How much does it cost to move?

BUYING a new house can be expensive - government figures show a typical housebuyer will pay more than £1,000 by the time he gets the keys to his new home. Selling a house costs even more with the typical seller spending £1,400. For many people the costs will be much higher - the figures don't include stamp duty or removal costs and are based on a £60,000 home. Here are some of the extra's that hit you when you venture into the property market.

Surveys - the cost of a property survey can vary from £200 for a homebuyer's report to more than £400 for a building or structural survey.

Conveyancing - again fees vary according to the property, but you should expect to shell out at least £300 to £500. 

Searches - the local authority search is intended to protect you from nasty surprises after you've bought your new house. It looks for planning proposals such as new roads, changes to road layouts, building developments in the vicinity and alterations to land use or public rights of way. It can cost anything between £50 and £100. 
 
Land registration fee - This costs between £150 to £200. It verifies legal ownership of the property, enabling the owner to be registered at a certain address.  

Other costs to bear in mind: 

Council tax - it is up to you to call the council when you move into your new home and register to pay council tax. The council will tell you which "band" you come under, but feel free to challenge the amount you are paying if you feel it is too much.

Removals - costs vary considerably and range from you and your friends making 100 journeys in your car or hiring a large white van and doing it yourself, to employing a removal firm who even pack things up for you. Budget at least £300.

Deposit - most mortgage lenders require at least 5% of the property's value, to be paid on exchange of contract. If you do find a 100% mortgage you will usually discover you are paying a lot over the odds for that luxury.

Repayments - often the first mortgage payment is twice the monthly amount agreed, so you pay a month in arrears. 
 
Mortgage protection - there are various insurance schemes worth considering which will pay your monthly mortgage repayments should you become ill or unemployed.