Find out more: our house-viewing checklist is mainly aimed at people buying older properties but includes some handy things to check in a new-build, too. These include the energy performance certificate (EPC) and gas and electrical safety certificates. But buying off plan means your new home is likely to be just a foundation or, at best, the framework of a house - so there's very little to see. Wondering if a new build property is for you? Check the price per square foot, and compare it with the resale market so you understand the extent of the premium you will be paying. 9. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. If your house extension will be built over or in the area of a sewer, you will need to contact your water board before work begins. Typically, this would be 3-4% for producing a design up to receiving planning permission, 6-8% to include Building Regulations and construction drawings and 12-15% if you were to opt When looking at any new development, even by well known, established build companies, always ask for evidence of other work they have completed. ’ With this in mind, we have come up with eight must ask questions to ask when buying a new build house. Keep in mind that any house can be renovated but it can’t be moved. I have passed affordability checks and will be going to view a property that is on the shared ownership resale market. Questions to ask when buying a new build house There are plenty of advantages to buying a new build house and thousands of new build properties are built and sold across the UK each year. Here's what to check. Are the houses traditionally built (brick and blockwork) or timber frame construction? So, if your new build home is delayed, you might have to reapply for a mortgage. 5. Show homes: tricks to watch out for. provide buyers with great peace of mind. Can I have copies of the property plans, drawings, specifications and paperwork? Why is the seller moving? One of our experts’ favourite questions to ask your estate agent is 'Would you be happy to live here?' ’ and ‘ what is the estate like? Find out from the home builder how many units have been sold and ask who has purchased them. Restrictive covenants are often used by home builders on large developments to prevent homeowners from changing the appearance of their property so everything remains 'uniform'. If you have no idea who to first approach, this builder reviews resource for contractors all over the country is a good starting point. But new home developments do come with worries and concerns just like buying a traditional property, so making sure you know everything about what you're buying is crucial. This can have the potential for disputes with neighbours! Comment document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "aecce838af0789219b7e985e6fb0a5d4" );document.getElementById("b114a1fee1").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); 10 Bridge Mews, 18. They’re also offering help-to-buy incentives for those aged under 40. Ask for a list of everything the property includes. Finding out exactly what you get in writing before signing away on a sales contract is hugely important to avoid confrontation further down the line. We usually ask for 4 or 5 payments throughout the project only representing an amount less or equal to than the value of works that are complete at that stage. Is the property leasehold or freehold? Bear the following in mind: 15. Who is the site manager and have they won any awards such as the ‘NHBC Pride in the Job Award’? Ease yourself into the process with our list of important questions you should be asking to get the most out of your viewing experience. Not only do you move into a property that is brand new, with no work to do, most come with a warranty that covers any defects or issues within a certain period of time. 4. The questions above should give you a good picture of which ones might be able to do a good job in building your dream home. A new build is a property that’s just reached completion, is about to start or is part-way through the building process. Before you make a decision on your dream home, make sure you ask these key questions so that you get the right home for you . What are your customer care procedures? Top 10 most important questions you must ask when buying a flat We've put together our top 10 questions to ask when buying a flat, to help you avoid any mistakes and save you money. Be aware that most builders will have a time frame for you to exchange contracts. But by doing all the necessary checks when viewing a property, potential buyers can confidently decide to put in an offer and avoid splashing extra cash on unexpected repairs. 1. Buying a new home is a big decision and you shouldn’t feel pressurised into rushing into a contract with a builder until you are completely satisfied that you have found the property that best suits you. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Developer Enzo's Homes now wants to sell the land where it was planning to build a new … Even better, use our checklist. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. 