Moving house isn’t what it used to be. With rising rents and a difficult UK property market, more people are finding themselves caught between short-term lets, long-term plans, and everything in between. Enter self storage when moving house: the flexible solution you didn’t know you needed.
Whether you’re downsizing temporarily, waiting on a mortgage to go through, or staging your home to sell, self storage can take the pressure off. This guide explains how to make self storage when moving house work for you, especially if you’re navigating the space between renting and buying.
Why Is Everyone Talking About Self Storage When Moving House?
According to the Self Storage Association UK, 81% of customers are domestic users, and demand is steadily growing. Why? Because more people are realising the benefits of self storage when moving house. It offers flexibility, peace of mind, and breathing space when plans don’t go perfectly—which, let’s face it, is often the case in today’s property market.
The Cost of Waiting: Why Self Storage Can Save You Money
The average rent in the UK has gone up by £221 a month in just three years. If you’re waiting for your house sale to complete or your mortgage to be approved, renting a bigger property just to store your stuff can feel like money down the drain.
Self storage, on the other hand, offers a secure and affordable alternative. You only pay for the space you need, and you can access your unit whenever you want.
See our Furniture and Household Storage options here.
How the Mortgage Guarantee Scheme Supports First-Time Buyers
Buying your first home can feel out of reach when house prices are high, interest rates fluctuate, and your deposit doesn’t stretch far. But that’s where the UK Government’s Mortgage Guarantee Scheme comes in. Extended until July 2025, the scheme is designed to support first-time buyers by encouraging lenders to offer 95% loan-to-value (LTV) mortgages—meaning you could buy a home with just a 5% deposit.
Lenders who sign up to the scheme receive a government-backed guarantee on part of the mortgage, making it less risky for them to approve loans to buyers with smaller deposits. That, in turn, makes it easier for you to get on the property ladder.
So, where does self storage when moving house fit into all this?
If you’re preparing to buy but haven’t yet found the right property, self storage when moving house gives you breathing room. You can declutter your current home to maximise its resale value, or move out temporarily and store your belongings safely while you rent or house-hunt. For many first-time buyers, flexibility is essential and that’s where affordable self storage can make a real difference.
With the cost of living still high and rental prices up by an average of £221 a month in just three years, according to BBC News, every penny counts. Self storage is often a more cost-effective option than paying for a larger rental just to accommodate all your belongings during the transition period.
If you’re buying with a small deposit, it also helps to reduce moving stress. You can move in stages, avoid last-minute packing chaos, and start your new chapter with clarity and confidence.
Recommended: What are the Most Common Self Storage Questions in the UK?
Self Storage When Moving House: Who Needs It Most?
- First-time buyers waiting for mortgage approvals or saving for a deposit.
- Sellers staging their homes and needing to reduce clutter.
- Downsizers transitioning to a smaller property.
- Families moving into temporary accommodation.
- Homeowners facing unexpected delays between sale and purchase.
If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone. Find out how our Personal Storage options can help.
How To Pack Your Storage Unit Like A Pro
- Label everything clearly – Use big, bold labels that can be read without moving boxes around.
- Use shelving units – Take advantage of vertical space to keep items accessible.
- Store items by frequency of use – Keep essentials near the front and seasonal or rarely used items at the back.
- Protect fragile items – Bubble wrap, blankets, and sturdy boxes go a long way.
- Create a simple inventory – A quick list or photo log can help you remember what’s in your unit.
The Benefits of Downsizing and Using Self Storage When Moving House
Downsizing doesn’t have to mean parting with things you care about. A storage unit allows you to:
- Keep sentimental items safe while freeing up space.
- Test the waters before fully committing to a minimalist lifestyle.
- Reduce visual clutter and make your new space feel more inviting.
Many of our customers downsize and then realise they didn’t miss half the things they had packed away. Storage lets you keep your options open. If you find yourself wondering what to put in self storage, read this guide on 25 items that may be taking up too much space.
Final Thoughts on Self Storage When Moving House
Whether you’re caught between leases, staging your home for sale, or jumping into the property market for the first time, self storage when moving house can give you the flexibility, security, and peace of mind you need. It’s not just about storing things—it’s about making your move smoother and your life less stressful.
It’s time you move on your own terms and benefit fully from using self storage when moving house. At Space Centre, we will help find a solution that works for you.