29 May 2019
There will always be pros and cons when comparing different types of home prior to purchase; whether you’re considering a period property or a new build.
An older property can be more appealing on the surface due to its history and arguably unique personality. However, a brand-new home that requires little decoration and low maintenance can be equally, if not more, attractive.
In this article, we focus on new builds and look at some of the advantages that would take a lot more time, effort, and investment to achieve if you chose a period property.
1. Energy efficiency
Energy bills are likely to be lower than in an older building which are commonly drafty and less efficient due to open chimneys, single-glazed windows, wooden floors and less insulation in the walls and attics.
Today’s building regulations ensure improved efficiency with greater levels of insulation as well as the protection offered by double or triple-glazed windows, insulated UVPC doors, walls and roofs.
Plus, it’s much easier to add in technology at the construction stage than it being retrofitted onto an existing building.
At our residential development in Ancaster, each home includes underfloor heating on the ground floor with all heating and hot water being provided via a Mitsubishi Electric air source heat pump – one of the most advanced, efficient renewable heating systems available, giving residents the bonus of lower fuel bills and reduced carbon emissions.
2. Design elements
When purchasing a new build property that is in the process of being built, purchasers who make early reservations have the option to design aspects of their property with a choice of floor coverings and interior finishes, including colour scheme, fixtures and fittings, allowing less time for decorating and more time for relaxing.
If purchasers like the idea of a modern interior in an old property, they must take renovation and decorating costs into consideration. It can be overwhelming for first-time buyers to put their own stamp on a property, with little time and funds to dedicate to improvements. A new build will make the process much easier – you can choose the style you like in terms of some fixtures and fittings with the support and knowledge of an experienced developer like Wheatcroft Land.
3. Appliances
Many new build homes now include fitted kitchens with appliances such as a washer/dryer, ceramic hob, oven, fridge freezer and a dishwasher. New homes are perfectly suited for first-time buyers who might not have the funds readily available to buy everyday luxury goods or afford to pay for the repairs in old homes. Most appliances in new build homes are modern, efficient and reliable and come with the manufacturer’s warranty.
4. Deals available
To help with the national property shortage, the government is aiming to build 300,000 new build properties a year by the mid 2020’s, meaning that more incentives to buy a new build are now available. Schemes include the Help to Buy: Equity Loan, Help to Buy ISA and Help to Buy: Shared Ownership. Help to Buy Equity Loans are available on properties at our Ancaster View and Swing Bridge Wharf developments.
Purchasing a new build home will also mean that it is a chain free property, saving a lot of time, hassle and stress later down the line. Without a seller to take into consideration, it’s more likely the sale will go through and on time.
New build properties also come with a new home warranty. This is a ten-year insurance policy that protects buyers from structural defects and faults in the build. LABC warranties are provided on both our Ancaster and Moira developments.
5. Security and safety
Today’s modern homes are built using the latest technology and materials to withstand the test of time.
Windows must open wide enough to allow someone to escape in the event of a fire. Newly built windows and doors with double glazing include secure locks to reduce the chance of someone breaking in.
With high level of security offered on new build homes from Wheatcroft Land, including UVPC doors, new locks and new windows, you can sleep well knowing you and your family are safe.
Wheatcroft Land homes are built to the highest standards, blending traditional design principles with contemporary themes to cater for modern living – whether you are a first-time buyer, a young family, upsizing or downsizing.
For more information about our developments in the East Midlands, contact us on 0116 2708554 or through our online contact form.