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What the Autumn Budget Means for First-Time Home Buyers in the UK

By George Martin Limited,

Yesterday, the UK Parliament released the 2024 Autumn Budget. This budget is important for first-time home buyers. It includes updates that may change how easy or hard it is to buy your first home. If you’re planning to apply for a mortgage, make an offer, or exchange contracts soon, here’s how the budget changes could impact you.

What First-Time Buyers Need to Know

The Autumn Budget 2024, presented by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), included changes that aim to help people buying a home for the first time. 

Some of these changes may lower your costs, while others could mean more expenses. Knowing what’s new can help you make the best decisions during your buying process.

Rising Fuel Duty and Its Impact on Home Buyers

This year’s budget includes a small rise in fuel duty, which might increase everyday costs like commuting and home energy bills. While fuel duty won’t directly affect your mortgage, it could make monthly expenses higher.

If you’re buying a home soon, it’s good to think about these extra costs when planning your budget.

Tax Changes and National Insurance Contributions

There are also new tax changes to consider. Small increases in national insurance contributions may mean a bit less in take-home pay.

Also, income tax will change in April 2025, which could impact your ability to save for a deposit or keep up with mortgage payments.

If you’re close to applying for a mortgage, try to look at your budget under these new tax rates.

Business Rates and Building Insurance

The budget has also raised business rates, which applies to shops and offices rather than homes. However, these rates can impact the area’s property values, so if businesses in your area are affected, house prices might shift over time. Building insurance, while not directly mentioned in the budget, is another essential cost for first-time buyers.

It’s wise to research building insurance policies early to keep this cost manageable.

Public Services, Mortgage Help, and Licensed Conveyancers

Extra funds are going to public services, which can make neighborhoods with strong services and amenities more attractive for buyers. 

Improved infrastructure and public services can increase property values in the long run.

The government might also provide more support options for mortgage applications, giving first-time buyers extra resources to find the right mortgage. And as always, a licensed conveyancer can make the buying process easier by handling legal paperwork, guiding you through exchange dates, and helping you with completion dates.

Moving Forward as a First-Time Buyer

Here are a few simple steps to keep in mind as you plan your home-buying journey:

  1. Review Your Budget: Make sure to include possible tax and insurance costs in your monthly budget.
  2. Stay Updated on Mortgage Offers: Check for new mortgage options, as lenders may offer better deals based on the budget changes.
  1. Consult with a Conveyancer: They can help with contracts, completion dates, and any legal questions.
  2. Research Local Markets: Knowing local trends in property prices and business rates can help you decide where to buy.
CategoriesResidential

Debunking Common Myths About New Build Homes

By George Martin Limited,

When it comes to buying a new build home, there’s a lot of noise out there. You’ve heard the whispers from well-meaning family members or that friendly chat with your local agent. “New build homes aren’t good quality,” they say, or “You’ll end up paying more in the long run.”

But guess what? These are just myths – fairy tales, if you will – that have been spun so many times, they might as well be myths and legends. So, let’s dive into the truth and start debunking some of the most common new build home myths.

New Build Homes Are More Expensive in the Long Run

One of the most persistent myths about new build homes is that they’ll cost you more over time than an older home. Now, let’s deconstruct that bit of fiction. Sure, the price of a new home might be higher at first. However, when you consider the overall savings, you will see that a new home is a better choice.

For starters, new build homes are typically far more energy efficient than their older counterparts. With better insulation, double glazing, and modern heating systems, new homes often come with higher EPC ratings, meaning you’ll spend less on energy bills. While an older home might charm you with its character, its inefficient construction could leave you paying more in the long term.

And let’s not forget about the ongoing costs of maintenance. An older home might need constant TLC – from roof repairs to plumbing issues. With a new build, you’re less likely to face these problems, and most developers, like us at George Martin LTD, offer warranties to give you peace of mind.

New Builds Aren’t Good Quality

This is a big one, isn’t it? People often think that new build homes are rushed, with shoddy workmanship. But here’s the truth – construction standards today are higher than ever. Developers are subject to stringent regulations and inspections, ensuring your new home is built to last.

