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Frozen market sees homeowners extend rather than move

With buyer demand at its weakest in years, a growing number of homeowners in England and Wales are choosing to stay put and extend rather than move, coinciding with a stalling sales market.
Moving is increasingly expensive, with average costs reaching around £13,000 according to the HomeOwners Alliance, while Stamp Duty thresholds reverted in April 2025, leaving movers facing a £7,500 tax bill on a £350,000 purchase.
A strong emotional connection to the home and attachment to community often outweigh financial concerns, while extensions accommodate growing family needs or create dedicated home offices.
Modular construction specialist Vita Modular reports builds finished in around six weeks—roughly 70% faster than traditional methods—while meeting all Building Regulations for structure and quality.
These steel-frame systems cut embodied carbon by about 65%, offering homeowners an environmentally conscious way to increase property value as traditional moving options grow less inviting.

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