8 key checks make on a property viewing. You'll want to be sure they have a good reputation before you commit to an off plan home. Ask to see, or ask for a copy of the conveyance plan. 5 questions to ask when buying a new build home Buying a new home is an exciting and busy time, so making sure you understand the entire process is important. We value your custom and wish all our customers the best during these worrying times, please stay safe. Duty - which could result in a huge saving for you as a buyer. I have absolutely no idea and my parents have never bought a house so ain't much use either. To make sure you have all the relevant information and knowledge to hand, there are a number of things you should research and key questions you should raise when viewing a property. Here are 11 questions to ask. Also, ask the sales advisor for a copy of the Consumer Code for House Builders (read it thoroughly). Floor areas. But wait just a moment, it’s only after you’ve moved in that you may realise things aren’t quite what they seem and start to wish you’d asked more questions. 1. Are there problems that other people have realised that you haven’t? Or perhaps you were thinking of installing CCTV or a satellite dish to your property? That can cause problems with mortgage companies, whose offers are usually only valid for a maximum of six months. The builder will normally give you a time frame within a 2-month window. 27. This will give you an insight into how long the build should take. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. What to ask? Carry on browsing if you're happy with this, or find out how to manage cookies. 2. But by doing all the necessary checks when viewing a property, potential buyers can confidently decide to put in an offer and avoid splashing extra cash on unexpected repairs. 21. Viewing new build homes. Is the surface water drainage connected to the mains? 26. With all of that in mind, speak to the home builder and ask for a long stop completion date to be inserted in your sale contract. Like with any home search, though, remembering all the questions you should ask a developer is easier said than done. How long have the owners lived there? By Liam Fahy. Is there Radon Gas on-site, if yes what precautions have been taken? Are the buyers families or have property investors snapped up most of the development, meaning many homes will be rented out? Questions to ask when viewing a house for sale. Here we have created a checklist for you to follow, including an ultimate house viewing infographic. 1. This might seem like an obvious answer - you're getting a brand, spanking new home to live in! Building a House Extension On or Near a Sewer. Questions to ask when buying a house. These cookies do not store any personal information. This will give you … This could mean that the extension you were thinking of for your new build further down the line won't be possible. Anyways, this will be my first house viewing and I was just wondering if you had any tips on questions to ask when viewing it? We use cookies to provide you with a better service. This might seem like an obvious answer - you're getting a brand, spanking new home to live in! Some developers will pay things like Stamp 7. Ingleton 22. Are there any environmental issues in the area? Look at site layouts and specifically ask about bin collection points (BCP). Well, it's no different with new builds. Talk to the estate agent. Home » Build » 15 Questions to Ask When Selecting a Home Builder 15 Questions to Ask When Selecting a Home Builder When planning a new home, people often are wrapped up in the exciting decisions, such as which floorplan suits their needs or what cabinet finishes they prefer. Asking as many questions as possible is important to avoid any surprises or extra costs that may arise when buying a new build property. We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. And if your circumstances have changed, for instance if you have a new job, that could affect your borrowing ability or even your ability to get a mortgage at all. 2. 16. North Yorkshire 17. But while a quick exchange is always nice for both the seller and buyer, when it comes to buying a new build home, and the money involved, you should always use your own solicitor who will put your interests first. What do I get with my new build? Check all drawings and specifications that the sales advisor shows you and ask for copies of any that you are asked to sign to say you agree to them. What is a new build? If the letting agent doesn't have them to hand at the viewing, they should be able to follow up with an email providing them, and provide them before the tenancy starts. Find out if any restrictive covenants are in If things are moving slowly, try to establish why. Asked on 24 February 2021. Are there any public open spaces in or near the development? (Can you see it, smell it, or is there a smell of fresh paint that could be a trick to cover up damp?) Is there enough storage space for you? I have absolutely no idea and my parents have never bought a house so ain't much use either. What’s the parking situation? What choices are available in terms of home decor; such as kitchens, bathrooms and flooring and are upgrades available? Here are 11 questions to ask. Home » Build » 15 Questions to Ask When Selecting a Home Builder 15 Questions to Ask When Selecting a Home Builder When planning a new home, people often are wrapped up in the exciting decisions, such as which floorplan suits their needs or what cabinet finishes they prefer. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. 1. