The popularity of new build homes is growing, with enquiries doubling in summer 2025. Debbie Clark examines why, and highlights the many benefits of purchasing a brand new home. For first time buyers, is buying new now a no-brainer?
There can be a strange snobbery around new build homes, particularly from the “they don’t build ‘em like they used to” generation, but recent data from Compare My Move shows a 120% increase in new build home purchase enquiries from June to August 2025, compared to the same period in 2024. This figure reflects an increase in overall enquiries, but also a higher share of buyers choosing new builds over preloved homes.
Dave Sayce, Co-founder and Managing Director of Compare My Move, suggests a number of reasons for this shift, “One of the biggest reasons more people are buying new build homes is that there are simply more of them on the market. In the year ending 31 March 2025, the number of completed new homes rose by 12%, while housing starts increased by 5%. With this boost in supply, the market is shifting towards buyers. And if the Government achieves its target of building 1.5 million homes by 2030, demand for new build properties is likely to keep rising.”
Research from Savills also indicates increased confidence in the new homes market, with its report suggesting that this is linked to a favourable mortgage market. The data suggests that, within the new build market specifically, buyers will see more favourable conditions; figures from the NHBC sentiment survey show net sales values adjusting downwards since the start of 2025.
A rise in sales incentives for new homes also reflects a more competitive market and “more reason for buyers to choose new build”. These have climbed to the highest reading in Savills’ survey since mid-2023, which is cause for optimism, according to George Cardale, Head of UK Residential Development Sales at Savills. He says, “For many buyers the increased availability of incentives helps provide the impetus to choose a new build home over options in the wider market.”
There is currently a whole host of schemes and incentives to encourage first time buyers to purchase a new build home, and there are many benefits to doing so.
Firstly, lower costs. It is hard to raise a deposit to buy your first home, so the promise of a low deposit is often what initially attracts first time buyers to new build homes. Some developers’ incentives will even cover the cost of your legal fees or Stamp Duty, and don’t be afraid to negotiate on the asking price either. The savings, however, continue well beyond your initial purchase. You are moving into a freshly decorated home, so there are no costly renovations to be done, and with the assurance of a 10-year warranty, any repair and maintenance costs are also minimal. Your appliances are likely all new and covered by extended warranties too. Furthermore, your energy bills will almost certainly be significantly lower than if you were to purchase an older property.
Another benefit to buying in a new development is the level of choice available. Whatever your specific criteria, be it the layout or plot position, you can pick your new home with this at the forefront. There are also fewer compromises to be made generally when you are buying a home built specifically with modern living in mind. Remember, the earlier you register your interest, the more options you have; if you buy off-plan, you may even be able to choose your fittings, including tiles, flooring and kitchen colours.
The process of buying a new build home is typically a lot smoother than buying on the resale market where, according to Quick Move Now’s latest data, over a quarter of sales fall through. Obviously, developers are incredibly unlikely to change their mind about selling, and they must also adhere to the House Builders Code of Conduct. No need for a pricey survey either. You will pay a reservation fee which holds the property – and price – for you. Do be aware, though, that developers typically like to exchange on sales as quickly as possible (often in just 28 days) so make sure you have everything ready on your side, including a solicitor who is aware of the developer’s terms.
Finally, a benefit that is hard to quantify, but impossible to ignore: the sense of community found in new build developments. Generally, buyers will be moving in around the same time and therefore share in the excitement of this exciting milestone. There may also be shared amenities, which can facilitate the building of neighbourly friendships, so you can enjoy getting to know the area in good company.
Homes Available on the market
PLUMSTEAD
Rockcliffe Square
From £89,625 – Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £358,500
L&Q is offering studio to three bedroom apartments at Rockcliffe Square, a development set on the site of the London South East Colleges’ (LSEC) Greenwich campus. Delivered in partnership with the College, the scheme will provide nearly 300 new homes, alongside a new campus for LSEC, scheduled to open next year. Homes feature fully integrated appliances, private outdoor spaces, and access to a resident-only landscaped communal podium. Located a short walk from three stations (Plumstead, Woolwich and Woolwich Arsenal), Rockcliffe Square is perfect for commuters, with Canary Wharf only seven minutes away and Liverpool Street just 14 minutes, via the Elizabeth Line.
lqhomes.com/rockcliffesquare
020 8189 0426
CAMBRIDGE
L&Q at Darwin Green
From £127,500 – Based on a 30% share of the full market value of £425,000
L&Q is offering two and three bedroom homes at this impressive new development which, once complete, will include open green spaces, a central park, two new schools, retail units, a community centre, library, health centre and sports facilities. Houses are complete with a fully inclusive specification, meaning premium appliances, fittings and fixtures are all included as standard. All properties benefit from a private outdoor space, bike storage and allocated parking. To encourage car-free travel, a network of leafy footpaths and cycle routes will also be established throughout the development.
lqhomes.com/darwingreen
0333 999 8387
MOULSECOOMB, BRIGHTON
Home X
From £88,250 – Based on a 25% share of the full market value of £353,00
Conveniently located within easy reach of Brighton’s seaside, Home X offers studio to three bedroom apartments through outright sale, with two bedroom apartments available through Shared Ownership. Homes here feature en suite bathrooms, open-plan living and dining areas, integrated appliances, and large private balconies. Once complete, development amenities will include co-working spaces, a supermarket and pharmacy. Moulsecoomb station is on the doorstep, providing fast rail services to East Sussex and beyond.
shnewhomes.co.uk/properties/home-x
0330 173 2391
First Time Buyer is an exciting bi-monthly glossy which takes a stylish and comprehensive look at all the options available, setting them out in an entertaining and informative way, and helping potential customers navigate their way through what is often a daunting and complex process. We dispel the myths, reinforce the facts and arm the reader with the tools necessary to make their homeownership dreams a reality.
