Moving versus extending

The Pros and Cons

Upsizing to a larger property might involve you looking at properties outside of the area you currently live in due to the fact that there aren't many larger properties built in your area. External factors such as those listed below can often influence your decision to remain in the area and extend instead.

• good neighbours in the area
• family members living nearby
• easy access to services such as:

• buses
• local shops
• school
• e.t.c.

• getting to work is convenience
• your children like their local schools and friends.

If you did decide to move you could end up being in a chain when selling your home. This could mean a lengthy wait assuming the the chain doesn't break.

When you extend you have the opportunity to re-model your home the just the way you like it.

You need to consider the following additional cost of moving:

• estate agent fees
• packing boxes + removals
• if applicable, stamp duty fees
• solicitors fees
• house survey fees
• home information pack (HIP pack)

Would this money been better put to use toward the cost of the house extension?

The down side of extending are:

• Worries if you've chosen the right builder for the job
• Having to put up with builders for a few weeks

The stress endured in moving and extending are about the same.