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Women Let Men Sort Finances when Moving

New research from Halifax Estate Agents reveals that when moving, men with a partner or spouse are more likely to be solely responsible for sorting the finances than women.

48% of men in a relationship will typically manage the finances for moving, compared to 34% of women.  However, when it comes to deciding when and where to move, results show it is a joint decision. 

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The key findings were:

• 65% of UK couples will make a joint decision to move
• 48% of men will sort out the finances alone
• We are less likely to consult with our partners as we get older, 69% of those under 35 make a joint decision to move compared to 58% of the over 65s
• The Welsh are the most likely region to jointly agree when to move (77%)

Most UK couples make a joint decision to move – The majority of UK adults (65%) who live with their spouse or partner will make a joint decision when deciding to sell or move.  Furthermore, just over two thirds of Brits (69%) will make a joint decision when it comes to buying or renting a new property.  Typically, UK adults are less likely to sort out the finances jointly when moving, with just 36% sharing the responsibility.

A battle of the sexes?

Marginal differences between the sexes when deciding to move – When moving and then choosing a new home, there is little difference between men and women in the decision-making.  19% of men and 21% of women said they act alone when choosing to move.  Additionally, there is only a marginal difference between men and women who say they make the decision to move jointly with their partner, with men at 64% and women at 66%.

Half of men will sort out the finances alone – The gender gap may be small when deciding to move, but when it comes to sorting out the finances for a new home, nearly half of men (48%) will sort the finances out alone.  In comparison, only a third of women (34%) will be solely responsible for getting the books in order before the move.  26% of women will let their spouse or partner make financial preparations, compared to just 17% of men. 

Across the ages

Joint decisions to move decreases with age – Younger generations are most likely to make a joint decision with 72% of 16 – 24 year olds, not wanting to decide alone.  In contrast, only 58% of the over 65s will involve their partner or spouse when deciding to move.

Big difference in younger generations' financial organisation – 50% of 25 – 34 year olds say they alone sort the finances when moving house.  In comparison, only a quarter (23%) of 16 – 24 year olds would make independent preparations, with 51% preferring to share the responsibility. 

Geographical differences

The Welsh think two minds are better than one when moving – Regionally, the Welsh are the most likely to make a joint decision with nearly four fifths (77%) agreeing two minds are better than one.  Conversely, those in Yorkshire and Humber prefer to go it alone, with only53% making a joint decision to move. 

Half of the North will sort the finances jointly –The North is the highest region when sorting finances jointly (51%).  With only a quarter (24%), the East Midlands is the lowest region for arranging the finances together.  

Gordon Edwards, managing director, Halifax Estate Agents, commented:

" Buying a house is the biggest purchase most of us are likely to make.  If you are deciding to sell your home, purchase a new property or sorting the finances for a move, it's important to involve your partner in the decision-making process."

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