Buying your first home can be a horrifically daunting process, with many ways you can be ripped off or end up in with a house that barely functions – particularly when purchasing a new build.
But TikToker @Dashapetrik1533 explained what she learned after purchasing her own first new-build home with her partner – with the most important rule being to actually have fun.
Posting her experience on the app, Dasha started by saying its crucial to research the developer, including checking reviews, feedback and photos. One commenter added this was particularly important, given they had bought a new-build only to discover the developer was on BBC’s “Watchdog”.
Secondly, she advised to “negotiate a deal”, adding: “Whether it’s price, white goods or other perks – push for more!”
She also said to get a professional snagger involved – an expert who can check the house for any potential “snags” or faults with it.
It was also important to pick “your own mortgage advisor and solicitor,” she said. While it may be tempting to take the easy way out and simply accept the developer’s choice, this could lead to unnecessary expenditure.
Responding to a comment questioning this advice, Dasha said: “A lot of them work for the developer and aren’t independent so won’t bother finding you a good deal or have your best interests at heart.”
But another way to make sure you get the perfect house for you was a bit of customisation to make up for the fact it was a new build.
Dasha advised to “add value to it if you can”. She said this could “be in the form of an extension, conservatory, boarding the loft, expensive flooring.” The reason for this was that due to many new homes following a standardised structured, “the builds are normally quite basic.”
But the last piece of advice was arguably the most important one if you’re lucking enough to sign that deposit – “enjoy it!”
