Welcome to our Home-Buying Cost Checklist. Buying a home in the UK is more than just the purchase price and deposit. You must also budget for legal fees, surveys, tax, moving-in and set-up costs. Without proper planning, you could face unexpected expenses that add thousands. Use this checklist to see what you need, when you will pay it, and how much to budget.
What Are the Main Costs When Buying a Home?
You face several costs when buying a home.
These are the main categories:
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Deposit
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Mortgage fees
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Valuation and survey
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Conveyancing and legal fees
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Stamp Duty or Land Tax
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Moving and setup costs
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Insurance
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Ongoing property costs
Each category has its own timing and amount. Costs vary with property type and location.
Save & Prepare Before You Buy
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Deposit: Most lenders expect a minimum of 5 %-10 % of the property value. A larger deposit helps you secure better rates.
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Mortgage arrangement fee: Many lenders charge a fee ranging from £1,000-£2,000+ even before you borrow.
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Credit check, affordability review and initial advice fees: If you use a broker, check if they charge a consultation fee.
Transaction & Legal Fees
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Valuation fee: £250-£1,500, depending on property size and value.
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Survey costs: A basic survey might cost a few hundred pounds, but a full structural report could cost over £1,000.
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Solicitor or conveyancer: Typically £850-£1,500 plus searches and Land Registry fees.
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Removal costs and new home setup: Budget between £445-£700 on average for moving costs.
Taxes & Stamp Duty
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Stamp Duty Land Tax (England & NI): Example thresholds – no tax up to £250,000, 5 % on £250,001-£925,000, 10 % on £925,001-£1.5m.
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For first-time buyers, there may be relief up to £300,000 of the purchase price.
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Budgeting tip: In extreme cases, these taxes can make up 0%-15 % of the property value.
Moving-In & Initial Setup Costs
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Utility connections, furnishing, decorating, security systems – these can cost £1,000+ depending on the home.
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Home insurance and building cover: Some lenders require insurance from day one.
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Survey unexpected issues: Always keep a contingency budget (say £2,000-£5,000) for repairs or adaptations post-purchase.
Ongoing & Hidden Costs
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Maintenance and unexpected repairs: According to the HomeOwners Alliance 2025 survey, 37 % of homeowners regretted buying because they underestimated ongoing costs.
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Service charges and ground rent (in leasehold properties) – check historic records and future estimates.
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Council tax, utilities and home-improvement plans should be included in your monthly budget.
Checklist
| Item | Estimated cost (general UK guide) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit | 5 %-20 % of purchase price | Larger deposit = better borrowing terms |
| Mortgage arrangement fees | £1,000-£2,000+ | Some lenders offer “fee free” deals |
| Valuation & survey | £250-£1,500+ | Higher for larger or older homes |
| Conveyancing/solicitor | £850-£1,500+ + searches | Get clear quote before instructing |
| Stamp Duty / Land Tax | 0 %-15 %+ of purchase price | Depends on first-time buyer status |
| Moving in & set-up costs | £500-£5,000+ | Big variable depending on the property |
| Contingency for repairs | £2,000-£5,000 (or more) | Very wise to budget |
| Ongoing hidden costs | Variable (annually) | Leasehold fees, maintenance, tax |
Ready to take the next step?
Buying a home is a major financial commitment. Use this Home-Buying Cost Checklist to prepare your budget and avoid surprises. If you’re unsure how much you can borrow or want help finding a suitable mortgage adviser, visit our Mortgage Services page. If you are ready to connect with a qualified adviser, check our guide on How to Find a Mortgage Broker.
Use our free adviser directory to connect with a broker who can walk you through the full cost picture and tailor a mortgage solution that fits you.
Thank you for reading our publication “Home-Buying Cost Checklist UK | All Major Upfront Expenses .” Stay “Connect“-ed for more updates soon!