New year, new home – Tips for a smooth property move in 2026

Property prices in London witnessed a cooling-off period in the last few months of 2025 as supply increased to decade-high levels. With more homes available and sellers pricing competitively, many buyers made the most of this situation and decided to make the move. As conveyancing and the other buying formalities are completed, thousands of buyers will look to upsize and move to new homes in the new year.

With more affordable mortgages and easing rental inflation, many first-time buyers and tenants will also be moving homes. However, while the market supports movement, those taking the plunge need to make sure they get a few things right to make this journey smooth, easy and hassle-free.

With over 65 years in the property business, we understand how stressful this moving phase can be, and therefore, we have a few expert tips to make this transition easier.

Start with a clear checklist in place

Before contacting the movers and packers to wrap up all your belongings, you should have a proper plan in place, with dates and a budget earmarked. To be on the safe side, always plan ahead and keep an extra budget ready to accommodate delays and other contingencies. A new home may also need a few new items or appliances, and getting rid of or giving away old things. Having a list handy can help get everything in order.

Many buyers also look to get new furniture or make upgrades to their new homes. We can help by providing
complete furniture packs and renovations to personalise your new home interiors to match your taste.

Research on the neighbourhood you are moving to

Whether it is moving closer to your workplace in Canary Wharf and the City, choosing a vibrant Zone 1 neighbourhood like Nine Elms and Marylebone or upsizing to a bigger house in a family-friendly area, such as Hampstead and Wembley, it is important to research the area. There are many tools and guides available online to help figure out connectivity options, such as the nearest Tube or railway station, as well as top schools in the vicinity. As a leading estate and letting agent, we have 21 branches across London with local property experts who can help you with more than just finding the right home.

Using digital conveyancing tools for speed

Completing a property sale in London can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months on average. While you need to be patient with the process, there are a few steps buyers can take to speed things up. Digital conveyancing tools in the UK now allow real-time tracking of each case, automated ID verification, faster document transfers, AI-driven fraud checks, and even centralised communication between buyers and their solicitors and agents.

If you are looking to sell your London property, we can help you find the right buyer and also determine the right price with a free property valuation.

Getting your new home ready to suit your lifestyle

Depending on diverse needs, whether single, married, living with a spouse or partner, or a large family, a new home will need to resonate with your lifestyle. For hybrid or work-from-home professionals, setting up a dedicated workspace or a home office may be essential. Similarly, pet parents may need to create safe spaces and indoor enclosures with adequate storage options for household items.

Professional property management to make moving easy

For those selling and buying new homes or even tenants relocating to London, there are many financial and other documentation processes that require close attention. At such times, outsourcing things like minor fixes to the property and handling compliances, like EPC regulations and other safety obligations, can be a big help.

At Benham and Reeves, we specialise in helping landlords and remote property owners with a one-stop property management service that ensures a move-in-ready home right in time for occupancy. Our range of services covers the buying, selling and letting needs of landlords and homeowners all across London.

Make 2026 a bright year for new beginnings in your home and leave the rest to us.

Looking for expert property advice in London? Contact us