InBath: Summer 2017

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Kersfield's Walcot Yard development

'Following on from the result on the 8th June, we anticipated a similar (perhaps to a lesser degree) trend, but in fact appetite for mortgages remains strong. We expect to endure a bumpy ride, but for us at least, it has absolutely been business as usual.' www.onlinemortgageadvisor.co.uk A similar outlook, post general election, has been predicted by some of the countries leading home builders. Stephen Stone is the chief executive of home builder Crest Nicholson:'The outcome of the UK General Election may introduce some uncertainty in the short term but we expect the new build housing market to remain robust'. 'Strong levels of employment, low interest rates and good mortgage access - including through the Help to Buy Scheme - should all contribute to a sustainable new build housing market.' continues Mr Stone. One of the most telling aspects of the recent General Election vote was that 72% of 18-24 year olds turned out to vote on June 8th, up from 66% in 2015, with the vast majority backing Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour. There is no doubt that young people priced out of the housing market was a key reason they turned out in droves to back Labour. As mentioned previously, the policy of the opposition is to help those priced out of the housing market and help them get on the property ladder. If there are positives to come out of the recent vote, then Politicians will have to consider the needs of the young more than they have in the past which could mean more help for first-time buyers. We may well see an extension of the Help to Buy Scheme so that it covers older properties as well as new build, dealing with affordability issues and more help on stamp duty. One thing is clear, despite continued instability, all parties realise the need for greater housing stock with an empahsis on those previously priced out of the housing market.

Benefits of buying a new build property Deciding whether to buy a new or old property is a question faced by most house hunters. Although the idea of a home that has character or period charm may well appeal, there are some major benefits from investing your money into a new build. Here are just a few for you to consider.

see why so many people feel that buying a new home, particularly with all the help that builders can provide, was their best move ever. Most house builders price their homes to sell swiftly, particularly in these competitive times. So keen prices, generous incentives and help with moving costs provide unbeatable value for money.

Choice of appliances, fixtures and fittings

Low Maintenance and safety

As well as being fresh, bright and clean, a new home is untouched by previous owners. Many developers will offer you the opportunity to chose your own appliances, fixtures and fittings creating a blank canvass on which to stamp your own style and personality. Many home builders will also offer a bespoke service to choose decorations, fixtures and fittings or extra items at an additional cost. This can include flooring, interior design or even garden landscape service.

The latest in buildings regulations

The quality of house building construction has grown significantly in recent years with almost 90% of home buyers declaring themselves satisfied with their new homes in the most recent industry survey. Many house builders also provide a comprehensive customer-care service and added peace of mind is provided by the 10 year warranty issued by organisations such as the National House-Building Council.

New homes are built to a much higher spec than the majority of older homes so you get more for your money. They have central heating, doubleglazing and high standards of roof, floor and wall insulation all included in the price. Standard features also usually include fitted kitchens with integrated appliances and stylish bathrooms and cloakrooms, many en-suite. New homes are also safer and more secure than older homes. Fire Safety is helped by the use of smoke alarms, fire doors and fire retardent materials. New homes will also be fitted with safety locks, burglar alarms and security lights as standard.

Environmentally Friendly

Today’s new homes are built to the latest environmental standards, so they are not only better for the planet but cheaper to run. They are much more energy efficient and generate 60% less carbon dioxide emissions than older homes. This can reduce utility bills by more than £500 a year.

Many house builders also provide a comprehensive customer-care service and added peace of mind is provided by the 10 year warranty issued by organisations such as the National House-Building Council. Value for money

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments that you will make in life, therefore, make sure you don't overstretch your finances or speculate on short term price rises. Of course, house prices can go up or down but it’s easy to

In recent years, the region has seen an increase in new builds, especially around the city of Bath. As the emphasis from government is to build and offer a variety of housing stock, we take an indepth look at some of those sites and what they have to offer.

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