Buying a home is a big move for anyone. It’s probably the biggest financial purchase most of us will make, but in addition to the economic considerations, it’s about putting down roots. For many this will be due to a change in family circumstances or a new job, but whatever the reason, buying a house will provide certainty and security and a place to call home.
When deciding what to buy there are many factors to consider – some absolute, some not. Location and proximity to family, work, amenities etc; costs of mortgage deposit and repayments and then of running the house; size – how many rooms do you need?; facilities – does it have a garden or a balcony? And when deciding on all these interlinked considerations there are always going to be compromises and tensions.
Some people will have some very set ideas and preconceptions about what they want. But, whilst being open minded and considering all options could mean ending up in a home you never expected to, it could be one that is right for you.
Many people rule out new build before they start. They may never have actually visited a new build development to see what is actually being produced and so are basing their assumptions on outdated misconceptions picked up from snatched conversations or a negative media report (are there ever any positive ones?). But in doing so, they could be missing out on a home that is perfect for them.
New builds do have a lot to offer.
There are schemes available to help people buy. These could mean that people don’t need to save as big a deposit as for a second hand home (Help to Buy only requires a 5% deposit) or that they could buy a bigger or better located home than they originally thought. And the sales staff employed by housebuilders are well trained to help guide people though the complexities of the buying process.
In terms of the actual homes, new builds are built to extremely high standards and designed for the demands of today’s life styles. Everything in them is brand new and untouched with beautiful, modern fixtures throughout. So, unlike a second hand home, you don’t need to move in and start spending money on getting a new kitchen or bathroom fitted or having to spend every weekend up a ladder decorating.
New homes are also much more energy efficient than their predecessors and so buyers will save money every month on bills; plus, if there are any structural issues in the first ten years, they are covered by a warranty.
There are many other benefits offered by new builds so, when considering your options, it is at least worth having a look at what is actually on offer.
Visit a show home and see what today’s new build homes could offer you. You may be surprised!