Let’s face it – nobody wants to feel like their dream home got thrown together faster than a sandcastle in the rain. That’s why reputable developers like us make sure each brick, pipe, and tile is placed with precision. 

Estate Agent Fees Are the Same for New Builds as Older Homes

Here’s a pleasant surprise for you – when buying a new build home, you may not even need to deal with those pesky estate agent fees! Many developers sell directly, meaning you could avoid paying the fees that come with buying through an estate agent.

You can browse our homes for sale and buy directly from us without the middleman, making the process smoother and potentially more cost-effective.

It’s Hard to Find a Good New Build Home in the UK

The idea that new homes are hard to come by is simply not true. The UK housing market is bustling, and if you hop onto any website with homes for sale, you’ll see plenty of new builds to choose from. Whether you’re in Great Britain or Northern Ireland, there’s something out there for everyone.

So, why not start your journey today? With so many new homes to choose from, you’re bound to find your perfect match – just like in the fairy tales, but without the dragons and dungeons.

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CategoriesResidential

What is Interest Rate and What Will I Pay?

By George Martin Limited,

When you’re looking at new build homes, whether it’s your first time or you’re an experienced buyer, one term you’ll hear a lot is “interest rate.” But what exactly is an interest rate, and how does it impact what you pay each month?

What Are Interest Rates and How Do They Work?

In simple terms, an interest rate is the cost of borrowing money. When you take out a mortgage or any personal loan, you’re not just paying back the amount you borrowed (called the principal); you’re also paying interest, which is a percentage of the loan. The interest is essentially the fee lenders charge for lending you the money.

For example, if you’re buying a new home and take out a mortgage of £200,000, the interest rate on that loan determines how much extra you pay on top of the £200,000. Over time, that can add up, so even a small change in interest rates can make a big difference in your monthly repayments.

What Factors Impact Your Mortgage Payments?

Interest rates can vary depending on a few key factors. One big influencer is inflation, which refers to the general rise in prices for goods and services, often measured by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI). When inflation goes up, interest rates tend to follow, making borrowing money more expensive. This means if you’re applying for a mortgage during a time when consumer prices are on the rise, you might have to pay more in interest.

Your credit score and credit history also play a significant role. If you have a strong credit score, lenders are more likely to offer you a lower interest rate, as you’re seen as less risky. On the other hand, if your credit history isn’t great, you might find yourself facing higher interest payments.

Inflation and Interest Rates: What’s the Connection?

Inflation is closely watched by the Financial Conduct Authority and central banks. They use interest rates as a tool to control inflation. If inflation is rising too fast, interest rates may be increased to help slow it down by making borrowing more expensive. On the other hand, when inflation is low, interest rates might be cut to encourage spending and borrowing.

Since August 2024, inflation has been one of the primary concerns for both new home buyers and builders like George Martin. Prices rise for everything from materials to energy, which has a knock-on effect on house prices and the amount you’ll need to borrow. As a developer, we aim to build homes that are energy-efficient, which helps lower costs for you in the long run. However, understanding how inflation affects your mortgage can help you plan better.

Other Costs to Consider

Aside from interest rates and inflation, there are other costs that come with buying a new home. Stamp duty is one of them. Depending on the price of your home and whether you’re a first-time buyer, you may need to pay stamp duty, which is a tax on property purchases.

Then there’s the question of your loan term. If you choose a longer-term mortgage, your monthly payments will be lower, but you’ll pay more interest overall. Shorter-term loans mean higher monthly repayments but less interest paid over time.

When it comes to interest rates and mortgages, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much you’ll pay. It depends on a variety of factors, including your credit score, inflation, and even the energy efficiency of the home you’re buying. However, by understanding the basics of interest rates and how they work, you’ll be better prepared to make informed decisions.

At George Martin, we work to ensure that every home we build is not only beautiful but also designed with your financial well-being in mind. From energy-efficient builds to expert advice on navigating the financial aspects of home buying, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

CategoriesGuide Residential

Reducing shrinkage in your new home

By George Martin Limited,

Moving into a new home is an exciting time, but it can also come with a few unexpected challenges. One of the most common issues homeowners face, especially with new builds, is shrinkage.

