Are you considering buying a new build home? If so, there are many questions you need to ask before you decide to sign on that dotted line. There are some key differences between new builds and existing properties. This can include financing options, move-in dates and the fact that new builds purchases are chain-free.
Today, our team at Cobb Farr will give you answers to your most common questions including the advantages of investing in a new build, which questions you should ask and whether it’s a good idea to buy off plan.
Why should you consider investing in a new build property?
There are numerous advantages to buying a brand-new home. Here are some of the reasons why…
They’re more eco-friendly
When you buy a new home, you’ll get a property that has been designed with energy efficiency in mind. This often includes features like double glazing, heat pumps, electric car charging panels and energy-efficient systems that help protect the environment and save money on utility bills.
They don’t need repairs or renovation
When you buy a new build, you can simply unpack your belongings and enjoy your new home, totally stress-free. You won’t even need to think about redecorating, renovation or structural problems because everything will be solved before you move in.
They’re chain-free
By choosing a new build, you’ll be the very first owner of this house so the transaction will be chain-free. As a result, buying your home should be quicker and easier and there is less risk of the purchase falling through or being unnecessarily delayed.
There might be financial help available
Many developers offer incentives to encourage buyers to purchase new builds. This can include extra features, special financing or covering Stamp Duty costs for you.
In addition, the UK government also offers various financing opportunities designed to help first-time buyers including the Help to Buy Scheme and the Shared Ownership Scheme that help first-time buyers get onto the property ladder.
There may be customisation options available
Even though a new build property will be ready to move in, you can often customise certain parts of your new home including the floor plan, finishing and certain fixtures. If you are interested in a particular property, ask the developer’s representatives if this is a possibility, ensuring that your new home can meet your personal taste.
Which questions should you ask when buying a new build house?
If you’re considering investing in a new build property, you should ensure you ask several key questions before you decide to buy. This can help ensure you have a beautiful new home and can avoid any potential problems in the future.
Here’s what our team at Cobb Farr recommends you ask.
- What else has the developer worked on?
Start by doing research into the builder’s reputation so you can understand their reliability, the quality of their workmanship and whether your potential new home could be a good investment.
You can do this by speaking directly to representatives of the development company, doing your own research and reading online reviews. If you have time and are close to the site itself, pop along for a look.
- What is included with the new build home?
When you buy a new build home, you won’t necessarily be able to see a finished building so it can be difficult to understand what is included and what isn’t. That’s why you should ask what is included in your new home such as finishes, storage, landscaping and so on.
If possible, ask for a list of what is included to avoid any unwanted surprises. The developer should be happy to provide this, including copies of the architectural drawings, plans, and specifications for the build.
By taking this step, you should better understand what you’re getting and what else you need to budget for.
- How energy efficient is the property?
While all new build properties are designed to be as energy efficient as possible, this can vary between individual homes. That’s why it pays to check what materials have been used, how the systems work, which utility companies supply the property and the estimates for running costs.
All private homes should have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a rating of E or above before it can be sold so check the rating of the new build that you’re interested in to find out what the potential running costs could be.
- Does it have a New Home Warranty?
While most new build homes are brand new and problem free, it pays to check whether the property you’re interested in has a New Home Warranty.
This protects you from property defects for the first two years followed by structural defects for an additional eight years. If so, ask the developer what their chosen policy covers including what you’re paying for, how much and for how long as it can vary between providers.
- When can I move in?
At the beginning of a development, the property developer should be able to provide an estimate of when you will be able to move in and when to apply for a mortgage.
They can usually provide a move in date within a one to two month window and provide more specific information as the building nears completion.
However, factors beyond their control can affect your move in date so ensure you ask plenty of questions, including whether there is a long stop completion date in the sale contract. This simply means that you will be entitled to compensation and can terminate the contract if the project isn’t ready by the specified date.
Should I buy a new build ‘off plan’?
When you buy ‘off plan’, you’re purchasing a new build either before work has begun or before the developer has completed the project. By leaving a small deposit, you can secure your property ahead of many others and look forward to living in your brand-new home.
It’s always a good idea to get legal advice first to ensure you can get a mortgage and to check for any other legal implications you should be aware of.
Summary
Buying a new build home is an excellent option if you want a chain-free, eco-friendly property that is ready to move straight into. There are also many financial incentives to help cover the costs of your purchase and help you get onto the UK property ladder.
If you’re considering a new build development, ask the questions we’ve outlined above so you understand exactly what is involved before you decide to invest in a new build property.
Get in touch today if you’d like more information on the new builds available in Bath, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire or Somerset. Our friendly team here at Cobb Farr is always happy to help.
