Extensions vs Moving: Which Adds More Value?

Extensions vs Moving | DJJ Projects Essex

Should you extend your home or move?

Explore the costs, benefits, and value of house extensions vs moving in Essex, Kent & East London.

Introduction

At some point, many homeowners face the same dilemma: do we extend our current home or move somewhere new?

In areas like Essex, Kent, and East London, where property prices continue to climb and space is at a premium, it’s a question worth serious consideration.

Building an extension has become one of the most popular ways to create extra space, add value, and avoid the stress of moving, but it’s not always the right answer for everyone.

So, which option offers the best long-term value?

Let’s explore the pros, cons, and costs to help you make an informed choice.

The Case for Extending Your Home

For many families, extending is the natural choice.

It allows you to stay rooted in your community while transforming your home into the space you need, without the upheaval of moving.

Here’s why extensions often win out:

Lower Overall Cost Compared to Moving

While a high-quality extension can cost anywhere between £40,000 and £100,000, moving to a larger home can cost far more once you factor in fees, stamp duty, and increased mortgage repayments.

In most cases, extending delivers more space for less money, and you get to enjoy the improvement immediately.

No Stamp Duty, Solicitor or Estate Agent Fees

When you move, you’ll typically spend thousands in transaction costs:

• Stamp duty (potentially £10,000+)

• Solicitor and conveyancing fees

• Estate agent commission

• Removal and storage costs

  
  

With an extension, you invest every penny directly into improving your property, not into fees that add no value.

Tailored Design to Suit Your Lifestyle

Extensions give you the flexibility to create spaces that truly work for you, whether that’s a larger kitchen-diner, home office, or extra bedroom.

You can match the materials to your existing home, choose your layout, and design a space that reflects your family’s needs now and in the future.

Adds Value..Often More Than It Costs to Build

A well-designed extension can increase your home’s value by 10–20%, depending on the project.

That means many homeowners recover (or exceed) their investment when they sell later, especially in sought-after areas like Essex and East London.

The Case for Moving

While extending has clear advantages, there are times when moving makes more sense.

Access to New Areas, Schools or Transport Links

Sometimes the need for change goes beyond space.Moving can open doors to better schools, shorter commutes, or a new lifestyle, benefits that even the best extension can’t replicate.

If your current area no longer suits your family’s long-term goals, relocation may be the better investment.

Opportunity to Find a Home That Fits Perfectly

Extending a property can only achieve so much, especially if your plot or layout limits what’s possible.

Moving allows you to find a home that ticks all the boxes without the design or planning constraints of your current space.

Avoiding the Disruption of Building Works

No matter how well-managed your project is, an extension means living through noise, dust, and construction for several months.

Some homeowners simply prefer the clean slate that comes with moving into a completed property.

Cost Comparison: Extension vs Moving

Here’s how the numbers can sometimes stack up:

Category	Typical Extension	Moving to a Bigger Home
Build Cost	£40,000 – £100,000	—
Stamp Duty	£0	£10,000 – £25,000+
Solicitor & Agent Fees	£0	£3,000 – £6,000
Removal Costs	£0	£1,000 – £2,000
Mortgage Difference	£0	Potentially £300–£700+ extra per month

When you add it all up, an extension is often significantly cheaper, and that’s before you consider the extra value it can add to your property.

Long-Term Value: What the Numbers Say

Extensions are one of the few home investments that can truly pay for themselves.

According to industry data:

• A kitchen extension can add 10–15% to your property value.

• A double-storey side or rear extension can boost value by up to 20%.

• Loft conversions can return 70–80% of their cost in added value.

  
  

Moving, on the other hand, doesn’t guarantee value gain. I

n fact, you could end up paying more for a larger home in a hot market without seeing a proportional increase in long-term equity.

In short:

Extensions build value. Moving buys it.

Hidden Factors to Consider

Beyond cost and value, there are practical and emotional factors that play a big role in the decision.

Timeline

• Extensions: Typically take 3–6 months from planning to completion (longer for complex builds).

• Moving: Can take just as long once you factor in selling, conveyancing, and chains.

  
  

Stress & Disruption

Building can be messy, but moving is equally stressful, packing, redecorating, and adjusting to new surroundings all take their toll.

Community & Lifestyle

If you love your neighbourhood, local shops, and school catchment, extending lets you stay put while improving your living space.

FAQs

Do extensions always need planning permission?

Not always. Many single-storey extensions, loft conversions, and rear additions fall under permitted development rights.

However, it’s vital to check with your local planning authority or builder before starting, especially if your property is listed or in a conservation area.

How long does an extension take?

Most extensions take around 12–20 weeks, depending on weather, complexity, and materials.

Is it cheaper to build up or out?

Generally, building up (a two-storey extension) gives better value per square metre than building out, though it depends on your site and design.

Can I live at home during the build?

Yes, in most cases.

Professional contractors will work to minimise disruption, although some areas (like kitchens or bathrooms) may be temporarily unusable during key phases.

So..Extend or Move?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here’s a simple way to decide:

If you...	Then consider...
Love your current area	Extend
Need more space, but your plot allows it	Extend
Want new schools, commute, or area	Move
Prefer a turnkey property, no disruption	Move

Final Thoughts

Choosing between extending and moving is about more than cost, it’s about how you want to live.

If you’re settled in your area and your home has potential, an extension can unlock that value, giving you space, comfort, and a bespoke home that works perfectly for your lifestyle.

If, however, your needs have changed or your current property has reached its limit, moving may be the more practical choice.

Either way, it’s worth speaking with an experienced design and build specialist who can help you understand what’s possible, what it will cost, and how much value it could add.

If you're thinking of extending your current property in Essex, Kent, Suffolk or East London get in touch today, DJJ Projects can provide a free quotation for all works from start to finish.

www.djjprojects.co.uk