Shrinkage refers to the small cracks that appear in walls and floors as your home settles. While shrinkage is a natural part of the process, it can lead to more significant problems if left unchecked. Here’s how you can reduce shrinkage in your new build and protect your investment in the long term.

What's the cause?

Shrinkage occurs as building materials like plaster, wood, and concrete dry out. This is especially common in newly built houses, where the materials are still relatively fresh. As they lose moisture, they shrink, which can result in cracks. Water plays a big role in this process, as excess moisture can lead to a variety of damp problems, including mould growth, condensation problems, and even black mould.

Understanding the causes is the first step to reducing shrinkage. Controlling the moisture in your home is essential for preventing damp issues that could escalate over time.

Damp and Shrinkage: A Troubling Duo

While shrinkage itself is a natural process, excessive damp or moisture can exacerbate the problem. Damp can come from a variety of sources, including ground water, poor ventilation, and condensation. In older homes, damp problems might already be present, but new builds can also experience them if preventative measures aren’t taken.

To keep shrinkage and damp under control, make sure your home has proper ventilation. Installing an extractor fan in key areas like kitchens and bathrooms can help. This will reduce the humidity levels and prevent condensation problems, which can cause damp or mould to develop.

How to Reduce Shrinkage in Your New Home

There are several strategies you can use to reduce shrinkage and its effects in your new home. Here are a few practical tips:

 

  1. Control Humidity: New build houses tend to have higher levels of moisture as they dry out. Using dehumidifiers can help speed up this process and reduce the chances of shrinkage. This is particularly important in areas like basements, where damp problems are more common.
  1. Ventilation is Key: Proper airflow is essential for preventing condensation problems. Keep your home well-ventilated, especially in rooms that tend to collect moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens. An extractor fan can help pull moisture out of the air and reduce damp issues.
  2. Address Damp Problems Early: If you notice signs of damp, such as mould growth, wet walls, or condensation on windows, take action immediately. Damp proofing your home and using moisture barriers can help prevent further damage. Keep an eye out for black mould, which can be harmful to your health and indicates a serious damp issue.
  3. Dry Clothes Outside: Drying clothes indoors can lead to an increase in humidity levels, contributing to damp and condensation problems. Whenever possible, dry clothes outside or use a tumble dryer that vents outside.
  4. Check for Water Leaks: Inspect your home for any potential leaks, especially in areas prone to damp, such as under sinks, near windows, or around the roof. Even a small leak can lead to significant moisture build-up and increase the risk of shrinkage.
  5. Regular Inspections: A new home will settle over time, and small cracks may appear as part of the shrinkage process. Regular inspections will help you identify any problem areas before they worsen. Keep an eye on walls and floors for any signs of shrinkage or damp.

The Bottom Line: Shrinkage and Loss Prevention

The retail industry often talks about “shrinkage” in terms of loss prevention. In homes, reducing shrinkage is also about loss prevention—but in this case, it’s about preventing the loss of structural integrity in your new build. By following these tips, you can help minimize shrinkage, reduce damp problems, and maintain the quality of your home.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving into a new build, keeping an eye on moisture levels is crucial. With proper damp proofing, regular ventilation, and attention to potential problem areas, you can enjoy your new home without the worry of shrinkage or damp issues.

For many first-time buyers, investing in a new home is a significant milestone. The last thing you want is to face expensive repairs down the line due to shrinkage or damp issues. These problems can not only affect the structural integrity of your home but can also lead to mould growth and other health risks. Taking the time to address these concerns early on can save you a lot of stress and money.

When looking at homes for sale, consider asking about the builder’s process for dealing with shrinkage and damp prevention. Understanding how the home was constructed and what measures have been taken to reduce moisture can give you peace of mind.

