Buying a luxury new build property is gaining popularity for numerous compelling reasons.
Posted: December 15, 2022
At David Burr, we always have an exciting and varied number of listings for new homes and developments in Suffolk. However, if this is your first time buying a new home, it can feel like a daunting change. So, what are these compelling reasons why choosing a new build property makes sense?
1. Varied and interesting properties
Many buyers, particularly those with higher budgets, are drawn to older properties for their distinctive characteristics. However, the preconceived idea of a new build being a characterless box is becoming increasingly redundant. Instead, architects and designers are creating remarkable, unique and interesting new build properties which deliver the property characteristics you want without the traditional considerations that come with responsibility of period properties.
2. Energy efficiency and green credentials
When buying a property, especially since the Energy Crisis, you should consider energy bills and whether renovations, such as loft insulation, will be required to improve energy efficiency. This is particularly true when you choose a large, detached property that will inevitably generate higher bills.
Particular building regulations apply to new builds in respect of energy efficiency, making new homes significantly more energy efficient than most other properties. Most new build properties receive an A or B energy performance certificate (EPC). As a result, energy bills will be lower, energy-efficient renovations less likely to be required, and you will have a greener property overall.
3. Less maintenance
Obviously, new builds are new. From the driveway and the garden wall to the windows and the kitchen, it’s all new. As such, you can expect less maintenance, renovation and replacement. This benefits you in terms of cost, disruption and hassle.
4. Individual design
Depending on when you become interested in buying a particular new build, you may have a say in the design and finish. For example, you might be able to choose the kitchen design, driveway paving, bathroom tiles, carpets and more. In some cases, you can give input on interior configuration.
5. Your blank canvas
A notable benefit when you choose a new build property is being able to move in and create your own home, as developers typically choose neutral decor, even if you weren’t involved at the design stage. You aren’t pressured by time to undo the previous owners’ style to make your mark.
6. Safety
As with energy efficiency, particular building regulations apply to new build properties that often didn’t exist for constructing older properties. As such, you gain peace of mind by choosing a property with higher safety considerations in design. For example, with a new build, you can expect that the materials used are fire-resistant and smoke alarms fitted as standard.
7. Simpler buying process
As a trusted estate agency, we understand the angst and stress that buying a property can bring. We endeavour to remove as much as this as possible from you but if you are dealing with a seller involved in a chain it can, and does, provide further variables to the process. However, it can be more straightforward when you buy a new build property. Buying from a developer means dealing with someone knowledgeable, experienced, and keen to sell. You don’t have to wait for them to leave the property or organise their own purchase. Furthermore, many developers offer additional incentives to buyers, for example, contributing towards stamp duty.
8. Warranties
Buying your next property always carries risks. However, with a new build, you can mitigate some risks because they come with a warranty for a minimum of 10 years. In addition, you won’t need to organise an expensive structural survey; you can generally expect the developer to fix snags before the sale.
9. Modern living
How we live today has radically changed, even from 50 years ago. For example, even in just the last few years, we have seen new builds factor in working from home for at least two adults to a greater degree. Modern use informs the design of new build properties. Spaces are generally multi-functional and consider the lifestyle flows and needs of contemporary family living, whether that’s home offices, en suites, large garden patios or more parking and electrical charging points.
10. Luxury and technology
With higher-value new build properties, luxury is a consideration from the design stage. It’s normal to expect luxury features such as walk-in wardrobes and, for high-end properties, a gym/hobby room, or even a swimming pool. However, it isn’t always as easy to find these features in older properties.
Significantly, new build properties incorporate modern technology, with flexibility for how this continues to develop. For example, there could be electric vehicle chargers, underfloor heating, video security and entry, and smart tech for lights and heating.
