UK long-distance movers are now relocating an average of 52 miles from their original location, rising to over 80 miles in some regions, as affordability pressures and lifestyle priorities drive buyers further afield.
Latest research by GetAgent Exchange found that many are sacrificing proximity to major towns and cities in favour of space, value and a slower pace of life.
Just under a quarter (23%) of buyers cited a move away from the city as their primary reason for relocating, while another 23% were upsizing to accommodate a growing family.
While downsizers narrowly accounted for the largest share of market activity (41%), upsizers were close behind at 37%, with first-time buyers making up just 22% of recent transactions – a likely reflection of ongoing mortgage constraints despite marginal improvements in affordability.
REGIONAL DIFFERENCES
The data shows that regional differences are driving this trend. The average mover in Scotland is relocating 81 miles, followed by 70 miles in the South West, underlining how affordability and lifestyle are prompting more dramatic shifts.
When asked which stage of the process they found most difficult, buyers were most likely to point to the legal and conveyancing stage, followed by managing the logistics of their move and the timeline of their sale and purchase.
Encouragingly, estate agents were generally well received, with 69% of sellers rating their agent as good or excellent, and an identical 69% saying the same about the agent they bought through. Still, this leaves a third of buyers and sellers whose experience was average or poor, suggesting a gap in service that could be improved.
CROSS-MARKET COLLABORATION
Colby Short, Co-founder and CEO of GetAgent Exchange, says: “With long-distance moves averaging over 50 miles, affordability and lifestyle continue to drive buyers to look further afield for better value and quality of life. Whether upsizing or downsizing, many buyers are prepared to relocate significant distances to get what they want.
“This makes the agent’s role even more pivotal. From managing longer, more complex chains to providing seamless handovers between buying and selling agents, there’s real value in cross-market collaboration.
“GetAgent Exchange exists to make that connection easier – helping agents support their buyers in selling their existing property, wherever they’re moving from, while also benefiting from referral revenue.”
