As the housing market continues to fluctuate and families grow, many homeowners across Sussex, including Worthing and the wider West Sussex area, are faced with a common question: Should we move house or extend our current home?
It’s a decision that depends on numerous personal, financial, and practical factors. Whether you’re feeling cramped, want to modernise your living space, or are planning for future needs, both options come with unique advantages and drawbacks.
This guide explores the pros and cons of home extensions versus moving house to help you make a well-informed decision tailored to your circumstances.
1. Assessing Your Current Situation
Before diving into costs or logistics, take a moment to evaluate:
Why do you want more space? (e.g., new baby, working from home, lifestyle changes)
Is your location still suitable? (e.g., schools, work commute, amenities)
Do you love your neighbourhood?
If your home’s location ticks all the boxes and your dissatisfaction is purely space-related, an extension might be the most sensible route.
2. Benefits of a Home Extension
a. Stay in a Location You Love
Worthing and other parts of West Sussex are home to thriving communities, excellent schools, and stunning coastlines. Extending allows you to remain in familiar surroundings without uprooting your life.
b. Tailored to Your Needs
From open-plan kitchen-diners to extra bedrooms or home offices, a well-designed extension can be customised around your family’s specific needs.
c. Adds Property Value
With quality workmanship and thoughtful design, a home extension can significantly increase your property’s resale value—especially in sought-after areas like Sussex.
d. Cost-Effective Compared to Moving
While extensions require investment, they often cost less than buying a new home once you account for stamp duty, legal fees, estate agents, removals, and refurbishment.
e. Permitted Development Rights
Many single-storey rear or side extensions fall under permitted development in the UK, meaning you might not need full planning permission—speeding up the process.
3. Drawbacks of Extending Your Home
Disruption During Construction: Expect noise, dust, and temporary inconvenience while work is underway.
Limited Plot Size: Your garden or plot may not allow significant expansion.
Planning & Building Regulations: Although many extensions are straightforward, some require planning approval, especially in conservation areas.
Overcapitalising: There’s a risk of spending more than your home will be worth post-renovation if not properly planned.
4. Advantages of Moving to a New House
a. Immediate Space Solution
You can find a home that already meets your needs—no waiting for construction or renovation.
b. Fresh Start
A new home can provide emotional renewal and new lifestyle opportunities, such as better schools or proximity to work.
c. Financial Upsizing or Downsizing
Depending on your goals, you might move to a more affordable area or upsize to accommodate your growing family.
5. Drawbacks of Moving
High Transaction Costs: Stamp duty, solicitors, surveys, removals, and estate agents quickly add up—often tens of thousands of pounds.
Uncertainty: House chains can collapse, valuations may fall short, and completion dates can be delayed.
Emotional Toll: Leaving behind familiar streets, neighbours, and routines can be more stressful than expected.
Limited Inventory: Especially in competitive Sussex markets, finding a house that fits your criteria and budget can be challenging.
6. Financial Comparison
Here’s a basic comparison for a typical Sussex homeowner:
Cost Type | Home Extension (Avg) | Moving House (Avg) |
Design & Planning | £2,000 – £5,000 | N/A |
Build Cost | £30,000 – £80,000 | N/A |
Stamp Duty | N/A | £5,000 – £15,000 |
Estate Agent Fees | N/A | £3,000 – £7,000 |
Solicitor Fees | N/A | £1,000 – £2,000 |
Removal Costs | N/A | £1,000 – £2,500 |
Refurbishment | N/A | £10,000+ (if needed) |
While extending may involve large upfront costs, moving often incurs hidden expenses that can exceed expectations.
7. Planning Permission and Legal Factors
Home Extension:
Permitted Development rights allow certain builds without full planning approval.
Building regulations still apply.
Easier process if you work with experienced local builders who understand Sussex councils.
Moving:
Full property surveys and legal due diligence are required.
Risk of delays from housing chains or mortgage lenders.
8. Emotional and Lifestyle Considerations
Do you value continuity? If your children are settled in schools and you love your community, staying put might be preferable.
Do you want a new environment? If your current home has limitations beyond space—like layout, light, or energy efficiency—moving could offer a better long-term solution.
9. Local Market Trends in Sussex
In areas like Worthing, home prices have seen steady growth, making extensions an appealing investment. However, rising demand also means limited housing stock, making it harder to find the perfect move.
Partnering with local experts like Force One Homes can help you understand whether your current property has extension potential that could meet your needs without the hassle of relocation.
Final Thoughts
Both options—home extension and moving—have their merits. The best choice depends on your priorities, budget, emotional ties, and long-term goals.
If you love your area and want to enhance your space, a house extension could provide the perfect solution. If your needs extend beyond what your property can offer, moving may be the right move.
Whichever path you choose, consult with local professionals for advice tailored to your specific situation. If you decide to expand your home instead, start by exploring expert house extensions in Sussex with trusted local specialists.
For complete Building Solutions in West Sussex, Force One Homes delivers high-quality extensions with a personal touch, right where you need them.
