Buying a home in the next year? This complete guide walks you through every step of the house buying process, from understanding the current UK housing market to arranging cost-effective house removals. Learn how much you really need to save, how to choose the right area, what the real cost of moving house includes, and how to prepare for completion day. With average UK house prices at £270,000 and steadier market conditions, buyers finally have time to plan properly. Get expert advice on budgeting, timelines, and finding trusted house movers to make your move stress-free.
Complete Guide to Buying a Home in the UK – Costs, Timeline & Moving Tips
Find My Man and Van's 2025 Guide to Buying a New Home
Buying a new home is exciting, though it can quickly feel overwhelming — from saving for a deposit to arranging house removals once your offer’s accepted. The good news is that the 2025 housing market is steadier than it has been in years, giving you more time to make confident decisions without overspending.
This guide breaks the process down into clear steps so you can plan your move, stay within budget, and know exactly what to expect from start to finish.
What's Happening in the UK Housing Market Right Now?
After several years of sharp price swings and rising mortgage rates, the property market is beginning to stabilise. Here’s what the latest data shows:
After several years of sharp price changes and rising mortgage rates, the UK housing market is showing signs of stability again. Buyers now have more time to plan, and sellers are adjusting expectations to match a steadier pace. Here’s what the latest data shows:
| Key Statistics | Source | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| £270,000 – average UK house price (July 2025) | ONS | Prices remain stable compared with 2024, easing pressure on buyers. |
| +2.8% annual price growth | HM Land Registry | Gradual growth points to a calmer, more predictable market. |
| Slight fall in asking prices before the Autumn Budget | Rightmove | Buyers have regained some negotiating power as listings rise. |
| Steady but slow price growth | Nationwide | The post-pandemic surge has eased, with more sustainable trends emerging. |
Data reflects market conditions from July to October 2025, based on ONS, HM Land Registry, Rightmove, and Nationwide reporting.
While the UK average sits around £270,000, regional prices vary widely. According to ONS data, average property values in London remain above £500,000, compared with around £370,000 in the South East and closer to £190,000 in Manchester and Leeds. These differences highlight how location still plays a major role in affordability and moving costs.
Homes are now taking longer to sell, giving buyers valuable breathing space to prepare. If you’re just starting your property search, this is an ideal time to plan your finances and organise your move carefully before committing.
Step 1 – How Much Do You Really Need?
Before browsing listings, take a close look at your budget. You’ll need a deposit (usually 10–20%) and enough to cover the full cost of moving house — solicitor fees, survey charges, and removals.
Quick checklist:
- Deposit and mortgage agreement in principle
- Legal and valuation fees
- Stamp Duty (if applicable)
- House removals or man and van services
- Insurance and connection fees
Unsure where to start? Use our free quote tool on Find My Man and Van to compare house removal prices near you and get instant quotes.
You can also check whether you qualify for government support such as First Homes or Shared Ownership on GOV.UK.
Step 2 – Get a Professional Valuation (If You're Selling)
If you already own a property, arrange at least two valuations before listing. A realistic asking price helps you plan your next purchase without delay and gives a clear view of your equity.
Don’t rely solely on online estimates. Speak to local agents or surveyors to get an accurate view of current conditions.
Step 3 – How Long Does Buying Actually Take?
Property transactions can take longer than expected, especially when chains are involved. Build in buffer time — from mortgage approval to completion, most sales now take about three months.
Typical timeline:
| Stage | Timeframe | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Mortgage agreement | 1–2 weeks | Compare lenders and get pre-approval |
| Offer accepted | 6–8 weeks | Arrange conveyancing, survey, and insurance |
| Exchange contracts | 1 week before completion | Book removals and confirm dates |
| Completion | Moving day | Final payments and key collection |
Times vary depending on chain complexity and lender processing.
Once your offer is accepted, read our guide to choosing the best removal company to ensure your booking runs smoothly.
Step 4 – How Do You Choose the Right Area?
