This article is an external press release originally published on the Landlord News website, which has now been migrated to the Just Landlords blog.
New research has highlighted the stressful experience attributed to moving home in the UK, with the majority of respondents to the survey indicating that this was the case.
Stress
An investigation by finance comparison website MoneySuperMarket found that 86% of people questioned indicated that moving home got them stressed. 46% said they did not feel in control, with 39% revealing the cost of a new home was more than they had anticipated. Two-fifths of respondents were found to have paid £5,000 more than they had expected.[1]
In addition, data from the report shows that 19% of people said moving home led them to change or compromise their career, with 20% admitting a house move caused an argument with a partner.[1]
Where people were found to have overpaid, 63% said that they utilised their savings, 16% used credit cards and 11% were forced to rely on financial assistance from their parents.[1]
Moving misery
71% of people questioned indicated that packing up their belongings was the most stressful part of moving home. 62% said that finding a property in the right price bracket was most concerning, with 57% outlining choosing the correct location.[1]
57% stated that setting up new utility contracts was the most stressful part of the process, with 56% saying unpacking and dealing with estate agents riled them the most. What’s more, 20% said that they were unable to concentrate on their work, with 19% taking annual leave to make sure things were sorted.[1]
‘Whether for the first time, or stepping up the ladder, moving home is a momentous life choice for people to make,’ noted Dan Plant, consumer expert at MoneySuperMarket. ‘There is so much to consider, both before and after keys are handed over, and as it takes an average of six months just to find a property, it’s understandably stressful and has a knock on effect in all aspects of all people’s lives.’[1]
Moving home stressful for majority
Tiring
Plant said that despite moving housing normally being an exciting time, ‘the most common words people associate with moving are tiring, draining and frustrating. However, he said that, ‘moving house doesn’t have to be a completely arduous process. Being as prepared as possible will help ease the angst.’[1]
He went on to say that, ‘it’s important to consider all costs involved so you aren’t hit with an unexpected bill at any point from the mortgage, surveys and stamp duty, to removal hire and any other necessary additions to the new house. Simple steps such as creating a checklist and timeline will also alleviate the extra pressure on your relationships, jobs and health.’[1]
[1] http://www.propertywire.com/news/europe/uk-moving-home-stress-2015080310815.html