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. When viewing a show home, keeping an eye out for optical illusions might not be top of your list - but it should be. 10 Essential Steps to Building a Pretty Good House. Most builders have a part exchange policy if you have a property already that you would like to sell. If you're interested in buying a new build property, your first step is often to view a show home. Property is on market for £150,000, they will take offers but how low do we go? If the house has been on the market for six months or more, ask the agent why, thinking about asking price, location or possible structural problems. How many offers have they had? If the house has been on the market a long time (more than three months), ask the agent why they think it isn’t selling. To try and help, we’ve put together some questions to ask when viewing a house. If you have any questions or wish to make a booking, please contact me on 07792 261820 or email @ ian@livelyprofessionalservices.co.uk. Then, 12 months after you move in, news filters through that your house builder is extending the development you live on and your stunning view will soon be of someone else's house. terms of over-looking or light, the additional cars could soak up off-street parking or cause jams at peak times. 8. A new build home is a blank canvas and many of the issues affecting older homes won’t apply, but there are still key questions you should ask your housebuilder before you sign on the dotted line. Take a look at our blog The Advantages and Disadvantages of New Build Properties. If you were buying an established property, you'd want to know who your neighbours were, right? Ask what happens with your warranty if you get a private workman in to fix something, and how long the warranty lasts for, as well as what it covers. These covenants usually stay with the property, too, so can impact on your ability to sell when you come to. What’s the area like? Your email address will not be published. To help, we have compiled a list of important questions to ask your builder when considering buying a new build property: 1. We know what it’s like, once you’ve spotted your ideal flat or house you love and can afford, it’s easy to get carried away in excitement when you’re viewing it. Check the conveyancing plan to see exactly what areas you will be buying. Buying a home in the UK that’s newly built can be an appealing option. So it’s good to understand if the home you are after has had a lot of interest. What are the schools like? What is the cost of the new build property and are there any discounts available? Compare the new build home you are looking at with similar “old” properties in terms of value, space and rental value in the local area. Some things to ask include: How long has the property been up for sale? Negotiate with the developers. More information. You consent to our cookies if you continue to use this website Read our Privacy Policy, Ian Lively - Housing & Snagging Survey Expert, The Advantages and Disadvantages of New Build Properties, How Professional Snaggers are operating during lockdown, What Is and Isn’t a Snag in New Build Homes. Health and safety remains our main priority, and we continue to follow a number of strict measures to protect our customers and staff. What schools, doctors, dentists and hospitals are in the area? These early meetings are your chance to ask all of the questions you might have regarding costs, labor, and other essentials that you need to know about before jumping in. When will the access roads be completed and when will the final surfacing be carried out? How to Get the Best Possible New Tract Home. 3. If you spot any homeowners while there, ask politely for their experiences with the home builder. Is it … Timber frame constructions are usually erected much more quickly. Looking to the near future when we will most likely be driving electric cars, it seems like a good idea to construct a car port that will be able to carry solar panels on in the future. But some home builders and developers try to pressure buyers into using their recommended solicitor or conveyancer when buying a new build home. 3. Unlike the seller, the estate agent is legally obliged to tell you if they know of any serious problems with the property. 7. It’s no surprise that new build homes get snapped up very quickly due to their desirability. 8 key checks make on a property viewing. They’re used to answering questions from thorough customers, and indeed should welcome them as a chance to display their suitability for your project. Yes, it's new. Get the best deal when viewing a house: 41 things to check. NOTE: Comments are moderated. Leasehold flats often come with rules and regulations from the freeholder when it comes to things like major alterations or keeping pets - often due to the fact other people reside in the building, too. In line with latest Government’s guidelines on home moving, the housing market remains open, and all our offices in England, Scotland and Wales continue to operate. But that doesn't mean that you should always pay the full price any more than you would for a traditional home. 11 min Read Published: ... Also the website Nextdoor.co.uk can give you an insight into the neighbourhood you are thinking of moving to. Are the houses traditionally built (brick and blockwork) or timber frame construction? Find out from the developer how sales are going, as we mentioned above. 