The UK’s stamp duty holiday ends in April 2025, pushing moving costs higher. This makes minimizing lifetime moves financially prudent. According to Zoopla, Britons move eight times on average, five before 30. One of these moves is typically to a “forever home.” Finding this home early is financially wise but complex. We consulted four property experts for advice on finding your forever home in 2025.
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Defining a Forever Home
A forever home ideally accommodates you from raising children to retirement. It must satisfy numerous criteria, encompassing both the property and its location. Sarah Walker, an independent estate agent in Richmond, notes that forever homes often align with life stages like raising families or retirement. They represent long-term commitments chosen for longevity.
Most people live in a property for 5-10 years before moving, but forever homes are held much longer. Marc Schneiderman of Arlington Residential states that forever home owners typically own for about 25 years, citing a rare case of ownership spanning 65 years.
The Timing of Forever Home Purchases
While individual circumstances vary, most people begin searching for their forever home in their late 30s to early 50s. By this age, priorities like proximity to schools, retirement planning, and establishing roots become clearer. However, rising moving costs are incentivizing earlier forever home purchases. Zoopla’s consumer expert, Daniel Copley, observes that with the average home transaction occurring every 20 years and the average buyer being 34, many aim for their forever home as their first property purchase.
Distinguishing Forever Home Purchases
This is likely your most significant property investment, demanding a rational approach. Avoid impulsive decisions based on superficial features. Forever homes require careful consideration as they must adapt to various life stages. This includes potential for expansions like extra bedrooms, annexes for elderly parents, home offices, or accessibility modifications for aging occupants.
Schneiderman emphasizes the need for expansion possibilities and future-proofing, such as avoiding multi-level homes if stairs might become challenging later. Copley suggests considering value-adding opportunities like extensions or kitchen upgrades. Walker highlights flexibility, suggesting that open-plan layouts might evolve into a need for quiet zones. Practicalities like storage, natural light, and energy efficiency are crucial for long-term living.
Location, Location, Location
Walker underscores the importance of the surrounding area, citing good schools, transport links, parks, and community as priorities. She advises clients to consider long-term suitability, including amenities for retirement years.
Strategies for Finding Your Forever Home in 2025
Finding a forever home can be challenging due to budget constraints or the sheer magnitude of finding a home for 20+ years. Walker recommends starting with a clear vision of your “forever,” listing non-negotiables and desirable features. Realism about budget is vital, but look for properties with growth potential. Consider if a property can be transformed into your forever home over time.
These sought-after properties require preparedness. Mark Wells, CEO of Invisible Homes, notes that sellers can be selective with buyers due to high demand. Maintain consistent contact with local estate agents to gain access to the best properties.
Copley advises securing a “mortgage in principle” to demonstrate seriousness and understand affordability. Finally, Walker reminds us that a forever home isn’t about perfection but potential – a place to grow into and shape over time.
