What's the damage?
Estate agent's fees will probably be your greatest expense. Allow 1.5%-2.5% of the asking price, plus VAT.

Another major cost of selling is the solicitor's fees. Allow between 0.5% and 1% of the asking price plus VAT. You could try to negotiate a flat fee, but be wary: a fee of £2,000 on a £300,000 house could be a good deal - but would be less attractive on a flat worth £100,000.

Beware of a mortgage redemption charge if you are selling your property within a short period of time. Look at the small print - you may have to pay up to six months' interest or up to 5% of the outstanding mortgage. Or there may be administration and legal fees, especially if you have a fixed rate mortgage. You could save cash if you wait until the lock-in period is over.

Drive a hard bargain
It's worth trying to negotiate on the estate agent's commission. Agents may be open to this, particularly if it's a seller's market and they think they can sell your home quickly for a good price. Be tough. Some may agree to a flat fee (less of a good deal on cheaper properties). Don't forget that 17.5% VAT is payable on all commissions and fees. See Finding an Estate Agent.

Cut out the middle man
Consider advertising your home for sale in local (or even national) newspapers. If you sell privately you could save a lot of money in estate agent's fees (providing you haven't agreed to sole selling rights - see Finding an Estate Agent).

Double up
If you're selling and buying at the same time, it's worth using the same solicitor for both conveyancing processes, and possibly worth negotiating one flat fee. See Buying and Selling.