Selling your home is a big move, and not just emotionally. There are a few costs along the way that might surprise you. So, before the ‘For Sale’ sign goes up, it’s wise to be financially prepared.
Whether you’re downsizing, relocating or moving up the ladder, understanding the real cost of selling can help make your journey smoother and more predictable.
Costs to consider when selling your home
Selling isn’t just about accepting an offer. A number of hidden or unexpected costs can creep in, so let’s break them down.
Prepping for viewing – home revamp fees
First impressions count. You might want to invest in:
- A deep clean or professional staging
- Fresh paintwork
- Minor repairs to flooring, doors, or fittings
- Sprucing up your garden or kerb appeal
These changes can often boost perceived value — and attract more interest.
Surveyor fees
Although buyers often arrange surveys, sellers may commission their own pre-sale surveys to identify any deal-breaking issues early. Depending on the level of detail, expect to pay anywhere from £250 to £1,000.
Conveyancing fees
Conveyancers are legal professionals who handle the nuts and bolts of the sale process.
What will a conveyancer do for you?
They’ll:
- Draft the contract
- Liaise with the buyer’s legal team
- Manage searches and ID checks
- Transfer title deeds
You can usually expect conveyancing fees to range from £500 to £1,500, depending on the complexity of the sale.
Solicitor fees
If you use a solicitor instead of (or alongside) a conveyancer, costs may increase, especially if complications arise.
What will a solicitor do for you?
A solicitor offers more in-depth legal expertise and may be especially useful if your sale includes land, probate, or leasehold issues.
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
An EPC is required by law before you market your property. It measures how energy efficient your home is. Most certificates cost between £60 and £120 and last 10 years.
Legal fees
What legal fees are there when selling a house?
These might include:
- ID verification costs
- Bank transfer charges
- Anti-money laundering checks
- Leasehold information packs (if applicable)
They’re usually included in your solicitor or conveyancer’s bill, but it’s worth checking.
Remortgaging fees
If you’re repaying your mortgage early, your lender might charge:
- An exit fee
- An early repayment charge
- Admin fees
Always check your mortgage terms before putting your home on the market.
Removal costs
Moving day comes with its own costs, whether you hire a van and do it yourself or pay for a professional removals company.
What to consider when moving home
- Volume of belongings
- Distance between properties
- Whether you need packing help
- Storage options if there’s a gap between moves
Expect to pay anywhere between £300 and £1,500, depending on the level of service.
Thinking of selling your home?
We’ve been helping people sell their homes locally for decades, and we understand that every sale is personal. At Northwood, our team of local experts are here to guide you from valuation to completion. We’ll help you understand the costs, navigate the legal side, and get the best result.
Start with a free property valuation to get an idea of your home’s market worth.
Let’s take the stress out of your next move.
