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New Build vs Older Homes – What’s the Difference?
July, 2021

New Build vs Older Homes – What’s the Difference?

Whether you’re looking at taking that first important step towards home ownership, you’re on the lookout for a new property better equipped to house your growing family, or you’re preparing to downsize to a cosy retirement property – deciding whether to opt for a new build, or an older style home, can be a tricky decision to make.

Each property type has its benefits, and its drawbacks, but which one is the right choice for you? Here are some of the top factors you should take into consideration when deciding between a new build, or an older home.

The benefits of older homes

Something the British housing market is well known for is its vast offering when it comes to property types. From quaint cottages and traditional Victorian terraces to grand Georgian masterpieces and secluded country getaways. Whatever your property preference and budget, chances are there is an older home to suit you.

Benefits:

  • Character - If it’s character you’re after in your new home, then older properties have bags of it. Sash windows, ornate fireplaces, high and beautifully crafted ceilings. Older properties can’t be beaten when it comes to traditional charm.
  • Space – Many older houses have very spacious interior layouts, with ample storage space and typically larger gardens, perfect for growing families. 
  • Renovations – Putting your own stamp on your new home is often what people love most about acquiring an older property, helping to increase its overall value.
  • Thicker walls – Older properties generally tend to be built from thicker materials than newer builds, which can contribute to noise reduction.
  • Help to Buy - A scheme once only available for new-builds, first time homeowners can now enjoy the same benefits of 5% deposits on older homes with property values under £600,000 through the Government backed mortgage guarantee scheme. 

The benefits of new builds

There’s something special about getting the keys to your new home, knowing you’re the first ones to live there! Even if you aren’t the first, there’s still a feeling of freshness and vibrancy with new build properties that you just can’t recreate with older homes.

Benefits:

  • Efficiency – New build properties are usually very well insulated with cavity wall foam and double-glazing, making them very energy efficient and cutting down on electricity and gas bills. 
  • No chains – One of the biggest advantages of buying a new build property is that you aren’t stuck waiting for the owners to move out (although there can sometimes be development delays to consider). 
  • 10-year warranty – many new builds come with builder guarantees (usually in the form of a 10-year warranty) for additional piece of mind.
  • Great designs – New build properties are often designed with the modern family in mind and built to specification, allowing you to put your own stamp on it during the building process. 
  • Help to Buy - For first time buyers seeking out a new build property, the Government will lend up to 20% of the value of your new home through an equity loan, while also benefiting from the low 5% deposit scheme.  

So, which to choose?

Both property types come with their advantages and disadvantages. It’s always wise to discuss your options with someone who knows your area, and the different property types on offer that might suit you.

 That’s where we come in. Get in touch with our friendly team at ShineRocks and let us help you take the first steps towards your next home.

 

Have any questions?

Use the form to send us your questions and we'll respond as quickly as possible.

You can also call us on 020 8660 2010, or email enquiries@shinerocks.co.uk.


 

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Having tried a couple estate agents to sell our house, with no result, we tried ShineRocks. Paul Shinerock was realistic in his valuation, which others had not been and we had a number of viewings. A Christmas present was accepting a very good offer. Unfortunately, the buyer dragged his heels and then at the point of exchange decided to...

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Very professional and excellent service in a complicated situation which resulted in a positive result. We have purchased 2 homes from Paul in the last 14 years. Claire is remarkable and kept us fully up to speed

Mr P

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Hi Caire, Can you say a massive 'thank you' to Paul for coming to see me. He really gave me some things to think about that had just not crossed my mind. Swapping the bathroom and middle bedroom and adding a bathroom to the main bed room made so much sense, I've got Alan coming over on Saturday to cost it up! I'll definitely...

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CT

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Mr D

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Hi the ShineRocks Team Would like to say thank you for a great service in completing on our house.  We are totally blessed, we feel so lucky.  Your team with friendly voices were very proactive in updating us.  Paul you have a good team around and to say the least, you have some charm. You are a very nice bunch of people to...

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S and M

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B

Thank you for everything you've done. I couldn't have got through this without you. Putting up with every difficult situation in such a kind way. Thank you so much. 

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Paul, Claire and all the team at ShineRocks have always acted with the utmost professionalism and in my experience have been the best estate agency I have ever encountered.

Mr H

 

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