The best new build homes for sale now
(Picture: ES)Depending on who you ask, a new build is the ultimate in home ownership — or a byword for a cramped box with a chronic character deficiency.
General wisdom suggests new build homes come with a pumped-up price tag, benefits like higher energy efficiency are not to be sniffed at.
Research by Savills last month revealed that the majority of new builds sold between 2018 and 2020 achieved a ‘B’ rating on their EPC (Energy Performance Certificate), compared to a ‘D’ for a second-hand house and ‘C’ for a flat. Almost 80 per cent of clients surveyed said that the prospective energy performance of their next property has become more important to them.
Of course the best value new-build home is one you’ll want to stay in for at least a few years, which means looking at factors like the layout, local transport links and access to outdoor space with a view to the future.
How to buy a new-build home you won’t outgrow
Guy Meacock, director at Prime Purchase
Consider a smaller scheme for the community. “The bigger schemes can feel transient, with many properties held offshore by foreign investors who have no particular regard as to who lives there. Developments with fewer than 50 units are more likely to attract owner-occupiers, and these settled neighbours are what creates a community.”
Check local planning applications: “If the local authority has consented to one high tower, generally it will consent to another. I was asked for advice from someone buying a new-build flat in Blackfriars who was paying a premium for what he was told would be unimpeded views. In fact, I found that part of his view would be hindered by not one, but two, high-rise tower blocks which had also received planning.”
Dig into the developer’s track record. “Developers new to the residential market should come with a health warning. Though a track record won’t guarantee you a product of great quality, I’ve seen plenty of examples where newbie developers have got the finish and marketing wrong because they haven’t understood the target demographic.”
Rhianne McIlroy, prime property advisor at Middleton Advisors
Find a balance between shiny amenities and the service charge. “There’s an emerging trend within the new-build sector to create a community within the building – schemes like Battersea Power Station offer a village quality with luxury facilities under one roof. Be aware that amenities will affect the service charge, with spas, cinemas and parking some of the highest expenses.”
Take show flats with a pinch of salt. “Never take a show apartment at face value, as in some cases the standards can differ from the finished flats in the rest of the building. Take the time to research the developer and any previous projects they have been involved in.”
10 new-build homes on sale now
East Finchley, N2
£825,000
This two-bedroom home in a gated development close to Hampstead Garden Suburb is one of only fifteen properties. It has a good-size rear garden, underfloor heating and secure parking, plus the option to add an electrical charging point. The Northern line at East Finchley station is a mile away.
Godfrey and Barr, 020 8458 9119
Brixton Hill, SW2
£1.1 million
One of three appealing homes designed by MW Architects and Kinland on a secluded plot between Brixton and Streatham, this design-conscious three-bed makes good use of poured concrete floors and ply cabinetry. There’s an air-source heat pump and all the windows are triple glazed.
The Modern House, 020 3795 5920
Bow, E3
£535,000
A two-bedroom waterside apartment overlooking the Limehouse Cut canal, five minutes from the DLR at Devons Road. It has a good-sized balcony and bathroom, plus access to a communal roof terrace. As an added perk, the stamp duty is paid for those who reserve a flat this month.
Dominus New Homes, 020 3910 0991
Leyton, E10
From £274k
This affordable development is available to first time buyers living or working in Waltham Forest. If you qualify there’s a wealth of amenities for this price point, from the three roof terraces to the residents’ lounge and co-working space. Leyton Station can deliver you to Stratford in four minutes.
Pocket Living, 020 7291 3683
Chingford, E4
£800,000
A detached, one-of-a-kind home with an open plan, industrial-feel living area and south-facing garden, plus four bedrooms. It has an appealing upside-down layout, with underfloor heating downstairs. Chingford station, with its direct connection into Liverpool Street, is within walking distance.
Butler & Stag, 020 8524 3333
Brentford, TW8
£650,000
This bright two-bedroom flat is part of a new block at the heart of Brentford’s riverfront regeneration project. There are two bathrooms and, winningly, a utility room – unusual for a two bed – as well as an allocated parking space. Residents have access to an outdoor heated swimming pool.
Johns & Co, 020 4574 0660
Plaistow, E13
£350,000
Sensibly laid-out one bed apartment in a small development of five flats, a few minutes from Plaistow tube station for the District and Hammersmith & City lines. The landscaped gardens at West Ham Park are within a ten minute walk.
Here Residential, 020 3479 4049
Finchley, N3
£699,950
A split-level maisonette in a mews created by award-winning architect Peter Barber, who specialises in creative new schemes. It has three-bedrooms and high-spec finishes throughout, from zone-controlled underfloor heating to a video entry system. Each house has a private garden and a balcony.
Johns & Co, 020 3871 5895
Islington, N1
£2.8 million
A unusual four bedroom house with almost 3,000 square ft of living space over three levels. Designed by the owners of Islington design showroom Aria, it’s arranged around a private courtyard on the site of an old department store. The independent shops and restaurants of Upper Street are on the doorstep.
Goldschmidt & Howland, 020 7043 4433
Muswell Hill, N10
£1.050 million
This well-proportioned family home, overlooking Muswell Hill playing fields, is close to a crop of good schools. There are four bedrooms and bathrooms, all with a focus on neutral, high-spec design. Though it’s tucked away from main roads, there’s swift access to the North Circular.
