Buying your first home is a big step. If you’re thinking about buying a new-build home, you’re not alone. More and more people in the UK are choosing brand-new homes because of the energy savings, modern designs, and helpful support schemes.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know in plain English—from benefits and buying steps to useful tips and important checks.
What Is a New-Build Home?
A new-build home is a property that has just been built and has never been lived in before. You can sometimes even buy it before it’s finished—this is called buying off-plan.
Top Benefits of Buying a New-Build Home
🔹 You Can Buy Before It’s Built
- Many homes are sold off-plan, meaning you reserve it before construction finishes.
- You pay a reservation fee (usually around £1,000) to hold your chosen plot.
🔹 Choose Your Own Finishes
- Pick your kitchen colour, flooring, tiles, and more.
- The earlier you reserve, the more design choices you’ll have.
🔹 Low Maintenance
- No fixing old pipes or broken walls.
- Everything is new, so you can relax for the first few years.
🔹 Energy Efficient
- Most new-builds have A or B EPC ratings.
- You can save up to 55% on energy bills compared to older homes.
🔹 No Upward Chain
- You’re not waiting on someone else to move out.
- This makes the process faster and less stressful.
🔹 Safety Comes Built-In
- New homes come with fire doors, secure locks, and modern safety features.
🔹 Freehold Ownership (in most cases)
- You own the building and the land, which means no ground rent.
What Steps Are Involved in Buying a New-Build?
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Step 1: Find Your New Home
- Visit show homes or check online listings.
- Ask the builder for floorplans and development details.
Step 2: Reserve Your Property
- Pay a reservation fee to secure your chosen home.
- Get a confirmation letter with timelines and next steps.
Step 3: Get Your Mortgage and Legal Help
- Speak to a mortgage advisor who understands new-build loans.
- Hire a conveyancer (a lawyer who handles property paperwork).
📝 Tip: Mortgage offers usually last 3–6 months. Make sure your home will be ready within this time.
Step 4: Watch the Build Progress
- The developer will give you an estimated completion date.
- You can visit the site and ask for updates.
Step 5: Exchange Contracts
- Once everything is ready, sign the contract and pay your deposit.
- Make sure your contract includes a snagging clause.
Step 6: Move In!
- Get the keys and enjoy your fresh, clean home.
- Don’t forget to check for snags before settling in.
What Is a Snagging Survey?
A snagging survey checks for small problems or unfinished work. You can do it yourself or hire a professional. Things to check:
| Area | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Walls & Paint | Cracks, uneven paint, nail pops |
| Floors & Tiles | Loose tiles, gaps, poor finishes |
| Plumbing | Dripping taps, leaks, water pressure |
| Electrics | Working sockets, switches, lights |
| Windows & Doors | Smooth opening/closing, sealing gaps |
| Kitchen & Bathroom | Fitting issues, cracked surfaces |
Tell your builder to fix these before your warranty period ends.
Support Schemes to Help You Buy
There are a few government and industry schemes that make it easier to buy a new-build:
🔸 Deposit Unlock
- Buy a home with just 5% deposit.
- Supported by big builders like Barratt and Vistry.
🔸 New Build Boost (by Gen H)
- Get a 15% interest-free loan + a 5% deposit.
- Makes mortgages easier with 80% loan-to-value options.
🔸 Shared Ownership
- Buy a portion of the home and pay rent on the rest.
- Later, you can buy more shares when you can afford it.
🔸 First Homes Scheme
- Offers a 30–50% discount for local first-time buyers and key workers.
- You must earn less than £80,000 (£90,000 in London).
What About Warranties and Protection?
Most new-builds come with a 10-year warranty from providers like NHBC, Premier Guarantee, or LABC.
Warranty Cover Includes:
- 2 years: Builder must fix any defects.
- Up to 10 years: Covers major structural issues.
- Pre-completion cover: If your builder goes bust after you pay your deposit.
The Consumer Code for Home Builders
This code protects buyers by making sure builders:
- Give clear contracts and timelines.
- Provide regular updates and aftercare.
- Offer a fair dispute service if something goes wrong.
It’s like having a rulebook that builders must follow to protect you.
Final Tips Before You Buy
- Compare builders: Not all developers are the same—read reviews.
- Understand the timelines: Ask for a realistic completion date.
- Get everything in writing: From finishing dates to any free extras.
- Plan your budget: New homes have lower bills, but still budget for legal and moving costs.
- Visit the property site: Don’t just rely on brochures or websites.
Conclusion
Buying a new-build home can be a smooth and exciting journey if you know what to expect. With the right planning, the right mortgage, and help from new buyer schemes, your dream home is closer than you think.
For more helpful housing tips and guides, visit HousingMarketNews.co.uk.
