After going through the complex steps of choosing the optimal mortgage from a myriad of options in the UK, completing the house-hunting process, securing mortgage approval and finalising your property deal you are now ready to move into your new home. Read on to know about UK's favourite moving day.
Read more on what an exchange of contracts is and what happens on completion date.
UK's favourite moving days
Friday is decidedly UK's most popular moving day, making for an ideal moving process. Data on UK moving days highlights distinct preferences among homeowners and renters. These preferences stem from a blend of personal situations, market dynamics, and practical considerations.
The choice of moving day significantly shapes the entire relocation experience. In this article, we take a closer look at the reasons behind these preferences, revealing insights into the UK's moving day trends.
Why timing matters in house moving
The timing of a house move intersects with financial, personal, and logistical aspects. Choosing the right day to move house can influence house removal costs, stress levels, and overall ease of the transition.
Factors like the UK's somewhat predictable weather conditions and the alignment with bank money transfer systems play roles in this decision-making process.
Here's a checklist of moving day designed to ease the process for you.
The best day of the week to move house
Friday afternoon: the popular choice
Many house movers in Britain opt for this day influenced by certain factors: one notable reason is the long weekend it offers, allowing extra time for unpacking and settling in without the immediate pressure of the upcoming workweek. This extended period is especially beneficial for families, providing a smoother transition for children.
The timing of bank and solicitor operations has a role in choosing Friday afternoon for moving. Most banks in the UK process money transfers only on working days. Completing financial transactions by Friday ensures that funds are available for the weekend, critical for covering immediate post-move expenses.
Additionally, solicitors often wrap up pre-completion work ahead of the weekend, making Friday a practical completion day for many. However, in the event of any issues arising with your conveyancer or the bank, resolution may be delayed until the following Monday or later, as banks and solicitors close over the weekend.
Choosing a midweek move has benefits
Opting for a midweek move, typically from Tuesday to Thursday, presents its own set of advantages.
One benefit is the potential for cheaper removal costs. Many removal companies offer midweek deals, reflecting lower demand compared to weekends. This cost-effectiveness can be appealing to those seeking to economise their moving expenses. You'll find a few removal companies that offer mid-week deals. These deals can reduce your expenses.
It works well for those with flexible schedules.
Additionally, midweek moves often mean less competition for services, leading to a smoother and more efficient moving process.
Many find Friday morning advantageous, aligning with completion dates and bank deadlines. This popular choice can, however, lead to higher charges from removal companies.
Time of the year also matters
It's not just about the day; the time of year affects removal rates too.
Summer holidays often see a spike in costs, reflecting higher demand. Selecting a less sought-after day could save you a considerable amount.
Availability of estate agents and removal companies
Estate agents manage their schedules around popular moving days. Fridays and the last Friday of the month, in particular, are bustling. This high demand can stretch the availability of both estate agents and removal companies. By contrast, mid-week days see less activity. This can mean more attention and better service from your estate agent.
Also, removal companies work at a less frenetic pace mid-week, possibly translating into more meticulous handling of your belongings. Planning your move for a day when both available properties and professional services are not overbooked is a strategic decision that can enhance the overall experience.
Securing the best deals with estate agents
To secure the best deals, consider the estate agent's working schedule. The busiest days might not be the best for negotiating rates or services.
Additionally, aligning your moving date primarily with your needs, rather than the agent's convenience, empowers you to steer the buying process.
Remember, your circumstances and moving flexibility can be leveraged to negotiate favourable terms.
Regional variations in moving day preferences
Discover Britain's favourite day to move house region wise:
Friday moves in Greater and Central London
In Greater and Central London, there's a preference for moving house on a Friday. This choice is underpinned by the practical advantage of having the weekend immediately following the move.
It allows new homeowners or renters in London to utilise Saturday and Sunday for unpacking and settling in, without the pressure of returning to work the next day.
Moreover, the end-of-the-week move aligns well with the city's fast-paced lifestyle, where minimising workweek disruption is a priority.
Additionally, real estate agents and removal companies in London are attuned to this trend, often gearing their services to accommodate the high demand for Friday moves.
Northern Ireland movers prefer weekdays
In Northern Ireland, the moving day preferences show a marked deviation from the London trend, with a stronger inclination towards weekday moves.
This preference is influenced by several factors. Firstly, moving on a weekday avoids the weekend rush, which can be particularly beneficial in areas with less urban congestion compared to London. Weekday moves can also offer more competitive rates from removal companies.
The generally more relaxed pace of life in Northern Ireland also supports this trend, as it allows for a more leisurely and less rushed moving experience, without the pressure of the immediate return to work typical of a Friday move.
House moves in Scotland
Scotland's moving day preferences are shaped by its unique housing market and legal system. Unlike in England and Wales, the Scottish property market operates on slightly different legal principles, which can influence the timing of house moves.
In Scotland, there's a trend towards choosing a specific weekday for moving, which often correlates with the completion date of the property transaction. This date is legally significant and marks the transfer of ownership, dictating the moving day.
The preference for a particular weekday, as opposed to a Friday or weekend move, can also be attributed to the local culture and market practices. Scottish movers might choose a day that offers the best balance between convenience, availability of services, and cost-effectiveness, rather than defaulting to the end of the week.
The best time of year to move house
Summer months are peak time for moving house
In the UK, August stands out as the favourite season for moving house. This preference is because of the typical British summer. Firstly, the extended daylight hours offer more time for the moving process, crucial for a task that often takes longer than expected.
Additionally, the generally favourable weather conditions during this period reduce the likelihood of rain-related disruptions, a common concern in the UK.
Families particularly find summer advantageous for moving. With school holidays in full swing, parents can coordinate the move without disrupting their children's education. This timing also allows children to adjust to their new home and neighbourhood before the new academic year begins, easing the transition.
The real estate market also becomes particularly active during this time. Many people aim to conclude their house hunt in the summer, leading to a noticeable uptick in housing transactions. While this season offers several benefits, its popularity can be a double-edged sword.
The high demand often leads to increased prices and availability issues with removal services. Prospective movers should plan ahead, booking removal services well in advance to secure their preferred moving date.
Winter moves: managing cold weather challenges
Moving house in the winter months poses challenges, primarily due to the UK's weather conditions and shorter daylight hours. The reduced daylight can make moving logistics more difficult, as tasks like loading and unloading become harder to manage in the dark. The unpredictable weather, including the possibility of rain or snow, can lead to unexpected delays and complications.
Despite these challenges, winter moves can have their upsides. The real estate market tends to be less busy, leading to more negotiable housing deals.
Additionally, the demand for removal services is generally lower, resulting in better service and availability. Some removal companies might offer attractive midweek deals during this off-peak season.
When planning a winter move, it's important to be prepared for weather-related disruptions. Ensuring that the new house is ready for immediate occupancy is of primary importance, with particular attention to heating and lighting systems to counter the cold and dark conditions.
It’s also wise to have contingency plans for potential delays or complications due to adverse weather. This preparation can help mitigate the inherent challenges of a winter move, making the transition to your new home as smooth as possible despite the season's unpredictability.