Cut the cost of moving home

(January 2008)

When it comes to moving, you know you're in for a fair amount of stress, not to mention arguments with your partner over which box you packed the kettle in. But while you may be ready for all the emotional upheaval, you may not be prepared for how much it's going to cost you.

According to the Guardian, the price of moving house has more than tripled in the last ten years, costing an average £9,486, compared with £2,925 in 1996.

But where does all this moving money go, and can any of it be reduced? Luckily, leading home insurance provider MORE TH>N, has compiled a list of the things you need to be aware of when buying a home.

Stamp duty

How much? This will almost certainly be your largest outgoing, with the average homebuyer facing a £5,009 bill. Find out exactly how much you'll owe using the Inland Revenue's online calculator.

Can I cut the cost? Only if you're buying in an area designated disadvantaged by the government. In years gone by you could do a deal with the seller to pay over the odds for "fixtures and fittings", so they got the price they wanted for the property while you saved a fortune on tax. But now the Inland Revenue makes checks on properties just below the stamp duty thresholds so people can't cheat the system.

Estate agent fees

How much? Fees can range from 1% to 2%, but typically cost more than £3,000.

Can I cut the cost? You don't have to use an estate agent at all, although they are a good idea if you want a quick sale. If you do decide to go with one, negotiating over their fees can be a money saver.

Solicitors

How much? Solicitors' fees usually account for around £1,000.

Can I cut the cost? It's always worth trying to negotiate, but the better the firm, the less likely they are to come down in price.

Surveyors

How much? A valuation will cost you around £85, while a full structural survey will be upwards of £450-£500 depending on the size and state of repair of the house you're buying.

Can I cut the cost? You could just go for the valuation survey, but it's always worth paying the extra for a full structural report - if there are lots of problems it could help you negotiate with the seller on price. Your mortgage company will often let you use their surveyor to provide the report and offer a discount on the fee.

Removals

How much? Removal costs come in at an average of £600.

Can I cut the cost? You could do it yourself by hiring a van, but the professionals really do save you time, petrol and effort - not to mention painful hours at the chiropractors. According to the Guardian, the beginning of the week is normally a quiet time for firms so you may be more likely to get a deal if you can move on a Monday or at the beginning of the month.

MORE TH>N is the direct financial services arm of Royal & SunAlliance. It offers motor, home, pet, life and travel insurance by phone and via the internet. It also offers van, shop, office, business car, hotels, property club and contractor insurance direct to small businesses

MORE TH>N is a registered trademark of the Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Group plc and a trading style of Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc (No.93792). Registered in England & Wales at St.Mark's Court, Chart Way, Horsham, RH12 1XL. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority