Expert guides, market updates, and everything you need to know about buying a new-build home in the UK
Government SchemesA clear explanation of how the Lifetime ISA bonus works towards a new build deposit, including the £450,000 price cap, withdrawal rules, penalty charges for early access, and how to combine it with other government schemes.
Snagging & QualityA practical guide for new build owners on telling the difference between normal plaster shrinkage cracks and genuine snagging defects, what to log during the first year, and when to escalate to your developer or NHBC warranty.
Legal & ConveyancingUnderstand your legal position if your new build developer enters administration, including what happens to your reservation deposit, exchange contract, warranty cover, and completion, plus the practical steps to protect your purchase.
Costs & BudgetingA clear breakdown of what repaying a Help to Buy equity loan really costs, covering interest-free years, the interest rate rise, RPI-linked charges, and how the repayment amount is calculated when you sell, remortgage, or staircase.
Mortgages & FinanceA practical guide to shared ownership mortgages on new build homes: how part-buy part-rent financing works, which lenders offer these products, how deposits and affordability are assessed, and what staircasing costs later.
First-Time BuyersA first-time buyer's guide to the exchange and completion stages of buying a new build home in the UK — what happens, key deadlines, deposits, moving day logistics, and how to avoid common last-minute pitfalls before you collect the keys.
Buying GuidesA practical guide to checking official flood maps, questioning a development's SUDS drainage strategy, and understanding what flood risk means for mortgages, insurance, and resale value before you reserve a new build home.
HomeownershipMoving into a new build? From broadband and smart home tech to setting up utilities and a home office, here's everything you need to get connected and running from day one.
Costs & BudgetingGet a complete breakdown of new build conveyancing fees in the UK, from legal fees and disbursements to searches, Land Registry costs, and developer-side charges. Learn how to compare quotes, when to instruct your solicitor, and how to budget accurately.
Costs & BudgetingUnderstand the full costs of shared ownership on a new build home, including combined rent and mortgage payments, service charges, staircasing costs, deposit requirements, and how total monthly outgoings compare to buying outright or renting privately.
Costs & BudgetingCompare the real energy costs between new build homes and older properties in the UK. From EPC ratings and insulation standards to heat pump efficiency and solar PV savings, discover exactly how much you could save on annual bills with a new build home.
Costs & BudgetingUnderstand exactly what your new build warranty covers, from NHBC Buildmark protection in years 1-2 to structural cover in years 3-10. Learn about additional warranty options, the claiming process, and typical repair costs you would face without warranty protection.