Why buy new?
High specification home and hassle-free living, reducing the need for DIY or costly repairs
Whether you’re taking your first step onto the property ladder or looking for somewhere new to call home, buying a new property is one of the biggest decisions you will ever need to make. New build homes are an ideal option for those looking for a high specification home and hassle-free living, reducing the need for DIY or costly repairs.
So if the words ‘fixer upper’ send a chill down your spine, a low-maintenance new home could be the answer to your prayers.
Here are some of the main reasons for opting to purchase a new build.
Better quality: New builds tend to be of a higher quality than older properties due to the use of better materials and more advanced building techniques. This means that you can rest assured knowing your home will last for many years to come. In addition, provided you secure your new build early enough, it’s likely you’ll also be given the choice of a selection of tile, carpet and worktop finishes to choose from. Of course, this isn’t the case with every developer, and it’s something you need to ask before committing to a purchase.
Low maintenance costs: Many new build properties are built with low maintenance costs in mind, meaning that they require less upkeep over time and may not need repairs or redecorations as often as older homes would. A new build home is a blank canvas, ready for you to move into and add your own style, with no work needed to repair damage left behind by previous occupants. Another one of the perks of buying a new build home is that the garden provides a blank space and an opportunity to design it in a way which makes it as low maintenance as your lifestyle requires. This means you can choose plants that require minimal care, or are largely self-sufficient.
Energy efficiency: New builds must be highly energy efficient and are designed with improved insulation, double glazing and energy-saving appliances, which save on utility bill costs in the long run. Developments in areas such as insulation, low-energy lighting and solar panel systems have meant far less energy is required to keep a home running for longer. Typically, the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating for a new home in the UK is A or B, whilst older homes are often rated as E or lower. By using less energy, new build owners also play a significant part in protecting the environment by reducing their carbon footprint.
Warranty protection: Many new builds come with a warranty that covers you for any repair or replacement costs up to ten years after purchase, giving additional peace of mind. Cover usually starts from the time you exchange contracts and includes protection for your deposit as well as insurance against any major defects, such as foundations, external render, load-bearing parts of flooring and so on. It’s just one less thing you have to worry about.
Modern amenities/features: New build properties often come with modern amenities and features such as open plan kitchens, en-suite bathrooms, integrated appliances and energy-efficient heating systems, making them much more attractive than older homes. They may also offer extra storage solutions such as built in wardrobes or large loft spaces which are great for growing families. In most cases, your brand-new home will have larger windows to allow in more natural light, and wider door openings for prams and wheelchairs. Floor areas for new builds are usually designed for open-plan living, which means you can enjoy a generous amount of space to cater for every type of family event.
Finance schemes: There are financial incentives that are only available for buyers who are purchasing a new build home. The incentives can be things such as helping put money towards a deposit, part-exchange deals (where they buy your existing home and sell it on) or shared equity schemes. Some may also offer paying your stamp duty, paying your deposit, free fixtures and fittings, white goods, interior design advice or landscaping, and offering cashback.
Overall, buying a new build home provides numerous benefits over older properties, with quality construction, low maintenance costs, energy efficiency, warranty protection and modern amenities/features.
Want to find the right mortgage?
Buying your new home is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. Our experienced team can assist you with finding the right mortgage. Ready to look at your options? Contact The Surrey Mortgage Broker – telephone 01252 759233– email richard@thesurreymortgagebroker.co.uk