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Why a new build home is a good investment

Oct 28, 2025
Abbey View
Are new builds worth it? Brand new homes can be an amazing investment for existing homeowners as well as first time buyers. With financial benefits like lower maintenance costs and modern fixtures, new builds are an attractive option for all kinds of buyers. 
 
In this article, we consider the advantages of buying a new-build home and why it might be a good investment for you.
 

Are new builds a good investment?

There are many reasons why buying a new build can be a great investment. From low deposit options to improved layouts and reduced maintenance, new builds can be an ideal option for those looking to get onto the property ladder or to move home. 
 

1. Low deposits and money saving schemes

New-build home schemes often come with low deposit options. 
 
Our Deposit Unlock scheme supports buyers when purchasing a new-build home with just a 5% deposit. Or consider our Deposit Boost scheme, which also helps buyers by matching 5% deposits, helping you reach 10% in total for your new home. 
 
At Barratt Homes, we offer both schemes to first time and existing buyers, helping you more comfortably afford a brand-new home.
 
There are also Government-backed schemes, like the First Homes scheme, which aids first time buyers with a 30% discount on a new build. This qualifies for homes that cost up to £250,000, or £420,000 in Greater London, making it a perfect saving scheme for new buyers.
 

2. Improved energy efficiency 

New-build homes can also have lower running costs than older homes, thanks to improved energy efficiency. Smart heating systems with energy tracking and better insulation can reduce heat loss for lower running costs. 
 
New builds will often benefit from improved Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings too, and this can help to increase the attractiveness of a home when you come to sell it.
 

3. Reduced maintenance 

Due to newer fixtures and better build quality, initial repair expenses are greatly reduced in a new build home. With no previous owners, there are no hidden surprises that need fixing when you move in, so you can get settled into your new home without any issues. 
 
Compliant with modern building standards, owners may also find themselves paying less on upkeep in the first few years. 
 

4. Modern layouts and customisation

New builds are designed with homeowners in mind. With modern layouts and newer fixtures, they won’t have the same outdated features older homes may have. Brand new kitchens, fresh carpets and modern appliances cut down the need for renovations and redecorating when you move.
 
With modern features like app-controlled heating systems, new build homes can be the most up-to-date option on the market. 
 

5. High safety standards and accessible features 

Built to current safety standards, new builds are usually compliant with the latest regulations to keep homeowners safe. This may include fire safety and electrical requirements, such as newer smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. 
 
Modern homes are also built with accessibility in mind, so there may be wider doorways, better ground-floor facilities or other features to accommodate homeowners.
 

6. Lack of property chain delays 

With no previous owners to worry about, there is less hassle involved in moving into a new build. 
 
There’s no need to wait for the sale of another home, so you can move in straight away without lengthy delays in the property chain. This also means no need to store items between moves, which can help you save on the cost of moving. 
 

7. Great locations and amenities 

New builds may be situated in better or more desirable areas, closer to transport links. This can be perfect for families looking for proximity to schools or those wanting to be within walking distance to shops. 
 
New developments often have added green spaces, communal areas and extra amenities that older homes may not have access to. New-build homes in up-and-coming areas, or locations with regeneration plans, also add value to a property. 
 

8. Warranties and quality assurance

New builds usually come equipped with warranties to protect homeowners from the risk of high costs if something goes wrong. They also offer added resale value potential, with coverage being transferable when you sell your home. 
 
Brand new fixtures and materials covered by warranties champion high-quality homes. Our new-build homes have a two-year builder warranty period followed by eight years of NHBC insurance cover. The NHBC warranty and insurance protect our buyers and give them peace of mind.
 

How market conditions can affect new build value

New builds and older homes can both be affected by market changes. Periods of high property demand but low supply will drive prices up. When supply is high, but demand is low, prices are likely to decline or stay the same. 
 

The ‘new build premium’ and resale value

New builds will often carry a higher price tag, sometimes called the ‘new build premium’. This means buyers may pay more for a new build than for a resale property. 
 
Over time, new builds can grow and retain their value thanks to factors like location and whether they are built by reputable developers. The modern features may be more attractive to buyers, increasing their value in the long term. 
 

New builds vs older homes: benefits and considerations

From added financial incentives in new builds to the character and charm of an older property, there are benefits and considerations to both types of homes. Homeowners can decide on the type of property they desire based on their wants and needs. 

New builds

 Benefits  Considerations
  • No property chain so delays are reduced
  • Schemes and low deposit options can make them more affordable 
  • Financial incentives can include developers covering Stamp Duty
  • Improved energy efficiency may result in lower bills 
 
 
  • New build premium and initial value depreciation
  • Teething problems may still arise
  • There could be delays in completion if you buy before the new build is ready
  • May be smaller room sizes in some new builds
 

Older homes

 Benefits  Considerations
  • Better value retention initially
  • The character and charm of an older property may be attractive to some homeowners
  • Larger rooms and bigger gardens may be typical in older homes 
  • The location of an older home may be desirable
 
  • Potential delays due to the chain of buyers
  • May require a higher deposit
  • Maintenance to repair issues from previous owners may be needed
  • Layouts can be outdated

Looking to move into a new home? Our Sales Advisers are on hand to guide you through your homebuying journey. Explore our range of new-build homes designed for modern living. Or check out our offers to help you get started. 

 

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