Winter months bring unique challenges to the moving process, especially around Christmas. While many view it as a quieter time to buy or sell property, moving during this season presents specific legal and practical considerations. Below, we’ll cover key tips for navigating this process, including the recent changes in Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) and the impact of festive time off on the timeline for your move.

 

Why Move During Winter?

While winter may not seem like the ideal season to move, there are potential advantages. Typically, the housing market slows down during the colder months, with fewer people buying and selling. This can mean less competition and a greater chance of securing a favourable deal, as sellers may be more flexible with prices. However, moving during winter and especially during the Christmas period requires special attention to both the legal and practical details.

 

Considerations for Moving in Winter

  • Christmas Closures of Key Institutions

During the Christmas period, many conveyancing solicitors, mortgage lenders, and estate agents operate on reduced hours or close entirely for several days. It’s advisable to work closely with your conveyancing solicitor to plan your timeline around these closures. Make sure to communicate your desired moving date well in advance to ensure all parties can accommodate it. If you, yourself are planning to be away over the Christmas period, ensure that your solicitor and estate agent are aware of any dates that you are not contactable.

  • Weather-Related Delays

Winter weather can complicate aspects of property transactions. For example, if adverse conditions prevent you from moving on the agreed completion date, you may face financial penalties.

  • Home Insurance During the Winter

Winter poses additional risks to properties, such as flooding, freezing pipes, and storm damage. It’s essential to have proper home insurance in place as soon as you exchange contracts, as this is typically the point at which you assume responsibility for the property.

  • Timing Your Move

Closures and limited working hours can complicate scheduling during the Christmas period. Be realistic about how quickly you will be able to move and be prepared for some delays or unexpected hurdles. Establish a timeline that avoids downtime periods wherever possible.

 

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) Changes From 31 March 2025

The Autumn Budget (which took place on 30 October 2024) stayed silent on the current Stamp Duty Land Tax exemptions for house movers and first-time buyers. This means that they will be coming to an end on 31 March 2025, as planned.

If you are planning a move or are in a long property chain, be prepared for the changes as this could significantly impact your finances. SDLT rates are returning to pre-pandemic percentages, as below:

Properties up to £125,000 – Zero Stamp Duty Land Tax

Properties from £125,001 to £250,000 – 2% (currently zero)

Properties from £250,001 to £925,000 – 5%

Properties from £925,001 to £1.5m – 10%

Properties over £1.5m – 12%

For first-time buyers: The nil rate will be reduced.

Properties up to £300,000 – Zero Stamp Duty to pay (currently up to £425,000)

Properties from £300,001 – £625,000 – 5%

Properties over £625,000 – no reliefs available (will be subject to the rules and rates above)

 

Working with a Conveyancing Solicitor for a Winter Move

Moving house in winter requires careful coordination with your conveyancing solicitor to address both legal and logistical challenges. At Downie & Gadban Solicitors, we’re experienced in guiding clients through the complexities of winter moves, helping to navigate SDLT adjustments, ensuring compliance with contracts, and protecting your interests in the face of any unexpected interruptions.

Our goal is to make your moving process as seamless as possible, ensuring that all legal aspects are covered and that your move stays on track, despite winter’s challenges.

If you’re planning to move this winter or during the Christmas period, get in touch with us at Downie & Gadban Solicitors to discuss how we can support you at every step of your journey.

Call our team on 01420 82879, email [email protected] or complete the contact form on our website.

 

The contents of this blog are for general awareness purposes and do not purport to legal or professional advice. The law may have changed since this blog was published. Readers should not act on the basis of information shared within this, or any other blog, but should seek appropriate, professional advice on their own circumstances.