New figures have revealed that hidden home-buying costs in the South East could be £10,000 higher than the UK average.

The data, from life insurance broker LifeSearch, recorded the average costs of solicitor and conveyance fees, surveyor fees, leasehold, stamp duty, moving vans, deposits and furniture across all UK regions.

The research has shown what the minimum savings first-time property buyers in each region will need, on top of the price of the property itself.

On average, UK properties come with £35,839 in hidden costs, but in the South East, this number rises to £46,844 - which is £11,005 higher.

This makes the South East the region with the second highest hidden costs, coming behind only London, where LifeSearch reported an average £76,434 in hidden costs.

Emma Walker, from LifeSearch, commented: “Buying your first home should be an exciting time in your life, and not a time to be worrying about hidden costs along the way.

“A home is probably one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll ever make, so it makes sense to insure it, especially in times of such financial uncertainty.

“Cover such as mortgage life insurance is recommended when buying a home as it will take the financial strain off your family should the worst happen.”