Homebuyers hit by unexpected costs

Nearly two-thirds of UK homebuyers faced unexpected costs in the past year, according to recent research.

First-time buyers were hit hardest, with 66% encountering surprise expenses, compared to 55% of movers. The survey of over 1,000 buyers found costs such as legal fees, repairs and one-off charges often disrupted the process, with 27% naming these the most frustrating part of the home buying process. Conveyancing costs also climbed, with £1.9bn spent in 2024, up 17% on the year before. Yet despite rising conveyancing fees, unexpected costs proved most stressful for buyers. The research highlighted the need for better education around home purchase costs beyond legal fees and mortgage costs.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

Source: https://www.ftadviser.com/mortgages/2025/5/29/two-thirds-of-homebuyers-stuck-with-unexpected-costs/