Deposits
What costs should I budget for?
Last reviewed: 3 October 2026
The brief answer
Besides the deposit, budget for legal fees and searches, a survey, mortgage or broker fees, moving costs, possible property tax, and a buffer for repairs and furniture. Get real quotes rather than relying on averages.
In plain English
Legal costs: your solicitor or conveyancer charges a fee plus 'disbursements' — costs they pay on your behalf, such as searches and Land Registry fees. Ask for a full written quote.
Survey: optional but strongly worth considering. The cost depends on the type of survey and property. Mortgage costs: some products have arrangement or product fees; some advisers charge a fee.
Property tax: depending on the price and where you buy, you may pay Stamp Duty Land Tax (England and Northern Ireland), Land and Buildings Transaction Tax (Scotland) or Land Transaction Tax (Wales). First-time buyer rules can apply. Rates change, so use the official calculators.
After moving: removals, furniture, insurance, council tax, utilities and early repairs. A new owner is responsible for everything — keep a buffer.
Why it matters
Running short of money near exchange or completion is stressful and can put the purchase at risk.
What to do next
- 1Request written quotes from two or three solicitors or conveyancers.
- 2Check the official property tax calculator for your country.
- 3Add everything to the purchase cost estimator.
Checklist
- Legal quote received
- Survey cost known
- Mortgage fees known
- Property tax checked on official calculator
- Moving costs estimated
- Buffer set aside