New research suggests that it takes just 16 minutes for homebuyers to decide to purchase a home in London and the South East because of fierce competition. With such little time to spare, make sure you know what to look out for.
The agent:
‘Location is very important. Look around the immediate environment and check with the local planners about any plans to build on the surroundings – otherwise the view you’ve spent a lot of money on could be ruined. To create a feeling of space, pay special attention to the hallway because a large entrance makes a great first impression and opens out the whole property. If you want to make big alterations to your home, remember that there is a real shortage of good tradesmen in London and the South East, which is why so many people go for new build.
The Property: Burns and Webber Estate Agents are currently selling homes at Queen Elizabeth Park in Guildford. The new village community being built by Laing Homes and Linden Homes will comprises 525 dwellings. Prices are expected to be in the region of between £230,000 to £650,000. Call 01483 440800.
The developer: Richard Rawson
If you are considering buying a new build property find out how the developer can assist you in the entire moving process – some will help sell your old home, recommend financial and legal advice or allow you to personalise the new home. When visiting a show home, check out the quality of the kitchen appliances, the doors, the coving and the general build of the home. Ask yourself if the house is adaptable as the family needs change. For example, could a teenager’s bedroom be used for a future study? Find out if there are enough plug sockets for computer, telephone and fax.
The Property: Countryside Properties is selling 74 new homes at the Queen Charlotte’s Place development at Kings Hill Village in Kent. The homes have been designed in a traditional Georgian architectural style, where extra details such as porticoes, railings, balconies and sash windows have been included. Prices start at £289,950. Call 01732 875182.
The agent: Francoise Ellery
The most important point to look for is the size of rooms. Don’t be fooled by a room that is not bigger than a cupboard being promoted as a fourth bedroom or study, and ideally the bedrooms should have fitted wardrobes. Secondly, look at the kitchen. Is it large enough to eat in and is it fully fitted? Find out exactly what appliances will be included in the sale. When buying a brand new house, it is important to look at where the property lies in relation to its neighbours and that it is not too overlooked. Also check that it has been finished properly and all the snagging issues have been addressed.
The property: Parry Jones estate agents are marketing Loxley House, a spacious newly built family house on the outskirts of Dunsfold in Surrey. Set within a rural village location, the four-bedroom home priced at £750,000 will benefit from a large kitchen/breakfast room. Call 01483 893939.
The developer: Tim Sargeant
If you have your eye on a listed property, contact English Heritage or your local conservation officer who will be the best equipped when it comes to surveying the home. If you are buying a converted property, ensure you get good advice from the right professionals before you buy. Do your homework about the selling company you are dealing with and make sure they have a good reputation for reliable after-sales service. Think about the future use of the home. Good design is timeless and will not only offer you ease of use for the years you are living there but will also make it easier to sell when the time is right.
The property: Located down Avenue Road in Bishops Stortford, Essex is Stuarts, comprising three exclusive six-bedroom houses built over three floors. Features include an impressive entrance hall, partially glazed garden room and underfloor heating. Prices start at £950,000. Call City & Country Group on 01279 817882.