The UK is seeing a rising demand for homes across every region. While developers are attempting to satisfy this market by constructing new properties, many potential home buyers have expressed a preference for used developments. An article published by The Independent showed that the price of new-build homes continues to spike upwards, which puts off some potential buyers. The cost of a new-build home shot up 25.4% annually to £367,219 in November 2021, compared to an annual rise of 8.6% for existing homes.
There are also certain stigmas surrounding newer developments, as some believe they are inferior in build quality compared to older houses or that they’re too expensive for little reason. This further impacts the housing landscape, making it difficult for new builds to shine on their own merits. With this, we highlight the benefits of newer developments by addressing some popular stigmas directed at modern homes.
“New developments have poor quality build”
The idea that newer houses are built poorly is often used to discredit the kind of materials used in constructing these houses, just because they don’t use stone or brick, which are commonly found in older properties. On the contrary, newer developments are often built with concrete and concrete blocks, which are sturdy on their own—even if they don’t possess the same rustic charm.
Furthermore, old houses require a lot of maintenance and retrofitting to improve fixtures, water pipes, and the deterioration of certain materials within the building. The cost for renovations varies on the home and the area it’s situated in, but data from The Guardian showed that a house assessment alone can cost £550. On the other hand, newer houses do not require the same maintenance and some developers even throw in incentives like upgrading fixtures and fittings to suit what you’re looking for in a home.
“Having the latest technology adds nothing special”
Another way new houses are stigmatised is the notion that the technology ingrained in these structures is only a novel feature. However, this new technology is growing popular, since it helps houses become more energy-efficient in the long run.
For newer houses, having the right technology makes it easier to use less energy which can contribute to global warming. This is why understanding smart home technology is important since they use modern devices that can make it easier to regulate energy use. For example, Google Home can connect to your home system and adjust the heating, flick light switches, and other commands that can conserve energy. This is aligned with the goal of around 197 countries to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Additionally, smart home technology can amplify
inclusivity and make it easier to stay connected, since these devices were made with convenience in mind.
“Older houses just have the character that new ones don’t”
While it is true that older houses have a certain appeal that comes with their storied look, newer properties offer personalisation options that make it easier to decorate your home according to your preferences. New houses are a blank slate that you can take advantage of in order to create your ideal home. With this, new home builders should know how to film and document the new developments properly to be engaging.
Besides supplying the right information about the location, parameters, and make of a new house, rich media is also vital in generating interest. Videos should show the space properly to help potential tenants and buyers imagine themselves living there and adding a ‘lifestyle’ theme is becoming a popular choice. Likewise, 360s can provide an engaging experience that is always available and which resonates with the target audience.
If you’re having challenges in properly showcasing the beauty and character of your new homes then we will be happy to talk through your options.
Guest Author: Rosemary Jermaine