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The key differences between a period property and new build home

Oct 03, 2019
The key differences between a period property and new build home

Whether it's a new build or a period property, choosing your home is one of the biggest decisions you'll make in your life. That's why it's important to do your research and know all the facts before you take the plunge. Here we explore the key differences between a period property and a new build home.

Many people looking for a new home dream of a period property. They want the personality and character, and ideally one that comes with original features. Buyers often want the unique style of a period home, but also want a property that’s efficient, cheap to run and snug on cold evenings. And that’s where a well-constructed, beautifully designed new build home can really compete.

Individuality 

Part of the attraction of a period property is the desire for a home that stands out from the crowd. Whilst you will find this in a period property, David Wilson homes are also designed with style in mind. It’s easy to look unique in both a period property and a newly built David Wilson home, but a new home is likely to have many more modern
comforts.

Running costs 

An important thing to consider when choosing a new home is the running costs. Many buyers will also be concerned about their property’s environmenal impact.

 

New homes are built to a far higher specification than older buildings, meaning they are cheaper to heat and stocked with appliances that are cheaper to run. According to the Home Builders Federation (HBF), a newly built home is 65% more efficient than a period property. Homeowners can also save as much as 55% on energy bills in a new build compared to an older property. 

 

With a David Wilson home there won’t be any unexpected draughts or rooms that simply won’t get warm. New homes are also fitted with modern doors and windows, making them a harder target for burglars.

 

Surprise expenses

You may be surprised to learn that the cost of upgrading an older property to bring it up to the same specification as a new build home is just under £45,000.

This covers the cost of everything from rewiring, fitting a modern kitchen, adding double glazed windows and all the other upgrades required to bring it up to the standard of a modern, newly constructed property.

Not only does a period property carry the risk of additional spending, but it does not carry the peace of mind of a new home. New build homes come with an NHBC 10 year Buildmark Warranty, providing a 10-year structural guarantee and a two-year warranty on fixtures and fittings. This means that in the rare event something does go wrong, the homeowner will not be left out of pocket. This provides real peace of mind for a new buyer.

Personal style  

Many buyers want a period property because they think it will have extra character. They want a home that reflects their own individuality and personality. A lot of people think they have to look for an older building to get that uniqueness.

However, with a newly built home from David Wilson, you have a stylish, well-designed property. Not only that but you can choose your fixtures and fittings before you move in. This ensures your new home has your own personal touch applied before you move in.

 

Freedom to renovate 

Period properties can be beautiful, appealing and full of historic character, but often they come with restrictions. For example, if it’s a listed building then it may be difficult to make changes to the property. Simple changes such as altering the room layout or fitting more efficient windows will require permission from the council.

With a newly built David Wilson home, you know the building is already fitted to the highest standards, and you can help shape the design by choosing fixtures and fittings to suit your tastes. This gives buyers real freedom to choose and tailor the home of their dreams.

If you are looking for your dream new build home ready to make your own, then discover a David Wilson development near you. We have hundreds of sites available including developments in Hertfordshire, Cheshire, Wetherby & Berkshire.