Hi!

[tian]

Hello!

Just dropping by to say hi from South London!

My wife and I are currently in the process of purchasing a semi detached property.
Although I have always tried to steer clear of new builds (for dislike of cheap plaster walls - something that has been a constant challenge in terms of keeping TV's and curtains mounted and sound insulation), my wife (hook, line and sinker for "but new houses looks so tidy!") has persuaded me otherwise for our first property.

We will be posting our experiences throughout this our First time buyer experience.

T

[Admin]

Welcome to the forum.
The good news is you have found this forum and will hopefully read all the great information here and on the main website and our blog at www.new-home-blog.co.uk

The bad news is that new homes have far more disadvantages than stud and drylined walls.

Being informed, you should avoid the likes of Persimmon, Bovis and Taylor Wimpey and buy from one of the "better" housebuilders and have your new home professionally and independently snagged and inspected before you move in.

[tian]

Thanks Admin,

Wise advice indeed! I've already called around for professional snagging quotes, visited the area last week (without EA) to speak to the prospective neighbours. The properties were completed last year and they didn't have any big issues (neighbours reported the occasional settlement crack, but the developers promptly patched this upon request).

We have been renting for the last 4 years, mostly in new builds and are familiar with some of the shocking issues - ranging from flimsy / badly fitted front doors (which results in mould in the hallway / daily slug infestations), broken windows to just plain poor design - storage heating that didn't really work. On the other hand, we've had some good rentals well where we didnt really have big issues.


We did a fair bit of googling before putting in the offer and are going into this adventure with eyes wide open!