Buying a new build house ‘off the plan’ rather than an existing house means that as the homeowner of a new build, you will be able to enjoy a number of considerable benefits. These include:
A lower deposit
Currently the Reserve Bank’s Loan-to-Value (LVR) requirements are lower for new build homes, which means if you’re an owner/occupier, you generally only need a 10 % deposit (rather than a 20 % deposit). This can be a considerable, game-changing advantage as a first home buyer.
More time to save
A smaller deposit is often required by the banks for a new build off the plan purchase, than for an existing home. This leaves you more time to save while your new home is being built, before you need to begin paying your mortgage upon build completion. Be aware that some new home builders may require progress payments during the build timeframe.
New materials and build standards
New homes are designed and built to meet the government’s building code and New Zealand Healthy Homes standards, which have a higher standard than many existing homes. New building materials, techniques, fixtures and fittings, and technologies, are just a few of the benefits. When buying an existing property, there is the added risk of researching and understanding aspects including weather tightness, code of compliance, and insulation standards, which could mean additional remedial or renovation costs in the long run.
A healthy home
A new home is built to a higher build standard which means a warmer, drier home. Thanks to full insulation and double glazing, these home are more cost effective to heat or to cool due to energy efficiency, keeping your power costs down. A warm and dry home means a healthier environment to live in, particularly for those with asthma and allergies.
Lower that water bill
New homes that have built in water tank systems utilise roof water for non-drinking purposes such as toilet flushing, laundry, and outdoor taps. It provides the opportunity to reduce waste and help with water-saving efforts by reducing reliance on Auckland’s water supply. This translates to savings on your monthly water bill.
Warranties and guarantees
New build homes will generally have warranties and guarantees for the products and components, which will cover you in the unlikely event of something going wrong with the integrity of the building.
Low maintenance benefits
Ongoing maintenance requirements are a key consideration for home buyers. In an existing or older home, you may need to consider maintenance, repairs, renovations, or DIY. A new home means you are unlikely to need to complete larger one-off repairs and won’t be inheriting pre-existing issues, which can make a significant difference when weighing up property options.
Legal information
Universal Homes is not a financial adviser. The material published in this document is of general nature only, and has been provided as a general information service by Universal Homes solely for information purposes for use by prospective property purchasers and/or investors. This document is not intended, nor capable of being construed as, financial, legal or investment advice or advice on any specific problem or situation. Because the information is general in nature, it has been prepared without taking into account any person’s individual objectives, financial situation or particular needs and may not be relevant to individual circumstances. Before purchasing a property or making any investment, borrowing, insurance or financial planning decisions, you should consult a professional adviser and seek your own investment, accounting, financial, legal, tax and other professional advice. Professional advisers can help vou decide whether your decision is appropriate for you. While every care has been taken to supply accurate information, errors and omissions may occur and no representation or warranty is made as to the accuracy, completeness, reliability, adequacy or reasonableness of the information. Accordingly, Universal Homes accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss caused as a result of any person relying on the information supplied.