CategoriesGuide Residential

Beginners guide to: new build homes

By George Martin Limited,

Beginners guide to: New Build Homes

Embarking on the journey to buy a new build home can be both thrilling and daunting, especially for first-time buyers. With the rise of construction projects across the country, more people are leaning towards purchasing new build properties due to their modern amenities, energy efficiency, and the chance to personalize their space from the ground up.

This guide provides essential information and advice on finding the right new build home, booking viewings, and key considerations before making an offer.

Finding a New Build Home

The first step in buying a new build home is knowing where to look. Whether you’re searching for a local unit or exploring options through online shops, there are several ways to find a brand new home that suits your needs:

  • Explore Home Developers: Start by visiting the websites of reputable home developers in your area. They often list new build properties, upcoming construction sites, and planned move-in dates. This can give you an early insight into available options.
  • Local Citizens Advice: For tailored advice, visit your local Citizens Advice Bureau. They can provide guidance on local housing developments and any government buying schemes available, such as Help to Buy or Shared Ownership, that might suit your budget.
  • Use Property Portals: Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and local estate agents’ websites can be invaluable resources. Filter your search for ‘new builds’ or ‘new construction’ to find the latest listings.

How to Book Viewings

Before diving into the search for the best mortgage rates, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the types of mortgages available. For new-build homes, some popular options include:

  • Fixed-Rate Mortgages: These mortgages have an interest rate that remains constant throughout the term, providing stability and predictability in your monthly payments. This can be an attractive option if you prefer to budget without surprises.
  • Tracker Mortgages: Tracker mortgages follow the Bank of England’s base rate plus a set percentage. While they can offer lower rates initially, they fluctuate with the market, which means your payments could increase if interest rates rise.
  • Help to Buy Schemes: For new-build properties, schemes like Help to Buy can offer equity loans to help with the purchase, reducing the amount you need to borrow from a mortgage lender. Be sure to check the eligibility criteria and terms before applying.

Knowing which mortgage type suits your financial situation and preferences can help you narrow down your options and focus your search for the best rates.

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What to Look Out For

  • Quality of Construction: Inspect the quality of the construction and finishes. Look out for any signs of rushed work or substandard materials, as this can impact the long-term durability of your new home.
  • Energy Efficiency: New build homes are typically more energy-efficient than older homes, which can lead to lower energy bills. Check for features like double glazing, efficient heating systems, and insulation quality.
  • Warranty and Guarantees: Most new builds come with warranties, such as the NHBC 10-year guarantee. Ensure you understand what is covered and for how long, as this can save you from unexpected costs down the line.
  • Mortgage in Principle: Before making an offer, it’s advisable to secure a mortgage in principle. This shows developers that you are serious and financially prepared to proceed with the purchase. Consulting with a mortgage lender early in the process can streamline your buying journey.
  • Consider the Location and Community: Assess the location of the new build within the development. Proximity to amenities, green spaces, and transportation links can significantly impact your daily life and property value.
  • Costs Beyond the Purchase Price: Be aware of additional costs such as service charges, ground rent, or contributions to communal areas. These can add up and need to be factored into your budget.

Understanding the Buying Process

  • Set Your Move-In Date: Once your offer is accepted and contracts are exchanged, you’ll receive a more concrete move-in date. Be prepared for possible delays in construction, but keep in close communication with your developer.
  • Reserve Your Home: Once you find the right property, you’ll typically need to pay a reservation fee to secure it. This fee is usually deducted from the total price upon completion.
  • Solicitor and Legal Checks: Hire a solicitor who is experienced in new build transactions to handle the legal aspects, such as reviewing contracts, checking planning permissions, and ensuring all necessary searches are completed.
CategoriesResidential

How to get a good mortage rate

By George Martin Limited,

How to get a good mortage rate

Navigating the world of mortgages can be a daunting task, especially when you’re looking to purchase a new-build home. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the jargon and endless choices. But don’t worry—finding a good mortgage rate doesn’t have to be a complicated process. 

In this guide, we’ll explore some key considerations to keep in mind while you hunt for the best mortgage rates, specifically tailored to new-build homes.

