bedroom home in Scunthorpe to another within 50 miles could cost around £1,200 with a removals company. However, prices in Lincolnshire vary widely, from £250 to £4,000, so it’s always best to get quotes from local firms early.
Mail Redirection
Royal Mail’s redirection service ensures you don’t miss important post. It starts from £41.50 for three months.
On average, moving day expenses in Lincolnshire amount to around £590, but could rise depending on distance and services required.
Renting Out Your Current Property
For homeowners in Lincolnshire who are keeping their existing property to rent while buying another, the costs are slightly different. You’ll still pay standard buying fees, but because it’s a second property, you’ll face a higher rate of Stamp Duty. You’ll also need to budget for landlord essentials such as compliance checks, insurance, and letting agent fees if you want professional management.
Planning Ahead
The total cost of moving house in Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire will depend on your circumstances.
On average, the combined costs of buying, selling, and moving add up to more than £13,000. While it’s a significant outlay, careful planning and shopping around can save you thousands. Comparing conveyancers, estate agents, and removal firms locally is a smart way to keep costs under control.
Always set aside a buffer in your budget for unexpected costs, whether it’s urgent repairs highlighted in a survey or last-minute removals support. A little extra planning now will make your move smoother and less stressful later.
Need more information about the costs of moving house in Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire? Get in touch with your local branch today and our team of property experts can help you.
