There’s an ongoing debate about whether new build homes, or older properties make for a better purchase. But it is entirely dependent on the buyer, their needs, short and long-term goals, and finances.

There are pros and cons to both, but these vary for each person and circumstance. But, with that in mind, here are five things to consider when buying a new build home in 2025 - the positives, negatives and everything in between.

Buyer incentives

New builds are continuing to grow in popularity, particularly with first-time buyers or people looking for further support with the initial purchase.

Many property developers offer buyers a variety of incentives - from lower deposits, rate reducers and shared ownership to interior and appliance upgrades. All of this makes a new build home a much more appealing option.

For those who have smaller deposits or are happy to consider additional help that may come with a clause of some sort, then new builds are the perfect choice. It’s a great way to get on to the property ladder without too much of an upfront cost.

Less maintenance

Due to the nature of these homes and with people being able to buy them directly ‘off plot’, this means that many have never been lived in before, and come with a 10 year warranty. 

Even those that have had previous owners and haven’t been bought directly off plot, will still be considered ‘new’ in regard to its structure, the foundations and its interior and exterior features.

Because these homes are new, they haven’t experienced any structural movement, modifications or changes, and haven’t tired with age - as with older homes. With age comes the need to repair - from the building itself, to boilers and electricals.

This isn’t to say that new build homes don’t come with flaws in terms of the way in which they are built or structured. No matter the age of a property, it is sensible to enlist the expert advice and guidance of a RICS surveyor.

A new build RICS survey is an affordable way to ensure you have peace of mind that the property is in pristine condition with little to no issues, and if it isn’t quite what you were expecting - this will provide you with the opportunity to negotiate on sales price, or withdraw your offer.

Lower household bills

Similarly to the above, because everything is somewhat new, this means that these homes are built to the most up to date industry standards, combined with modern building techniques - all of which contributes to cheaper household bills..

Much more energy efficient than older properties, new build homes make for low-cost bills when it comes to water, heating and electricity. Some of them even have solar panels and other methods of increasing levels of sustainability and affordability, meaning lower household bills.

Appliances, boilers and low energy lighting are also installed with the aim to reduce carbon footprint whilst making monthly bills more affordable.

Lacking in space, storage and privacy

Whilst potentially more affordable in terms of an initial deposit and household bills, newer build homes are typically lacking in space, storage and privacy.

Due to being built on a development site and housing estate, this means there are hundreds and sometimes even thousands of houses surrounding one another. This means that newer build homes are smaller than their older counterparts due to having to share so much of the space and land with other properties.

This also creates a knock on effect of lack of storage and lack of privacy for newer homes - not an issue for some, but a deciding factor for many.

New home premium: not always worth the long-term investment

Although there is additional support in terms of getting on the property ladder and with the likes of buyer incentives, new build homes also come at an overall premium in terms of initial house price.

However, the ‘new build premium’ disappears soon after the purchase has been made - much like it does with a brand new car. Once a property has been lived in, the value of such begins to decrease.

This may seem contradictory, considering that all other elements of the property remain the same. But in the eyes of the housing market, a property is no longer considered ‘brand new’ once it’s been lived in, so a new build home that is just a year or two old, will not be worth what it was first purchased for.

With this in mind, it’s wise for people buying new build homes to consider this a long-term option and investment - whether that’s to live in, or to rent out.

Is a new build home worth it?

Again, it depends on a person’s needs and individual circumstances. If you’re seeking to buy a new build home as a short-term investment, it may be worth reconsidering given that it will fall in value, even if a little.

However, if you’re looking for something that is cost-effective in terms of day-to-day running and are planning on the purchase being a long-term investment, then a new build could be the perfect option.

So, is a new build right for you?

To arrange a free quote or consultation with a member of our team, please contact us today!