How to Buy a New Build Home: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Buying a new build home is an exciting step, whether you’re a first-time buyer or ready to move into your next home. With stylish modern layouts, energy-efficient features, and minimal maintenance, it’s easy to see why new build homes are so popular. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to buying a new build home, giving you clarity, confidence, and peace of mind from start to finish.

Step 1: Decide If a New Build Is Right for You

A new build home is a property that has never been lived in before. This includes homes that are newly completed or purchased off-plan as part of a new residential development.

New build homes come with a range of benefits, especially for today’s buyers:

• Energy-efficient design and lower running costs
• Modern layouts designed for today’s lifestyles
• Minimal maintenance and brand-new fixtures
• A 10-year new home warranty
• No onward chain, helping reduce delays

However, availability and timelines can differ from older properties, so it’s important to weigh up your priorities.

Step 2: Set Your Budget and Mortgage Options

Before reserving your new home, it’s important to understand your budget clearly. This includes your deposit, legal fees, and any moving costs, so there are no surprises later on.

Many buyers benefit from speaking to an independent mortgage advisor, particularly as new build mortgage options and buying schemes may be available for first-time buyers and movers.

Our experienced sales team are on hand to guide you through every step of the buying process. From explaining the costs involved to talking through available buying incentives, they’re there to answer your questions and make things feel simple and stress-free.

Step 3: Choose the Right Location and Development

Location plays a huge role in both your day-to-day lifestyle and the long-term value of your home. Consider:

• Transport links and commuting options
• Local amenities, schools, and green spaces
• The future potential of the area

Visiting one of our show homes can help you visualise the space and compare house types.

We have new homes in Cambridge, London, and Essex designed to suit a variety of lifestyles. Visiting our show homes can help you visualise the space, compare house types, and find the perfect fit.

Explore our developments near you today and discover your ideal new home.

Step 4: Reserve Your New Build Home

Once you’ve found a home you love, you’ll usually pay a reservation fee to secure it. This removes the home from the market for a set period, allowing time to progress your mortgage and legal work. 

Our expert team will be with you every step of the way, offering guidance and support to make the reservation process straightforward and stress-free.

Step 5: Legal Work and Mortgage Application

Instruct a solicitor experienced in new build purchases. They’ll review contracts, plans, and warranties while your mortgage application is finalised.

Meanwhile, our team is on hand to answer any questions, coordinate with your solicitor, and ensure you fully understand each part of the process.

Step 6: Exchange, Completion, and Moving In

When contracts are exchanged, the purchase becomes legally binding and a completion date is agreed. Once the home is finished and funds are released, you’ll receive the keys and can move in.

Before or shortly after completion, a snagging inspection helps identify minor issues for the developer to resolve.

Is Buying a New Build Home Right for You?

Buying a new build home can be a smooth, stress-free, and rewarding experience, particularly for first-time buyers. With modern design, energy efficiency, and fewer chains, it’s an attractive option for many buyers.

For a more detailed walkthrough of the process, speak to a member of our team at a development near you.