
By James Evans, Director, TouchPoint Mortgages.

Moving home is a big financial commitment — and the mortgage isn’t the only thing you’ll need to budget for.
From estate agent fees to stamp duty and everything in between, this guide will help you plan for the true cost of moving home so there are no nasty surprises down the line.
Let’s break down exactly what to expect when moving home in Littlehampton, Rustington, and across West Sussex — and how a local mortgage advisor can help you stay on track financially.
If you’re selling a home to buy your next one, you’ll likely pay estate agent fees of 1% to 2% + VAT of your sale price.
For a £300,000 home, this could mean £3,600 to £7,200 in fees.
This is a key cost that varies based on the property price:
£0 – £250,000: No stamp duty (unless it’s a second property)
£250,001 – £925,000: 5% on the portion above £250k
First-time buyers: Exempt up to £425,000
Your mortgage advisor can calculate your exact SDLT based on your purchase price and circumstances.
Conveyancers typically charge between £800 – £1,500 depending on the complexity of your transaction. Leasehold or shared ownership properties can incur higher costs.
At TouchPoint, we can refer you to trusted local solicitors who are efficient and competitively priced.
This could include:
A product fee (£999 is common — often added to the loan)
Valuation or survey fees
Broker fees (although many clients qualify for our free initial advice)
Some people may also be able to port their existing mortgage, saving money on fees and rates. You can read more about that in our guide on how porting your mortgage works.
👉 Need help reviewing your deal? Chat to your mortgage advisor in Rustington or Littlehampton.
Don’t forget:
Removal company (from £400 to £1,200+ depending on distance and home size)
Packing materials, boxes, and van hire if DIY
Storage fees if there’s a gap between moving out and moving in
These are often overlooked but can be one of the most stressful parts of the move!
Once you move in, expect expenses like:
Initial repairs or upgrades
Utility and broadband setup fees
Furniture and white goods
Council tax adjustment
Your budget shouldn’t just stop at the front door.
The true cost of moving home can quickly add up — but with careful planning and the right advice, you can stay in control and avoid financial surprises.
At TouchPoint Mortgages, we help clients across West Sussex understand the full picture, not just the mortgage. From estimating your stamp duty to checking if porting your mortgage makes sense, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
👉 See our Homemovers page
👉 Or speak to your mortgage advisor in Littlehampton or Rustington today
👉 Not sure whether to keep your deal? Read How Porting Your Mortgage Works
Send your message and we will be in touch, alternatively you can book an appointment to chat to one of our team.
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