1. Houses sold as leasehold properties have caused something of a furore in the housing market in recent years, due to house Is there a management company and what are their fees? In a real estate deal that doesn’t involve a new build purchase agreement, you can back out or renegotiate if, for instance, the house appraises for less than the sale price, or if the home inspection discovers significant problems. 2. Is the site on mains drainage, is there a pumping station and who maintains it? Unless you're buying a new-build home, you're unlikely to find a property in pristine condition. I have passed affordability checks and will be going to view a property that is on the shared ownership resale market. The builder will normally give you a time frame within a 2-month window. The government has said it will ban leasehold new build houses being sold in the future, but in the meantime, establishing the terms behind what you are buying, for both flats and houses, is vital. Has there been a lot of interest? National House Building Council (NHBC) warranties are applied to more than 80% of new homes built in the UK and In the case of flats, does your purchase include a parking space? LA6 3JW. But there are also common problems many home buyers aren't aware of. A restrictive covenant could mean this is not allowed. The appeal of new builds includes: by Ian Lively - Housing & Snagging Survey Expert | Nov 25, 2019 | Buying a New Build Property | 0 comments. 6. Related Articles. Buying a property on a new build development is hugely appealing to many buyers. builders charging huge, rising fees for things like ground rent and the restrictions mentioned above applying to these properties. Required fields are marked *. Do you take part exchange on an existing property? Are there any organisations that offer support with the costs, such as help to buy schemes? It's amazing how many buyers assume the asking price is the only price they can pay for a new build home. 2. Many new homebuyers find out that an area adjacent to their home or worse, part of their property is allocated as a BCP. If you're still keen to buy, try making an offer or asking for some additional extras if paying the asking price. What questions to ask when viewing a house. “You should always bring in a property surveyor (or snagging inspector for new build properties) who can do a much more in-depth viewing of the property and will be … These aren’t properties which have been renovated or refurbished. 9. There are help to buy and shared ownership schemes aimed at first time buyers, such as: https://www.helptobuy.gov.uk/, Your email address will not be published. House hunting shouldn't be a struggle and with Compare My Move's ultimate house viewing checklist, you'll be ready to explore your dream home in no time. Before you make a decision on your dream home, make sure you ask these key questions so that you get the right home for you. What white goods are included and will the garden be landscaped? As you're looking round, ask the sales representatives as many questions as you can about the home, the development and the local area. Is it freehold or leasehold? Ask the estate agent why the seller is moving and how quickly properties sell in the area for potential resale later. Make sure you do some independent research as well. 2. Buying a home can be a daunting experience and knowing the right questions to ask can be confusing. Even better, use our checklist. Is there any evidence of damp? 30. When buying a new build home, it is important to ask as many questions as possible. Find out exactly who you would talk to (a name and contact details) if there are issues with your new build property, and what the channel is to register a snagging list upon moving in. Try to find out what the warranty on your new home includes and ensure that the 'snagging' list - things like doors not closing properly or sticking on the carpet - can be remedied directly with the property's developer. Can I arrange a snagging survey before completion to make a list of any property defects? When do you expect the property to be completed? Not only could this affect your property in If you're buying a new build flat or apartment, it will almost certainly be a leasehold property - meaning you have a lease from the freeholder to use the property for a certain amount of time. Keep answers organised by jotting them down on the back of the property listing details, or popping them into your phone. As a professional builder we NEVER ask for payment up front, we usually agree a schedule of payments prior to the building works commencing. It pays to be prepared for rental property viewings, so arrive at each one armed with a uniform list of questions to ask the letting agent or landlord. ‘This will typically be a percentage of the house price, starting from 5% with the Help to Buy Scheme, which is only available for first-time buyers who wish to purchase a new build. Are there any tree protection zones with tree preservation orders? For any customers already booked for a snagging survey I will be contacting you to discuss rearranging your appointment. Most warranties like this apply to the first 10 years after the home is purchased, but it's worth being aware that NHBC and other warranties are essentially insurance policies - meaning you have to make a claim and a payout is not always guaranteed. It's important that buyers can make an informed … If the property you’re viewing is a serious contender, talk to the estate agent to find out more about the property and why it's being sold. 19. Unless you're buying a new-build home, you're unlikely to find a property in pristine condition. Following the Government Guidelines, we are now happy to accept bookings on occupied properties as well as those empty.We will maintain a safe distance when conducting our inspections and wear suitable PPE where possible. Admittedly, this is a question you want to ask early in the process — and before you sign anything. ‘This will typically be a percentage of the house price, starting from 5% with the Help to Buy Scheme, which is only available for first-time buyers who wish to purchase a new build. Here's what to check. 