First-time buyer guide
First-time buyer fees
Plan for the legal, survey, mortgage and moving fees that can sit on top of a first-time buyer deposit.
First-time buyers can face several smaller fees that add up quickly.
Budgeting for them early reduces the risk of having a deposit ready but not enough cash to complete the purchase.
Budgeting for them early reduces the risk of having a deposit ready but not enough cash to complete the purchase.
Common first-time buyer fees
- Solicitor or conveyancer
- Searches and registration costs
- Survey or valuation
- Mortgage product / arrangement fees
- Broker fees where applicable
- Bank transfer charges
- Removals and practical moving costs
Which fees can be added to the mortgage?
Some lender fees may be added to the mortgage balance, depending on the product. That reduces the cash needed up front but increases the amount borrowed and potentially the interest paid.
Use real quotes as soon as you have them
MoveBudget starts with planning estimates, but the most useful budget is one updated with your solicitor, surveyor, lender and removal quotes.
Your whole move
Bring the numbers together.
Take what you’ve learned here back to MoveBudget and see what you’ll actually need in the bank.
Back to MoveBudget →