Understanding the cost of selling a house is one of the most important steps before putting your property on the market. From estate agent fees and legal costs to moving expenses and potential tax, the total cost can quickly add up if you’re not prepared.
In the UK, the average cost of selling a house typically ranges between £5,000 and £8,000, depending on your property value, location and selling method.
In this guide, we break down exactly what you’ll need to pay, when you’ll pay it, and how to reduce your overall costs.
What Does It Cost to Sell a House in the UK?
The cost of selling a house in the UK depends on several factors, but most sellers will pay for:
Estate agent fees
Legal and conveyancing costs
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Removal and moving costs
Mortgage exit fees (if applicable)
Potential Capital Gains Tax (in some cases)
Here’s a quick overview of the typical costs:
Typical Cost | |
Estate agent fees | 0.75% – 3.5% of sale price |
Conveyancing / solicitor fees | £500 – £1,500 |
EPC certificate | £60 – £120 |
Removal costs | £300 – £1,500+ |
Mortgage exit fees | £0 – £5,000+ |
Capital Gains Tax | Depends on circumstances |
Estate Agent Fees
Estate agent fees are usually the largest part of the cost of selling a house. Traditional estate agents typically charge between 0.75% and 3.5% of the final sale price.
For example, on a £300,000 property, this could mean paying between £2,250 and £10,500.
Online estate agents, like Purplebricks, offer a fixed-fee alternative, helping sellers reduce costs while still reaching major property portals.
Legal Fees and Conveyancing Costs
When selling your home, you’ll need a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal process.
Typical solicitor fees range from £500 to £1,500, depending on the complexity of your sale.
Your solicitor will:
Prepare contracts
Handle legal paperwork
Transfer ownership to the buyer
To understand this in more detail, see our guide to Conveyancing for sellers or explore typical solicitor fees.
You can also compare options through our trusted conveyancing solicitors.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
An EPC is a legal requirement when selling a property in the UK.
It typically costs between £60 and £120 and is valid for 10 years. If you already have a valid EPC, you won’t need to pay for a new one.
Mortgage Exit Fees
If you still have a mortgage on your property, you may need to pay:
Early repayment charges (ERCs)
Exit or admin fees
These can range from a few hundred pounds to several thousand, depending on your mortgage terms.
Always check with your lender before listing your home, as this can significantly impact the total cost of selling a house.
Removal and Moving Costs
Moving costs are often overlooked but can add up quickly. Typical costs include:
Removal company fees
Packing materials
Storage (if needed)
Depending on the size of your move, this could range from £300 to £1,500 or more.
Do You Pay Tax When Selling a House?
Most homeowners won’t pay tax when selling their main residence thanks to Private Residence Relief.
However, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) may apply if:
The property is a second home or buy-to-let
You’ve rented out part of your home
The property has significantly increased in value
CGT rates for residential property are typically:
18% for basic rate taxpayers
24% for higher rate taxpayers
Importantly, you do not pay Stamp Duty when selling a house. That cost applies to the buyer.
Hidden Costs of Selling a House
Some of the biggest surprises come from hidden or unexpected costs.
These can include:
Home improvements or repairs before listing
Professional photography or staging
Cleaning costs
Delays leading to extended mortgage payments
Longer sales timelines can increase your total costs, especially if you’re paying a mortgage on your current home while waiting to move.
What Affects the Cost of Selling a House?
The total cost of selling a house can vary depending on:
Property value (higher value = higher agent fees)
Location and demand
Type of property (leasehold vs freehold)
Selling method (online vs traditional agent)
Speed of sale
In 2026, pricing your property correctly from the start is more important than ever. Overpricing can lead to longer time on the market, which increases overall costs.
How Long Does It Take to Sell a House in the UK?
On average, selling a house in the UK takes on average 25 weeks from listing to completion.
Delays in the process can increase costs through:
Additional mortgage payments
Extended legal fees
Storage or temporary accommodation
A well-priced property with strong marketing can significantly reduce this timeline.
How to Reduce the Cost of Selling a House
There are several practical ways to reduce your selling costs.
Choosing a fixed-fee estate agent can significantly cut down your largest expense. Comparing quotes from solicitors and conveyancers also helps ensure you’re getting value for money.
Preparing your home before listing can prevent delays, while pricing realistically from the outset can help you secure a faster sale and avoid ongoing costs.
Avoid over-investing in upgrades that won’t add value, and focus instead on presentation and condition.
Final Thoughts
The cost of selling a house in the UK can vary widely, but understanding the key expenses upfront helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises.
From estate agent fees and legal costs to moving expenses and potential tax, every stage of the process carries a cost. The good news is that with the right approach, many of these can be reduced.
If you’re planning your next move, start by getting an accurate idea of your home’s value with a Book your free house valuation.
Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, explore how to sell your property or contact Purplebricks to speak with a local expert.