There’s nothing more exciting than moving into a brand new home. Whether you’re accommodating for an addition to the family or you’ve just outgrown your current place, that new home feeling never gets old.
Are you on the hunt for your new home?
Here at Carman Friend, we relish in the opportunity to help people find their dream properties. We love it just as much as you do! There are so many types of homes to choose from. Some people already have their heart set on a quaint cottage or a modern townhouse before they’ve even put a For Sale sign up. However, not all of us are quite so decisive. Would a newly built property suit you down to the ground? Or would you be more comfortable in an older building with its own history? Let’s find out – here is the ultimate guide to buying either a new or old build!
Advantages of older homes
There are many reasons why you might prefer to go for a previously lived-in house. Existing home buyers love the charm and stability that they come with – let’s explore some of the perks to relying on a pre-loved building.
Established neighbourhood
Moving into a neighbourhood of older homes is likely to mean that there’s already an existing community there. The longer people have lived somewhere, the more integrated they become. Your new old home may be in an area with a Neighbourhood Watch or at least a group of neighbours who thoroughly know the area and like to keep an eye on things. You’re likely to feel safer in an already established community.
Sense of character and history
It goes without saying that an older house is more likely to have beautiful period features and a unique history of its own. If you’re into traditional buildings and individual details, an old property is for you. You may also fall in love with the way a previous owner has decorated and designed their house.
What you see is what you get
You can do your homework with an older property. Get a survey done – maybe get two – and patiently await the results. You can also read a home’s EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) quite easily. If you’re pleased with the findings, you’ll be in safe hands to go ahead and make an offer.
Negotiation tactics
If you’re buying an older house, chances are the person living there has a good reason to be moving. There may also be room for negotiation within the condition of the property, considering it’s not a new build. These reasons give you more chance of coming to an offer that suits both you and the seller.
Advantages of new homes
Buying new builds is definitely a preferred option to some people. There are many great reasons to go down this avenue – let’s check out the top advantages of taking the plunge.
A clean slate
It’s a no-brainer that a new home is much easier to customise to your personal taste. It’s especially more important to consider this type of property if you’re into modern furnishings. Most newly built houses now come ready-made with simple, clean decor that you can customise to suit you. If you buy early enough in the construction process, some homes will be fitted with certain specifications, such as kitchen tiles, that you can choose.
No chain
With brand-new properties, waiting around for a seller to budge is out of the equation! It can be frustrating waiting around to sign on the dotted line, but with a new-build, you’ll be free from the stress of that uncertainty.
High Spec
All new homes are built to high standard specifications. They tend to come installed with the newest, up-to-date appliances and safety regulations. They’ll also likely come with an NHBC warranty which lasts for ten years. This is perfect for first-time buyers who don’t want the stress of DIY or maintaining old damage!
Energy efficiency
It’s no secret that newer homes are more energy efficient than older properties. This is due to the high standard of which they are built – with double glazing being a given. Being energy efficient isn’t just about saving the planet, it’ll also ease up pressure on your wallet.
Which one is right for you?
One of these advantages may have really struck a chord with you. We hope it’s helped you to decide what kind of route you want to go down in your property seeking adventure. However, if you’re still unsure, perhaps you need some more inspiration… why not have a sift through all our current properties for sale to see if any take your fancy?
