Are New-Build Homes Worth Buying?
Many people are now choosing older houses over new-build homes. A recent report shows that more than half of home buyers think older houses are of better quality than new-builds. This trend is causing concern for housebuilders and the government.
One main reason is the lack of trust in the quality of new-build homes. A survey by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) found that 55% of people believe older homes are better. In contrast, only 21% said that new-build homes are of higher quality. About 32% of the people surveyed even described new builds as “poor quality.” This negative view is not just about opinions; it affects home sales and the housing market.
There have been some high-profile failures by a few housebuilders that have hurt the overall reputation of new builds. For example, Diane Jackson bought a new home for £315,000 in Darwen, Lancashire. Just 10 days after getting the keys, she found damp problems and a bug infestation. She had to pay both her mortgage and rent because she could not move into her new house. Diane’s experience is a reminder that quality issues can create big problems for buyers.
On the other hand, many housebuilders say that most new homes are built to high standards. They argue that quality has improved in recent years and that strict regulations now ensure better construction practices. The Home Builders Federation even states that most buyers of new-build homes are happy with their purchase.
Some experts believe that new homes should have more independent inspections during construction. Snagging inspectors, like John Cooper from New Home Quality Control, say that many problems, such as walls being out of plumb, could be fixed earlier if independent checks were done throughout the building process. This could help restore trust among buyers.
The UK faces a long-term housing shortage, and many people are forced to buy new builds because there are not enough older homes available. High property prices and low numbers of new houses built each year add to the problem. The government has created bodies like the New Homes Ombudsman and the New Homes Quality Board to help fix these issues, but there is still work to be done.
In summary, while many new-build homes may meet high standards, negative experiences and quality issues have made many buyers prefer older homes. Building more trust and ensuring better quality control during construction could help change these perceptions and boost sales in the new home market. What do you think: are new-build homes worth buying, or should buyers stick with older properties? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Questions
- Do you trust new-build homes or prefer older houses?
- Have you or someone you know had a bad experience with a new-build home?
- Do you think stricter quality checks during construction could improve buyer trust?
- Is it worth paying more for an older home over a new-build?
- How effective do you think government regulations are in ensuring quality construction?
- Should independent inspections be done throughout the building process?
- What is the most important factor for you when choosing a home: quality, price, or location?
- Would you buy a new-build if it promised high standards and modern features?
- Do you believe negative news about construction failures affects everyone’s view of new homes?
- How can housebuilders restore trust in new-build homes for future buyers?
