A home is the biggest purchase you’ll ever make, so it pays to understand as much as you can before you agree to buy one. And buying a new-build home is different to older properties, which is why you need to get the right information from the developers early on. If you’re looking to buy new, make sure you ask these questions when viewing a new-build home…
What will be included with my new home?
When it comes to buying a new-build, never assume what extras your property will come with. Always ask the developer the question. Even more so if you’re buying off plan and it’s not known exactly what your property will look like at the end. For example, you might want to ask about the garden and whether it will be landscaped or if it will have any storage facilities? You can always ask for a list of items which will be included with your home, too. This could include carpets and white goods. Knowing early on helps to clear up any potential misunderstandings further down the line. It can also help you when it comes to budgeting for furnishings and other household items.
And remember, when you view a new-build home, you’ll likely be shown around a show home on the development site. This will be designed and furnished to the highest specification, so don’t assume what you see is what you’ll get.
Does my home come with a warranty and what does it cover?
All new-build homes come with a warranty to provide reassurance that in the case of any faults, defects, or issues arising with your home, they will be fixed. Ask your developer what kind of warranty they provide, how long the cover is for, and exactly what is and isn’t covered. The National House-Building Council (NHBC) warranty is the most popular, but you might also hear of the Local Authority Building Control Warranty (LABC), and Premier Guarantee.
A typical warranty lasts around 10 years, with the first two of the years covering the builder’s work. You might hear this be referred to as the ‘defects insurance’ period. Thereafter, the remaining time is the ‘structural’ period.
Warranties usually won’t cover any weather damage, natural wear and tear, or problems caused by inadequate property maintenance after moving in, but get confirmation from the developer about what their warranty will and won’t cover.
Are there any restrictive covenants on the property?
With many new-build homes being built on large developments, restrictive covenants are often put in place by the developers. They are used to ensure homebuyers don’t change the look of the property to the degree it will look out of place on the development. You should ask whether there are any restrictive covenants on the property you are interested in as it might affect your plans. For example, you might not be able to extend the property to the degree you hoped, or you might need to get special permission for satellite TV dishes or other items. If you get confirmation as soon as possible from the developer, it can and will avoid any disappointment.
How long will it take to build the property?
If you are viewing the show home of a new-build property on a development which is still being built, then it is a good idea to ask how long the work is expected to take. You should also ask about the long stop completion date – this is the absolute latest date upon which it is agreed the property will be completed by. You might be asked by the mortgage company for such a date as the long stop date is usually used as the date of the expiry of your mortgage offer.
Can I get help with the costs of buying this particular new home?
It might be something you researched before you started viewing properties, but if it isn’t and you are unsure, then ask the developer whether there is any financial help available when buying the property. Buying a new home is extremely expensive and a little bit of help could make a significant difference. From Stamp Duty to deposits, you might also discover the home qualifies for Help to Buy. Or if you are selling another property, can you take advantage of any part exchange scheme? Check what offers your developer has able or can recommend.
Can I use my own legal advisors?
When you are buying a new-build home, you might be encouraged to use your developer’s solicitors for the conveyancing. This is often recommended for ease and to complete the sale as quickly as possible, but it could come at an extra cost. If you want to use your own conveyancers, you can, just make sure they are well-equipped to deal with a new-build home purchase.
How many other properties have sold on this development?
Just because it’s a new development, it doesn’t mean you can’t get a feel for your new community. Don’t be afraid to ask the developer about other properties which have sold on the site. Has the development proved to be very popular? What are the general concerns about the development, if any? Who will your neighbours be – are they mostly young professionals, families, or property investors? This is a big purchase, so find out as much as you can about who will be living in your community.
What other new homes have you built?
If when you are viewing the show home, the development is still in the early stages, then ask the developer about other homes they have built either recently, or locally. Find out where they are so that you can visit them and see for yourself the quality of the building.
We know buying a new-build home is a big investment, which is why it pays to shop around for the perfect home for you. Here at New Homes Place we list properties on new developments from housebuilders large and small across the country, all in one place. Start your new home search with us here.
