As 2024 comes to a close, and 2025 approaches you might be thinking about plans for the year ahead – which in some cases, might involve a house move.
Whether you are looking to move for a job, upsize, downsize, relocate or get onto the property ladder for the first time, experts predict there will be more than 1.15 million houses sold in 2025.
In this article we round-up some important things you should think about if you are considering moving house in the new year. A house move for some, can mean a fresh start and a new exciting chapter ahead.
Maybe you are starting a family, moving in with a loved one, or starting a new and exciting job – Oakwood Property Solicitors are here to help. Meanwhile, if you are a first-time buyer and are unsure of how the process works – we are here to assist you.
Moving costs
If you are looking to buy a property for the first time, or move house, saving for a deposit and your mortgage costs are probably at the front of your mind.
But, don’t forget about other essential fees, such as paying for a survey which can cost a few hundred pounds, removal fees on the day, and legal fees to deal with the signing of contracts and searches etc.
These additional costs can add a few thousand pounds on top of your deposit to remember to factor them in. Here we have written an article about additional costs you should thing about ahead of a move.
Location
Location is an important factor to consider when you are moving house. Are you going to be happy living in the new area? Will it be suitable for any future plans?
For example, if you are thinking about having children in the not-so-distant future, what are the schools like? Is there public transport? There are all things you should think about before purchasing a property.
Speak to neighbours and locals from the area to get their honest opinion. Also, go to visit the area at different days and times to make sure you are still happy.
Type of property
The type of property you look to buy can also be crucial. For example, an older property you may find that more needs to be done in terms of renovations, or it might be more expensive to get work done if it is a historic building (think thatched roofs and sash windows).
However, although a new build is often considered the safer option – if you know you’re not going to be staying there, and might want to sell-up in a few years, it may lose its value or you might struggle to sell it – as there are most likely hundreds of the same property on a similar estate in the area.
EPC Ratings
If you are looking at property listings, you may be looking at things such as the number of bedroom and bathrooms the property has, the size of the garden and whether it has had any recent renovations to decide whether you would like to view or even buy it.
However, it can be very easy to underestimate the importance of a good Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
The EPC rating shows how energy efficient the property is. The higher the rating, the better the property is at keeping heat and can help you save on energy bills. The EPC will assess elements like insulation, heating systems, and windows. Recommendations are given to improve a property’s energy usage.
Represented by a scale of letters (A to G) and numbers (1-100), an EPC certificate provides insights into a building’s energy usage and environmental impact. For property owners, tenants and potential buyers, understanding these ratings is key to making informed decisions.
Understanding EPC ratings: Domestic properties
The letter scale (A-G)
- A (92-100): Outstanding energy efficiency, requiring minimal energy to heat and power the property.
- B (81-91): Very efficient; minor upgrades could push it to an A.
- C (69-80): Above average; common for newer homes.
- D (55-68): Average efficiency, often found in older but well-maintained properties.
- E (39-54): Below average; improvements are likely needed to lower energy bills.
- F (21-38): Poor efficiency, indicating high energy use and costs.
- G (1-20): Very inefficient; urgent upgrades are typically necessary.
The numbers
The numeric score refines the letter banding further. For example, a score of 79 (C) is much closer to a “B” than a 69 (C). This granular view helps property owners see their progress as they implement efficiency upgrades.
Further reading
Purchases – Oakwood Property Solicitors
WHAT TO DO NEXT
To make a start on the next step in your property journey, get in touch today to book a consultation with a member of our team. Call us on 0113 218 5727 to find out how we can help you.
