Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Homeowners · Improve or move
Improve or move?
Movingcosts
Extensions& lofts
Valueadded
Calculatorcompare
In short: With stamp duty, legal fees, agent fees and removals, moving within London can cost tens of thousands of pounds before you've improved anything. Many owners instead invest in maintenance, extensions, loft conversions or energy upgrades. Good maintenance protects value, while extra space often adds value too, though not always pound for pound. Compare both options, and check planning and party wall rules first. Fraser Bond can value your home as it is and after improvements.
Move vs improve
Stamp duty on next home–
Total moving costs (SDLT + ~2.5% fees)–
Improvement budget–
Fees are estimates.
Frequently asked questions
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Handy tools
Stamp duty calculatorRental yield calculatorMove-in costsBTL deposit calculatorRefurb cost per m²
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Does an extension add value?
Often, but not always more than it costs.
Can Fraser Bond value improvements?
Yes.
Want a before-and-after valuation?
Talk to our team or get a free valuation.
Speak to our teamGet a free valuation