24. “The location of sewers needs to be carefully considered,” Jonathan Durndell of Milton Keynes Architectural explains. Developers think solely from a commercial standpoint and like to exchange contracts quickly, hence often having their own panel of solicitors. Our advice would be to use your own solicitor to represent your interests. 20. If the latter ask how much the ground rent and management charges will be and the length of the lease. 1 Answers. What is normal to offer, what questions to ask? Don't leap into the unknown and get stuck with a very costly purchase! place before committing to buying your new build home. If a detached garage is included with the plot does it have power? The sales advisor will usually have a dealing margin within which they can negotiate. 4. Are there any covenants (rules on what can and cannot be done on the land) on the new build development? This means if your property is not ready by a certain date, you are entitled to compensation. New build homes are a great option whether you're a first time buyer, have a growing family or "right sizing" in later years. With this in mind, they may suggest that you use their solicitor. Be sure exactly what land areas you are buying and the implications. As your solicitor should be acting in your best interests when purchasing any kind of property, be wary of developers who pressure buyers into using their own recommended legal firms. How long have you been operating? To help you make the most of your next house viewing, we’ve put together a list of ten questions to ask your agent, developer or seller. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. To help, we have compiled a list of important questions to ask your builder when considering buying a new build property: 1. Anyways, this will be my first house viewing and I was just wondering if you had any tips on questions to ask when viewing it? Air Barriers, Vapor Barriers, and Drainage Planes Do Different Jobs . When buying a new build house or apartment, there is no seller, or neighbour, to ask questions of, such as ‘ when is bin day? But buying off plan means your new home is likely to be just a foundation or, at best, the framework of a house - so there's very little to see. 10. Keep answers organised by jotting them down on the back of the property listing details, or popping them into your phone. When you view a house, always go prepared with a list of questions to ask. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. We are looking to install a carport to provide additional covered parking at our property. 1. Picture the scene: You're gazing out across acres of glorious green space standing in what will soon be your new south-facing garden. Why are the current owners moving? 11. Who are the energy suppliers to the property (gas, water, electricity and broadband etc)? The market moves fast and you want to be sure you secure it. How long have the owners lived there? How many allocated parking spaces does the plot have and will there be shared driveways? 28. Who is the warranty provider and what do they cover(defects, structural defects, drainage etc)?. Find out what you will be paying in maintenance and ground rent, and whether it rises every few years, and go through the terms of the lease to make sure you are happy with everything before committing. At the viewing, ask to view a copy of the property's certificates. Here’s what to consider when buying a new build house. This is usually between 90 and 999 years on new build properties. Are the walls structurally sound? 1. Ask for the floor areas of the properties you are interested in. How much interest has there been in this plot/development? Is the reservation fee included in the cost of the property? Viewing new build house tomorrow, first time buyer. When do you expect the property to be completed? The UK government pledged to build 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s. Are there any rights of way, footpaths or bridleways? What’s the crime rate like? We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Write your questions down before you go in so that you can be sure not to forget anything important, and don’t be shy about getting the answers that you need. Questions to ask housebuilders before moving into a new build property Buying a property is often the most expensive purchase you’ll ever make. Ask for a … You might assume the obvious answer to this is 'yes, of course'. 13. However, with more complex homes, fees will be based on a percentage of the final build cost. Buying a new-build home in the UK. Make sure you ask your developer if there are plans to build more homes in further phases. If you're buying off plan, there's always a chance that your property might not be built as quickly as you hoped. It pays to be prepared for rental property viewings, so arrive at each one armed with a uniform list of questions to ask the letting agent or landlord.