Location matters as much as price. Think about your lifestyle — commute, schools, transport, and community feel.
Explore local insights like our Liverpool City Guide 2025 for detailed housing and community info.
- Check council tax bands
- Review broadband speed and mobile coverage
- Confirm parking or permit needs
- See flood-risk maps on GOV.UK
Step 5 – Work with a Trusted Estate Agent
A good estate agent is worth the fee. They’ll guide you through negotiations and highlight potential issues early. Ask how long they’ve worked in your area, how often they’ll update you, and whether they’re part of The Property Ombudsman.
Online agents can save money, but you’ll handle more admin yourself.
Step 6 – What If Things Get Delayed?
Even the best-planned moves can face setbacks. Surveys, mortgage expiries, or legal checks can slow things down. Stay prepared:
- Stay in regular contact with your solicitor and broker
- Allow a small financial buffer for extra costs
- Book flexible removal services — our UK-based team is available seven days a week
Realistic expectations make the process less stressful.
Step 7 – What's the Real Cost of Moving House?
When planning your move, include more than just the van hire. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
| Expense | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Professional house removals | £300–£1,200 | Depends on distance and property size |
| Packing materials | £50–£200 | Reuse boxes to save money |
| Cleaning | £100–£250 | Optional but useful before moving in |
| Temporary storage | £50–£70 per week | Useful for partial or delayed moves |
| Utilities overlap | Varies | Avoid double billing by notifying early |
For more on saving during your move, read our guide to saving money on house removals.
Step 8 – How Should You Prepare for Moving Day?
Moving day can be hectic, but a few preparations help everything go smoothly.
Before the day:
- Confirm your quote and timings with your mover
- Notify gas, electricity, and broadband providers of your final readings
- Arrange mail redirection with Royal Mail
On the day:
- Photograph meter readings at both homes
- Keep valuables and documents with you
- Walk through the property with your movers before loading
Remember, buildings insurance should start on exchange, not completion. Check Citizens Advice if unsure about cover.
Step 9 – What Admin Do You Need to Handle After Moving?
Once you’re in, don’t delay the essential updates that protect your finances and legal records.
- Register to vote at GOV.UK
- Update your driving licence and V5C via the DVLA
- Notify banks, pension providers, and insurers
- Register with a GP and dentist if you’ve moved areas
- Inform both councils to avoid duplicate Council Tax bills
For a full list, see A Checklist for Moving Home.
Step 10 – How Can You Settle In Quickly?
Unpacking may take days, but you can make your new place feel welcoming right away. Change locks, test smoke alarms, and locate the fuse box and stopcock first.
Then explore your area, meet neighbours, and plan small updates to make the space your own.
For tips on unpacking and organising, see our Complete Moving House Survival Guide.
Quick-Reference Table
| Task | When | Resource |
|---|---|---|
| Get mortgage agreement | Before viewing | Lender or broker |
| Compare removal quotes | After exchange | Find My Man and Van |
| Start insurance | On exchange | Citizens Advice – Buildings Insurance |
| Redirect mail | Before moving | Royal Mail Redirection |
| Update licences and council tax | Within a week | DVLA / GOV.UK Council Tax |
| Switch utilities | Before move | Provider websites |
Final Thoughts
Buying a home in 2025 doesn’t need to be stressful. The market is calmer, giving you time to plan properly. Start with your finances, stay in touch with professionals you trust, and organise your move in advance.
At Find My Man and Van, we make the moving part simple. Get instant moving house quotes, compare insured removal companies across the UK, and confirm your booking in minutes. Our award-winning, UK-based customer support is available seven days a week to keep everything on track.
Take the time to plan well, move smart, and enjoy settling into your new home. Find trusted house movers across the UK today.
Liz is a content creator and digital marketing consultant at Find My Man and Van. Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, she is now happily settled in the UK (after living in four different countries across 2 continents and moving house 10 times). Drawing on her experiences, Liz shares practical advice and insider tips to help others enjoy smoother, stress-free moves.