Understand the Different Types of Mortgages Available

Before diving into the search for the best mortgage rates, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the types of mortgages available. For new-build homes, some popular options include:

  • Fixed-Rate Mortgages: These mortgages have an interest rate that remains constant throughout the term, providing stability and predictability in your monthly payments. This can be an attractive option if you prefer to budget without surprises.
  • Tracker Mortgages: Tracker mortgages follow the Bank of England’s base rate plus a set percentage. While they can offer lower rates initially, they fluctuate with the market, which means your payments could increase if interest rates rise.
  • Help to Buy Schemes: For new-build properties, schemes like Help to Buy can offer equity loans to help with the purchase, reducing the amount you need to borrow from a mortgage lender. Be sure to check the eligibility criteria and terms before applying.

Knowing which mortgage type suits your financial situation and preferences can help you narrow down your options and focus your search for the best rates.

Consider the Advantages of New-Build Homes

New-build homes come with their own set of advantages that can play a role in your mortgage decisions. For instance, many new-builds are more energy-efficient than older properties, which could result in lower utility bills. Additionally, new-build homes often come with warranties and are built to modern standards, reducing the need for costly repairs and maintenance.

These factors can make new-builds an appealing option, potentially influencing your choice of mortgage. Some lenders even offer special rates or incentives for buyers of new-build properties, so it’s worth exploring these options.

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Shop Around for Mortgage Deals

Remember, rates aren’t the only factor to consider. Look at the whole package, including arrangement fees, early repayment charges, and the overall mortgage term. Sometimes a lower interest rate might come with higher fees, so weigh the total costs to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

One of the best ways to find a good mortgage rate is to shop around. Don’t just settle for the first offer you receive—different lenders offer different rates and terms, so it’s important to compare. Use mortgage comparison websites, consult with mortgage brokers, and visit your local banks to get a comprehensive view of what’s available.

Improve Your Credit Score

Your credit score plays a significant role in the mortgage rates you’re offered. Lenders use your credit score to assess the risk of lending to you—generally, the higher your score, the better the rates you’ll be eligible for.

To improve your credit score, make sure you’re paying bills on time, keeping credit card balances low, and avoiding too many applications for credit in a short period. Check your credit report for any errors and get them corrected if needed. Even a slight improvement in your credit score could open the door to better mortgage deals. 

Get Pre-Approved

Obtaining pre-approval for a mortgage can be a game-changer in your home-buying journey. Pre-approval not only gives you a clear idea of how much you can afford, but it also shows sellers and builders that you’re a serious buyer. 

While pre-approval isn’t a guarantee of the final mortgage offer, it can provide a useful benchmark as you continue to shop for the best rates..

CategoriesCommercial

Our journey with Toomey Motor Group

By George Martin Limited,

Building with Toomey Motor Group

At George Martin Ltd, our mission is twofold: creating exceptional commercial and residential properties and fostering strong, lasting relationships throughout every project. We are known in Essex for our quality, integrity, local focus, and good reputation, making us a trusted name.

We have been able to work on many important projects. Each project has helped us grow and strengthen our values as commercial developers.

This approach has ensured not just customer satisfaction but also sustainable growth for our clients.

We have worked with Toomey Motor Group since 1962. They are a respected car dealership. They offer 11 reliable car brands. Toomey Motor Group’s presence in Essex is impressive, with sites strategically located in Basildon, Brentwood, and Rochford.

We have worked closely with them for years to improve their presence in these areas by building custom units that meet their specific needs. Our purpose-built structures have become integral to their operations, supporting their long-term success strategy.

The Partnership

We started working with Toomey Motor Group in 1962. Our partnership is based on similar values and both of us succeeding together. One of our first important projects was the Basildon Automotive Retail Park. This project laid the groundwork for our ongoing partnership.

This project aimed to build the headquarters for MJT Securities. It will also include offices for Toomey Motor Group, Unit Export Limited, and Toomey Leasing Group. Our company will have offices there as well.

The development started in 1986 with building Service House and the Toomey Motor Group petrol station. Service House offers 60,000 square feet of space, built for the future to support the Basildon Vauxhall dealerships.

