If you’re the kind of person that likes to know exactly what they’re getting with a purchase and don’t want any unfortunate surprises to pop up and take them by surprise, you’re probably the kind of person that would appreciate the benefits of buying a new build home.

If you’ve ever taken a drive around an area where there are new homes for sale, you’ll notice it’s always clean, comfortable and inviting, often with lots of close amenities. But if you’re in the market for a new build home, what should you be looking for? Let’s start with the basics.

What are new build housing developments?

Often built on undeveloped or reclaimed land, new build housing developments are often manufactured by property developers who purchase large plots of land and design and build properties on them with the aim of selling them to homebuyers. They are typically marketed as modern, energy-efficient homes offering contemporary living spaces with the latest amenities and technologies.

These developments can be found in a variety of locations, from suburban areas to urban centres, and can cater to many different budgets and lifestyles, though are often perceived as being quite middle-class. The popularity of new build housing developments has increased in recent years, as they offer a fresh start for homebuyers looking for a hassle-free move and the opportunity to purchase a home with a warranty and fewer maintenance issues.

Tips for buying a new build

Researching developments – Spend some time researching current development plans and areas where new homes are being built. Is there one in an area you want to move to and does it fall within your price range? Research the area and see if you’d want to live there and what’s around in the area as far as local schools and shops are concerned.

Researching the developers – Research the company developing the housing project, investigate reviews of past developments and see how long they usually take to come to fruition. A simple Google search of their name should turn up dozens of results but don’t be afraid to contact them directly too, or visit their local office to learn more.

Picking your plot – Researching the housing developments early can give you earlier access when it comes to picking the plot you want. With many of the new build homes being similar in terms of size and decor, location can be incredibly important. Maybe you want a house in a quiet cul-de-sac? Or maybe you want one that’s within walking distance of the local pub? Get in quick and you’ll have a better chance of claiming the location that makes most sense for you.

Building process and completion – Once you’ve chosen a plot and purchased a home, you’ll want to keep up to date with the construction so you know when you will be able to move in. This will be particularly relevant if you have a deadline set to move out of your home.