Moving Made Simple As Dandara Drives Part Exchange Uptake In Kent

With rising borrowing costs and slower property chains causing headaches for homeowners across the South East, more buyers are turning to part exchange as a way to move without the usual stress – and developers are taking notice. Part exchange is increasingly used as a practical solution for those facing delayed chains or uncertainty in a cooling resale market, with major developers reporting a rise in uptake in the past two years[1].

Interest in the part exchange scheme at The Russetts, Dandara’s development in Hawkhurst, has noticeably increased over the past year, as buyers seek certainty in a market that’s anything but. The scheme allows buyers to effectively trade in their existing home to help fund a new property at the development, which features a mix of two, three and four bedroom houses near the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Recent data supports the growing trend. More than 165 UK housebuilders now offer part exchange, up from around 150 in 2021[2] with some major firms have reported using part exchange in up to 25% of all sales. A market study from Competition and Markets Authority also highlights part exchange as a key mechanism for enabling smoother transactions and freeing up housing supply[3]. 

Part Exchange incentives for most housebuilders are applicable for buyers who are upsizing in value; however Dandara’s Part Exchange scheme allows buyers who are downsizing in value to use the scheme also. 

The appeal is straightforward. Rather than listing their old property on the open market, prospective buyers are offered a valuation via local estate agents, with a formal survey carried out by RICS. If the offer is accepted, they can reserve their new home and remain in their current property until the new one is ready – eliminating chains, negotiation pitfalls and timing mismatches. At The Russetts, homes eligible for part exchange include spacious family homes with private gardens and integrated appliances as standard.

Alexander Dowling, Sales Director at Dandara South East, said: “We’ve definitely seen a shift in how people are thinking about moving. For a lot of families, it’s not just about finding the right new home – it’s the stress of selling that holds them back. Part exchange takes that whole worry off the table. You’re not chasing viewings, you’re not stuck waiting on a chain, and you’re not putting your life on hold. 

While part exchange isn’t right for every situation the trade-off often comes down to peace of mind versus price. For those in the right position, the scheme offers a realistic way to move quickly, especially in areas like Kent where the family housing market remains competitive and second-step homes are in high demand.

The Russetts is one of several Dandara developments where part exchange is being actively offered. Buyers interested in the scheme are encouraged to speak to the sales team, who work with local agents and RICS-qualified surveyors to assess eligibility and provide clear, straightforward guidance from start to finish.

 
[1] https://hoa.org.uk/advice/guides-for-homeowners/i-am-buying/part-exchange-house/
[2] https://hoa.org.uk/advice/guides-for-homeowners/i-am-buying/part-exchange-house/
[3] https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65d8baed6efa83001ddcc5cd/Housebuilding_market_study_final_report.pdf