August remains one of the busiest months in the housing market, and for good reason.  

With holiday season in full swing, better weather making for more pleasant viewing conditions, and a surge in available stock, many buyers and sellers see summer as the ideal time to make a move. 

However, while the season has its perks, it also comes with hidden costs, tighter timelines, and potential hold-ups due to summer staffing gaps, all of which can add pressure to an already high-stakes process. 

 James Enos, National Account Manager at Hodge Bank, shares his top advice for buyers looking to move this summer, and how to avoid common mistakes that could delay, or even derail, a sale. 

 1. Don’t View Before You’re Mortgage-Ready

“One of the biggest mistakes we see is buyers finding a dream home before sorting out their mortgage. In a competitive summer market, that delay can mean losing the property altogether.  

“Getting a mortgage agreement in principle, before booking viewings, helps clarify budget and shows agents and sellers you’re serious. 

 “Make sure your paperwork, including ID, proof of income, and deposit, is ready to go. That preparation can speed up your offer and reduce the chance of delays down the line.” 

2. Hidden Costs Can Catch Buyers Out

 “While most buyers focus on saving for a deposit, the additional costs of moving often go under the radar, especially in peak season. 

 “Summer is a popular time to move, and that demand often comes with a higher price tag. From removals and storage, to solicitors and surveys, costs can stack up fast. 

 “Having a  contingency fund in place could be a good idea, as it gives you a buffer for unexpected delays or last-minute costs, which are more common than people think, particularly in August.” 

 3. Expect Delays and Plan Around Them

 “Just like the unpredictable August weather, summer moves can add complications behind the scenes. Staff holidays across estate agencies, lenders, and legal firms can slow down process, a detail lots of us overlook. 

 “If you’re working to a specific timeline, like getting settled before school starts, it’s vital to communicate that clearly from the outset, but if you have flexibility, consider whether a late-September or early-October move might be smoother. There’s often more availability and less market congestion.” 

“While moving house is never without stress, a well-planned summer move can be a rewarding step, especially for those who take a proactive approach. 

 “Moving is one of life’s biggest financial decisions, the more groundwork you do now, the more confident and in control you’ll feel when the time comes to pick up the keys.” 

 

ENDS 

Notes to editors: 

About Hodge:
For more than 50 years, Hodge has been a trusted provider of financial services across the UK. From helping individuals save and purchase homes to offering businesses tailored lending solutions, Hodge has continually demonstrated its commitment to enhancing financial well-being. 

Media Contact:
Emily Leyshon
Liberty Marketing
Email: [email protected]