Your guide to buying a new build home

Buying a new home is one of life’s most exciting milestones - but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. Whether you’re a first‑time buyer, upsizing for a growing family, or looking for a fresh start, this guide walks you through each step of the process and highlights the important things to remember along the way.

1. Understand your budget

Before you fall in love with a home, you’ll want to understand exactly what you can afford.

Key things to do:

• Work out your income, outgoings, and how much you can comfortably put towards a mortgage each month.

• Check your credit score early - it can impact the mortgage rates you’re offered.

• Factor in additional costs: reservation fees, surveys, solicitor fees, moving costs, and any optional upgrades.

2. Get a mortgage in principle

A mortgage in principle (MIP) or agreement in principle gives you an estimate of what a lender may be willing to offer.

Why it matters:

• It strengthens your position when you reserve a home.

• It speeds up the formal mortgage application later.

Don’t forget: We have a number of recommended IFA’s which specialise in New Build mortgages, that we can put you in touch with to discuss your affordability.

3. If you have a property to sell

If you’re not a first‑time buyer, selling your existing home becomes a key part of the process. Planning ahead can help everything run smoothly - and reduce stress later.

Get your current home ready

• Declutter, freshen up, and carry out any minor repairs.

• Gather key documents such as warranties, building regulations, or guarantees.

Choose the right selling route

You can either:

• Appoint a local estate agent, or

• Use incentives offered through a new home developer, we offer an Assisted move or Part exchange scheme, if available.

Assisted move

Our assisted move scheme makes moving easier and saves you money. We will hold your new home for up to six weeks whilst you sell your current home. You could save up to £5,000 in estate agent fees.

Our team will stay in touch with you and your estate agent to keep things on track. We’re here seven days a week to answer your questions and help you along the way. Assisted Move is available on selected plots, speak to our sales team to find out more.

Part exchange

Part exchange gives you a quick and guaranteed sale on your current home. By partnering with Property PX Group, we can help you skip the uncertainty of selling on the open market. Property PX Group will value your home, make a formal offer, and handle the sale.

You won’t have to worry about estate agent fees or delays. Property PX Group manages your current home sale, and we’ll support you through buying your new home. Part exchange is available at all our developments.

Timing is everything

To avoid delays:

• Put your home on the market early.

• Keep your estate agent updated on your intended move.

• Be ready to accept offers promptly so you don’t risk losing your reserved plot.

Tip: A chain‑free sale always puts you in a stronger buying position.

4. Start your home search

Now the exciting part begins. When exploring options, consider:

• Location: Transport links, schools, amenities, and future growth.

• Home types: Layouts, parking options, garden size, and energy‑efficiency ratings.

• Community: What kind of lifestyle are you looking for?

Remember: Visit showhomes and register your interest

5. Reserve your new home

Once you’ve found "the one", you can reserve your plot.

What this includes:

• Paying a reservation fee to reserve your home. which is taken off your deposit.

• Receiving a reservation agreement outlining timelines, inclusions, and next steps.

Important:

• For properties over £500,000 the reservation fee is £5,000 and homes under this would be £2,000. This is fully refundable within 14 days from reservation.

• Our timeline for exchange of contracts is 28 days from reservation.

6. Instruct a solicitor

A property solicitor will handle the legal side of your purchase.

They will:

• Review contracts

• Conduct searches

• Liaise with us and your mortgage lender

Tips:

• We have recommended solicitors that know our developments well.

• Always check a solicitor you choose will work with new homes

• Respond quickly to requests so the process stays on track.

7. Submit your full mortgage application

With your plot reserved and solicitor instructed, you’re ready to complete your mortgage application.
You’ll need:

• Proof of ID and address

• Bank statements

• Pay slips or accounts if self‑employed

• Details of the property you’re buying

Remember: Mortgage offers have expiry dates - important for new‑build timelines.

8. Exchange contracts

This is a major milestone.

At exchange:

• You pay your 10% deposit.

• You commit legally to purchasing the home.

• The developer commits to selling it to you.

Check: Anticipated completion dates and any conditions in your contract.

• On exchange you have the opportunity to instruct a professional snagger to go into your house before completion

9. Legal completion & move-in day

On completion day:

• Your mortgage funds are transferred.

• You receive your keys.

• Your new home is officially yours!

Top things to remember:

• Arrange buildings insurance to start on completion.

• Inform utility providers and set up your accounts.

• Redirect your post and update important documents.

10. Home demonstration & snagging

Once you have moved in, the site team will walk you through your new home.

They’ll show you:

• How appliances and heating systems work

• Where key controls are

• How to report issues

Snagging

It’s normal for small items to need correcting - this is part of buying a new‑build. Keep a list and report them promptly.

11. Settling in & aftercare

Our homes come with a:

• 2 year warranty

• 10‑year NHBC structural warranty

Make sure you know:

• How to report aftercare issues through our Customer Care team

• What is covered and for how long

• How to maintain your home for longevity and efficiency

Final thoughts

Buying a new‑build home is a rewarding journey that gives you a blank canvas to shape your life exactly as you want it. With the right preparation and support, the process can feel clear, exciting, and empowering.

Find your home