This facility is big and has modern showrooms, workshops, parts storage, staff areas, and offices. These areas are designed to enhance the experience for both employees and customers.

The showrooms and workshops are modern with he parts storage and staff areas alike. The offices are designed to improve the experience for employees and customers. The result has been a high level of customer loyalty and long-term customer relationships that have significantly boosted the sales teams’ performance.

The Following Projects

As Toomey Motor Group continued to grow, so too did our partnership. In response to their expanding needs, we developed a 12-acre site that would become a cornerstone of their business.

In 1995, a major part of the expansion was the construction of the Nissan dealership. This included new showrooms, workshops, and other related spaces. In 1997, Toomey Renault dealership was developed, strengthening our partnership and role in their growth.

Our collaboration didn’t stop there. In 2002, we demolished part of the Vauxhall workshop to build a new Peugeot dealership. This project exemplified the trust and professionalism that have become hallmarks of our relationship with Toomey Motor Group.

We always deliver high-quality work. This has helped us build and keep strong relationships and as a result, our customers have been successful and satisfied over the years.

In 2013, we worked together again to develop the Citroen dealership at their Basildon site. We have made progress in adapting to our clients’ needs. This ensures that every project meets and exceeds their expectations. We use data to make decisions and create spaces that make customers happy and help sales teams succeed.

Developing Relationships

In recent years we have aided Toomey Motor Group in adding more parking, improving landscaping, and introducing Smart Tech in their showrooms.

In 2007-2017 we also took on their Rochford site development. Just a stones throw from the busy town centre the Rochford site houses similar dealerships with the new ode to Hyundai. The 17 acres of land is home to 25,000 square footage of car dealerships, office spaces, petrol stations and KFC.

We continue to form relationships inside the group for our longstanding partnership. Our ongoing development of the Basildon, Rochford and Brentwood site.

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CategoriesResidential

Why Buy New?

By George Martin Limited,

Why Buy New?

There are benefits to both new build and older properties, but we’re here to convince you why you should buy a new build home.

Reason 1

Newly built homes are designed and constructed with efficiency at the forefront.

One of the primary advantages is their superior energy efficiency, which directly translates to lower energy bills. Energy efficient home’s are a large selling point.

These homes incorporate advanced insulation materials, double or triple-glazed windows, and state-of-the-art central heating systems. This focus on energy efficiency not only makes new build homes environmentally friendly but also significantly reduces monthly utility costs, providing a long-term financial benefit.

This reduced waste and made the most of a well-suited building! We’re looking for more ways to make our develops more environmentally friendly.

Reason 2

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Modern new build homes offer exceptional security and convenience, especially appealing to first-time buyers. A newly built home provides a secure blank canvas, requiring little to no renovation unless you choose to personalize the interiors.

At George Martin LTD, we ensure that both your moving process and the construction journey are smooth and stress-free. With home builders boasting over 60 years of experience, we guarantee that every aspect of your new home meets the highest standards of quality and security.

Reason 3

One common misconception about new build properties is that they lack character. However, a new home is, in fact, a blank canvas that offers endless possibilities for personalization. Whether it’s repainting a room, installing custom cabinetry, or designing a cozy garden space, new build homes provide the perfect opportunity to create a space that reflects your unique taste and style. This flexibility allows you to start fresh and make the home truly your own with minimal effort.

Reason 4

For first-time buyers, new homes are a noteworthy choice due to the various incentives and schemes available. The UK government supports several programs designed to assist new buyers in stepping onto the property ladder. These schemes often provide financial benefits, making new build homes more accessible and affordable.

More details on these schemes can be found here offering you the opportunity to explore your options and take advantage of available savings.

Reason 5

At George Martin LTD, we prioritize adherence to stringent guidelines and compliance with building regulations. Our teams design, create, and build homes to the highest standards, ensuring safety, durability, and quality. This commitment to excellence means that buyers can have complete confidence in the integrity of their new home.

Unlike older properties that may require costly updates to meet current standards, new builds are constructed with the latest building codes and regulations in mind, offering peace of mind and assurance.

