The Complete New Build Buyer's Guide

Buying a new build home is different from buying an older property. From reservation fees and developer incentives to mortgage deadlines and snagging, our free guide explains every stage so you know exactly what to expect.

Everything you need to know before buying a new build

Whether you’re buying your very first home or moving into a brand-new property, this guide will help you understand the new build buying process, avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions with confidence.

Along the way, we’ll explain how developers work, what incentives are available, how mortgages differ for new builds and what happens before and after completion.

What You Will Learn

Across the guide, we explain:

  • How buying a new build differs from purchasing an existing property.
  • What happens when you reserve a plot and the key deadlines you’ll need to meet.
  • How developer incentives work, including deposit contributions, upgrades and legal fee offers.
  • How new build mortgages differ, including mortgage offers, valuation considerations and completion deadlines.
  • What to expect while your home is being built, including build timelines and possible delays.
  • How snagging works and what to look out for before you move in.
  • What happens at exchange, legal completion and handover, so there are no surprises on moving day.
  • The most common mistakes buyers make when purchasing a new build and how to avoid them.

Whether you’re buying through one of our developer partners or independently, this guide has been created using the knowledge and experience our advisers have gained from helping thousands of customers successfully purchase new build homes across the UK.

Read It Your Way

You can follow the guide chapter by chapter, or jump straight to the chapter that answers your question. At the end of every chapter, you will be able to continue to the next one, return to the guide contents or speak to an adviser for personalised help.

Start with Chapter 1

Choose a Chapter

Start at the beginning or jump directly to the topic you need. Each chapter is designed to answer one part of the new build journey without overwhelming you.

  1. Why Buy a New Build Home 
  2. The New Build Buying Timeline
  3. Agreement in Principle (AIP)
  4. Developer Incentives
  5. Reserving Your New Home
  6. The Mortgage Application Process
  7. Exchange of Contracts
  8. Completion Day
  9. Snagging & New Build Warranties
  10. Protecting Your Home, Your Income and the People You Love
  11. New Build FAQs

Ready to Take the Next Step?

The guide is designed to help you understand the process, but your mortgage options will depend on your own circumstances. Our experienced advisers can explain what may be possible, answer your questions and support you from your first appointment through to collecting your keys.