Buying a house is one of the most exciting journeys, especially if it’s your first home. New builds are a popular choice for first-time buyers, key workers, and families looking to climb the property ladder. These homes are fresh, modern, and energy-efficient, ticking many boxes right from the start. But what exactly should you look for when viewing a new build? Here’s a handy house viewing checklist to help you make the most of your property viewing.
Do Your Homework
Before you view a property, make sure you’re eligible for any schemes that might help with costs. Some developers offer incentives for key workers or first-time buyers. Check the eligibility criteria for schemes like Help to Buy or Shared Ownership before heading to the viewing.
Also, research the homes for sale in your chosen area and compare their prices. developers can guide you, but a little independent research never hurts.
What to Look For
When you arrive at the property, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of imagining yourself living there. But remember, you’re here to check the details.
- Water Pressure: Turn on taps and showers to ensure the water pressure is adequate. Low pressure can be frustrating and expensive to fix.
- Hot Water: Ask how the water heating system works. Is it energy-efficient, and does it provide enough hot water for the whole family?
- Broadband Speeds: With so much of our lives online, fast and reliable broadband is a must. Ask about the speeds in the area to avoid future headaches.
- Storage Space: Does the house have enough storage? Open cupboards and wardrobes to see if they’ll fit your belongings. It’s surprising how quickly space fills up!
- Energy Efficiency: Most new builds are designed with energy efficiency in mind, but double-check. Ask about insulation, windows, and the energy rating of the property.
Think About the Practicalities
New build homes are often set in fresh developments, which means the surrounding area is still evolving. When buying a house, consider how practical the location is for you.
- Council Tax Band: Check the council tax band of the property, as this will affect your monthly outgoings.
- Service Charge: Some new builds come with a service charge for communal areas. Find out how much it is and what it covers.
- Bedroom Homes: Make sure the number of bedrooms suits your needs, whether it’s for a growing family or a home office.
Compare New Builds to Older Homes
When you view a new build, it’s worth comparing the pros and cons to older homes. New builds often require less maintenance and come with modern features like smart technology and better insulation. However, older homes might offer more space or character.
Consider what matters most to you. Are you willing to trade a little extra room for lower energy bills and modern convenience?
Bring Your Own Property Viewing Checklist
Having a personal property viewing checklist ensures you don’t miss anything. Here are some key points to include:
- Check all doors and windows open and close properly.
- Look for any signs of unfinished work or defects.
- Test all appliances if they’re included in the sale.
- Ask about the warranty for the property—it’s standard for new builds to come with a 10-year warranty.
- Confirm the estimated completion date if the house isn’t fully built yet.
Plan for the Future
Buying a home is a long-term investment, so think ahead. Are there schools, parks, or transport links nearby? Does the area have a strong community feel?
If this is your first home, consider how easy it will be to sell in the future. New builds are often appealing to buyers, but you’ll want to make sure your home is part of a desirable area.
Ask Questions
We are there to help, so don’t be shy about asking questions. Whether it’s about the broadband speeds, service charge, or how to reserve the property, they’ll have the answers.
If anything feels unclear or rushed, take your time to think it over. It’s a big decision, and you deserve to feel confident about it.
A house viewing is your chance to get to know the property inside and out. By knowing what to look for—from water pressure to storage space—you’ll be better prepared to make the right decision.
New builds are fantastic options for first-time buyers and families alike, offering modern living spaces, energy efficiency, and a blank canvas to make your own. Use this guide as your go-to property viewing checklist, and you’ll be one step closer to finding your dream home.
Good luck with your house viewing! Whether you’re ready to buy a property or just exploring your options, taking the time to view carefully will always pay off. The perfect new build might just be waiting for you.