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Top tips to relocate in 2026

Posted on: Wednesday, January 14, 2026


Whether you’re moving to a nearby town or across the country, here are some important factors for you to consider to help make your move as smooth as possible: 

 

Calculate your budget 

Relocating involves more than just the purchase price, so it’s important to factor in all potential costs. This includes whether you’re looking for a move-in ready home or one that may need renovation, the cost of transporting your belongings, regional differences such as council tax, and any lifestyle expenses like commuting. Having a clear picture of what you can afford will help keep your search focused and avoid unexpected costs down the line. 

 

Determine your priorities 

Consider your reasons for moving and if the areas you’re looking at can accommodate them. Perhaps you’re wanting a shorter commute to work, or better schooling for your children? Do your research before you make any decisions and consider what your dealbreakers are. A property just a short walk from a supermarket might be worth sacrificing for a home with better transport links. 

 

Make use of resources 

Once you’ve narrowed down areas of interest, register with local estate agents and online property portals to receive alerts straight to your inbox. Local agents have a wealth of valuable insight into their areas, including information on schools, the community and current market conditions. As experts on the local market, they can often offer a deeper, more experienced perspective than online research alone, helping you make a more informed decision. 

 

Lifestyle 

Lifestyle plays a major part in relocating, so it’s worth thinking carefully about what you want day to day. You may be drawn to a close-knit community, served best by a quieter village setting, or prefer the energy of city living with a wider choice of amenities, entertainment and nightlife on your doorstep. Planning day trips to your chosen areas can help you get a real feel for the environment and decide whether it’s the right fit for you. 

 

Plan your timeframe 

It’s important to think carefully about timing and how it fits around your personal circumstances. You may need to align your move with school term dates, a new job start or ensuring your finances, such as mortgage arrangements, are in place. Allow enough flexibility in your timeframe to ensure a stress-free transition. 

 

Contact us 

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I would highly recommend Hardings. Their knowledge of the local area is outstanding, and they give honest and reliable advice. They have always been my partner of choice when buying and selling.

Rhiannon Prothero

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Have used Hardings for many year on both personal and commercial property deals. Have always found them to be transparent, honest, authentic, and a pleasure to work with. Will continue to use in the future.

TB

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I would highly recommend Hardings Estate Agents. They have excellent knowledge of Windsor and the surrounding areas, and are extremely professional, responsive and courteous. I would not hesitate to using them again the future. I recently dealt with Milica who was instrumental in securing us our new home in Windsor as well as the sale of our existing property. She was a fab negotiator and a real pleasure to work with from beginning to end. Thank you!

Jonathon Beresford

"

Hardings of Windsor managed our purchase with complete professionalism and went over and above in my opinion to manage the transaction and chain, resulting in a really smooth purchase. Milica at Hardings constantly provided timely updates and managed respective solicitors and the chain effectively, always responding quickly to queries. The whole transaction would not have happened without Milicas' focus on making all parties comfortable and satisfying all queries, not only professional but a delightful and welcoming personal approach that was a constant throughout. Thanks Hardings! Thanks Milica!

Stuart Blatch

"

I would recommend using Hardings estate agents when buying or selling your property. Dominic (Scully) was always available, helpful and genuinely interested in my purchase and always calm and compassionate. If I ever move again my first choice will be Hardings.

Cath Powell

"

Dom and the team at Hardings were so helpful and efficient when I purchased my flat - friendly and professional service and kept us up-to-date the whole way through the process. It was my first time buying and so was very nervous but they helped me feel at ease.

Freppell

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We bought and sold through Hardings and can't recommend their professional service enough. The whole Team are really lovely, we were kept informed throughout the process and never had to chase anything.

Natalie Quint

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I used Hardings when I bought my property as well as when I sold it and the service has been fantastic both times. I very much recommend Hardings!

Therese Jouini

"

We recently purchased our new home with Hardings Estate Agents. The whole team there were very helpful and flexible with us, arranging viewings quickly on the same day. They were always quick to respond and if ever our point of contact was not there, the service did not change as they work well together as a team. We received a personalised service, which allowed the sale to proceed quickly. Thank you all and we recommend Hardings Estate Agents without hesitation.

Mike B

"

What a pleasure it was to deal with Milica from Hardings. She sourced the perfect property for me and my family (while we were still abroad) and worked endlessly to put the deal together. I would give more than 5 stars if at all possible!

C D

"

Fantastic customer service and made what could have been stressful a total breeze. Dominic and Louisa were brilliant in helping me and my parents buy and sell our houses - reliable, helpful and thoughtful. Thank you!

Eloise Harris

"

Thank you, Dominic and Louisa - having not moved for over 30 years you helped me all the way, step by step. You were always polite, communicative, reassuring and very supportive. Would recommend Hardings wholeheartedly.

Anna Bowen
How Much is Your Property Worth?

How Much is Your Property Worth?

A senior member of our sales team will visit your property to discuss current market trends and how your home; based on size, condition and location should be pitched to achieve the best possible price and buyer. Coupled with an excellent understanding of the local market we do a detailed analysis of what else has sold and what is coming onto the market so we can give you the best chance to capitalise on your biggest asset.

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