Choosing a new build home is a smart investment in quality, efficiency, and modern living. So why buy new? Because it’s an opportunity to create a home that perfectly suits your lifestyle while enjoying the peace of mind that comes with knowing your property is built to last.

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CategoriesResidential

Freehold VS Leasehold

By George Martin Limited,

Freehold VS Leasehold

When looking for a new home it’s important to understand what everything means. So, what’s the difference between freehold and leasehold properties?

Freehold

A freehold property is where the owner of the home also has indefinite ownership of the land. The land refers to the place where the structure such as the house is built on.

The benefits of a freehold property is versatile including having full control over the property. When purchasing this type of property you will also be completely rent free. Your ownership of the land also doesn’t expire. This will be whether you home is a new build or apartment.

Your home and the land it sits on may also be easier to sell in the future. Although freehold properties have their benefits they can also be initially more expensive. These properties have a higher purchase price making them less affordable for the likes of for first-time buyers.

Another downside to freehold properties is the maintenance work and time you’ll need to dedicate tot he land. This includes repairs and other significant costs.

The freeholder will always be responsible for maintaining their land and property. In urban areas such as large towns and cities it may be hard to find these types of properties. This is as a result of land availability.

Older homes, such as those you can purchase resell, will often come with a freehold.

Leasehold

A leasehold property is a where the homeowner has the right to use the land but on a time limit. The specified time is outlines on a lease agreement when the home or building is purchased. The agreement will also state the amount of ground rent the homeowner is meant to pay. A leasehold property often also comes with service charge. 

Although this type of property has it’s monthly costs it can be initially cheaper. The value of a leasehold home is often reduced. This is as you will need to pay either a monthly or annual ground rent.

Leaseholders will often need permission from the freeholder to make any modifications or renovations to the land/property. This can become an issue or often be restricting to your home.

During the purchase of a leasehold property there may also be solicitors concerns depending on the time remaining on the lease contract. If there is a short time (often under 50 years) the solicitor may raise concerns. This is to protect the buyer from any disputes. If the lease has a short amount of time remaining it can often be expensive to gain a lease extension.

As the term of the lease decreases so can the property value. Often leaseholders can gain the opportunity to buy their freehold. This can boost the property value immensely.

How to choose

If you’re on a low budget when purchasing your new home a leasehold property might be right for you. However if you’ve got more finance room and are looking for flexibility and full ownership a freehold property will fit you better.

CategoriesResidential

5 things to know when buying a new build

By George Martin Limited,

5 things to know when buying a new build

New build properties are a large investment and as more developments are arising in both rural and city area’s we’ve got the guide to see you through! Here are our top 10 things to know when buying a new build home.

1 - New build homes can be bought "off plot"

To get a level of security when get in the door with any first buyer offers you can buy an “off plot” when purchasing your new build. Developers offer these plots to those who would like input into the fixtures and fittings of a home. Depending on the development size you can often buy off plot homes around 1-2 years before the completion of the development.

2 - All about warranty

Some newly built homes come with a warranty that can cover things like structural changes, appliances and even windows! Always research your development and what warranty is on offer.

3 - Inspection is key

Inspection is the key to success when purchasing your new build. If you’d like absolute certainty during your home-buying experience hire an independent inspector. These inspectors will look at both structural, interior and exterior details of the home to ensure they’re all up to standard.

4 - Location

Your new home is where you going to live and whether that is for a while or you plan to relocate it’s important to research further into the location of the development. Ensure you look at local amenities, schools and even commuting routes (planes, trains and cars.)

What makes a good location?

5 - Completion

The completion of a newly built home has a similar process to purchasing a resold home. Always be clear to your developer or estate agent of your wanted completion date. Outline an action plan to all parties if there are any delays and ensure any promises to a timelines are in writing. 

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Email

admin@georgemartinltd.co.uk

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George Martin Limited 
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Basildon
SS15 6RW

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George Martin Limited 2023
Registered office: Service House, West Mayne, Basildon, Essex SS15 6RW. A member of MJT Securities Ltd.
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