When it comes to buying a home there’s a lot of choices on offer, one of the key ones being whether to opt for a new home. It can be hard to look past the shiny interiors to get to the facts, but as new homes enthusiasts we can give you the rundown on all the ways that a new build can enhance your homeownership journey. From the aesthetic appeal to ease of living, as well as how new homes can save you money on energy and renovations, take a look at everything they can offer.
Contemporary design
Undoubtedly one of the reasons people buy new build homes is for the contemporary design and modern fixtures and fittings that they include, but that designer experience is more than surface level. Open plan living is the norm in many new build homes, and it’s likely that is a particular attraction in a market where open plan kitchen and living can add 3-5% to the value of a property. New homes also account for the realities of how open plan homes can function, including areas like home offices and utilities that people like to be out of the way. Sometimes the positive of a modern built home is all in the details, like plenty of electrical sockets with USB ports, or more water efficient plumbing. As of 2022, 35% of housing stock in England was built pre 1945 – it’s unlikely that a lot of those homes will include necessary modern features like car parking. The reality is that we live differently in 2025 than we did even in 2010, and new homes are better at reflecting that change.
Peace of mind
Imagine moving into a home and knowing that whilst it is yours, if an unknown fault emerges in the next few years, it won’t be your job, or even your expense, to deal with it. That’s what a new home warranty provides. In most cases if you buy a new build home, you’ll be provided with a 10 year warranty; the initial 2 years covers for defects such as poorly fitted windows or pipework, whilst the remaining 8 years covers major structural problems like roofs and foundations. Having everything brand new gives you a head start on all future homes maintenance, it is recommended that roofs be replaced every 25 years, and the average boiler lasts from 10 to 15 years, buying new means all these elements should last for years to come. Almost half of potential home buyers would buy new because of the new homes warranty, indicating how much they mean to people.
Energy efficiency
One of the most measurable benefits of buying a new build home is the energy efficiency benefits. As of 2025 86% of new builds have an EPC rating of A or B, compared to less than 5% of existing older properties. The reality of that can be measured not only in emissions of 65% less carbon a year, but in financial terms, with average energy savings of more than 50%. New build homes achieve a lot of their efficiency through the high standard of insulation and triple glazing available as standard in 2025, they also increasingly benefit from modern energy generation methods such as ground source and air source heat pumps, as well as solar panels. In 2025 the future homes standard will become mandatory, with the goal that new homes of the future will produce 75-80% less carbon emissions than under current regulations. New homes are the obvious option for anyone looking to save money and help the environment.
Fresh start
Moving into a new build property presents an exciting blank canvas, featuring brand-new appliances and sleek, neutral interiors. These allow homeowners to personalise their space at their own pace rather than rushing to rip out some dated design choices. Additionally, purchasing a new build eliminates any stresses that come from buying from a previous owner, from redirecting post to the perils of a buying chain. Buying new generally mean a faster journey from offer to completion – potentially 28 days faster than second-hand homes. New build developments also offer an opportunity for community building where loads of people move into a new development simultaneously, especially as housebuilders in the UK contribute an estimated £7bn annually towards local authorities for community and infrastructure improvements. Overall, the opportunity of buying a new home means you get not only a home that’s a fresh new canvas, but a whole community that you can be a part of building.
Schemes and incentives
New build homes come with a variety of schemes and incentives that make homeownership more accessible and affordable. Options like Shared Ownership or the Own New scheme are great for those struggling with affordability, whilst Part Exchange and Assisted Move is often an option for those trying to move home without the hassle. Many developers also offer incentives like covering legal fees or providing upgrades, for developers all these schemes help to maximise their market of potential buyers. By taking advantage of these schemes, buyers can navigate the home-buying process more easily, benefiting from lower costs and greater flexibility.
In short, choosing to buy a new home offers up a myriad of benefits to enhance the homeownership experience. New homes are tailored to meet the needs of today's buyers, offering them a modern space and new community for a fresh start. They also provide practical advantages, such as the best energy efficiency to lower carbon output as well as bills, and warranties that minimise worries. This might sound like benefits you only get at a premium, but in reality, new homes are often more accessible through a variety of schemes. Ultimately, investing in a new home means embracing a lifestyle that prioritises comfort, sustainability, and ease, making it an appealing option for anyone looking to embark on their homeownership journey.
If you're a buyer looking to buy new take a look at our listings here.
If you're a developer with new homes to sell, we can help, get in touch.
Sources
HBF – Unspent developer contributions
Today’s Conveyancer – New-build homes sell 28 days quicker
English Housing Survey 2022 to 2023
Property Price Advice – Adding Home Value with an Open-Plan Kitchen Living Room
Ideal Home – Replacing a roof - everything you need to know
HBF – Energy efficient new homes
CBRE – What is the 2025 Future Homes Standard and how will it impact residential real estate?
