Why It’s Better to Extend Than Move House in Today’s Unstable Economy

In the current economic climate, many homeowners across Surrey and Hampshire are asking the same question: “Should we move, or should we extend?” With rising living costs, fluctuating interest rates and an unpredictable housing market, moving home has become a far more expensive and uncertain process than ever before. For most families, extending your existing home is not only the more cost-effective option—it’s also the smarter long-term investment.

At Forsyth Construction Surrey Ltd, we’re seeing a growing shift: homeowners are choosing to transform the space they already have instead of entering today’s volatile property market. And for good reason.

1. Moving Costs Have Increased Dramatically

When you add up all the costs of moving, the price tag often comes as a shock:

• Estate agent fees

• Legal fees

• Stamp duty

• Survey costs

• Mortgage arrangement fees

• Removal company costs

• Higher interest rates on new mortgages

Before you’ve even turned the key in your new front door, you can be thousands—sometimes tens of thousands—of pounds out of pocket.

By comparison, a well-planned extension channels your investment directly into your property rather than into transactional fees.

2. Property Prices Are Unpredictable

The UK housing market has experienced significant ups and downs. Homeowners looking to move are facing:

• Slower sales

• Dropping offers

• Uncertain valuations

• Higher mortgage stress tests

With this volatility, many people find they cannot afford the next step up the ladder without over-stretching financially.

Extending your home—adding square footage, improving layout or modernising the space—can increase your property value without exposing you to market risk.

3. Interest Rates Make Upsizing Less Attractive

Mortgage rates remain significantly higher than they were just a few years ago. Upsizing now could lock you into a long-term commitment at a rate that makes monthly payments far higher than anticipated.

On the other hand, financing an extension is usually more manageable, especially when using savings, equity, or a smaller home-improvement loan. The monthly outgoings are often far lower than taking on a substantially bigger mortgage.

4. Extending Gives You Tailored Space—Moving Doesn’t

Even if you move, you still may not find a property that offers:

• The ideal kitchen layout

• Extra bedrooms for a growing family

• Open-plan living

• Home office space

• Better flow between rooms

• Improved energy efficiency

With an extension or refurbishment, you design the space around your lifestyle—not the other way around. Whether it’s a rear extension, loft conversion, garage conversion or full remodel, you create a home that finally works for you.

5. Extending Can Add Significant Value

Well-executed extensions add real, measurable value. Homeowners often see:

• Increased resale value

• Better energy performance

• Stronger kerb appeal

• Higher desirability in the future market

Because you’re improving a known asset (your current home), there’s much less uncertainty around value compared to buying a new property.

6. Reduce the Stress and Disruption of Moving

Moving house is consistently ranked as one of life’s most stressful events. Extending, particularly with a well-organised contractor, is far more predictable and allows you to remain in the area you love, close to:

• Schools

• Family

• Work

• Friends

• Local amenities

Instead of uprooting your life, you enhance it.

7. A Smart Investment in an Unstable Economy

When the economy is uncertain, the safest investment is often the one you can control. Extending your home gives you:

• Long-term use of a bespoke space

• Increased property value

• A more efficient home

• Peace of mind that your money is working for you

You avoid the risks of buying into a fluctuating market, and you gain a more enjoyable, functional living environment.

Thinking About Extending? Let’s Talk About Your Plans

If you’re considering how to make the most of your home, Forsyth Construction Surrey Ltd specialise in high-quality extensions, refurbishments and renovations throughout Guildford, Farnham and Alton.

We offer:

• Full project management

• Transparent pricing

• Detailed cost planning

• High-quality workmanship

• A stress-free build process from start to finish

Get in touch today to discuss your project ideas:

📞 07419137445

📧 info@forsythconstructionsurrey.com🌐 www.forsythconstructionsurrey.com