The Truth About New Build Homes: Busting the Top 5 Myths
Thinking of buying a new build home? There’s lots of advice out there, and it’s easy to get caught up in the confusion. Don’t worry, we’ve got the facts to help you make an informed decision! We’re busting five of the biggest new build myths so you can make your move with confidence.
Myth 1: New builds are more expensive than older homes
Is buying a new build home really more expensive? Let’s find out. New build properties can come with a premium, but the benefits of buying a new build home far outweigh the cons.
With a new build property, you’re paying for modern and contemporary designs along with brand-new fixtures and fittings and the latest in technology. Buyers of new build homes can often take advantage of additional incentives that can save you thousands too, such as:
- Stamp duty paid
- Deposit contributions
- Upgrades or extras included
- Part-exchange options
Another huge money-saving plus point is the energy efficiency of a new build home, but just how energy efficient are new builds? Well, thanks to modern build techniques, a new build property will have lower running costs, reduced carbon emissions, and higher EPC ratings, which will save you heaps of cash in the long run.
Research carried out by the Home Builders Federation has found that lighting, heating, and hot water costs are 50% cheaper in a new build. New builds are doing their bit for the environment too, with the average house emitting 67% less carbon than older houses.
Myth 2: New builds are poor quality
Are new builds built to high standards? Absolutely!
New build homes are built to modern standards and must meet strict building regulations. Everything in a new build is brand new, so you won’t find problems with old wiring, heating systems, or flooring. There’ll be no wear and tear, and no dated décor! You’ll also have better insulation and fire safety features along with a 10-year structural warranty from the NHBC.
Want to get a feel for our layouts and specification? Visit one of our developments or speak to our team to learn more.
Myth 3: New builds have no personality
Do new builds lack character? Not at all!
Buying a new build home is the perfect blank canvas to put your own stamp on and give its own unique personality. One of the key benefits of buying a new build home is the opportunity to customise certain features before you move in. If you buy off-plan or early in the build stage, you can choose your kitchen, flooring, tiles, and finishes.
At Allison Homes, we also offer upgrade options that include premium appliances, fitted wardrobes, integrated storage solutions, and even practical additions like garden turf or upgraded flooring.
Once you’ve moved into your home, then the real fun can begin – turning your house into a home. You have the freedom to inject individuality and style to every room with furniture, textiles and accessories, colours, and lighting – all adding character to a new build property.
The creative possibilities are endless. There’s lots of open-plan living in new build properties too, so your home will have lots of space, light, and flexibility. Check out this blog for tips and advice on how to personalise a new build home.
At Allison Homes, we offer a high standard specification where buyers can choose from a stunning selection of contemporary and classic kitchen styles, all complemented by the latest appliances, along with sophisticated bathrooms, premium fixtures, elegant lighting, and quality flooring throughout the home.
Myth 4: You’ll be stuck on a building site for years
Will you be surrounded by construction? Not always. Whilst you may be living next to ongoing construction on a new build estate, some phases are completed before others begin, and many developments have landscaped areas ready from the start.
There’s a real community feel in new build housing estates, and with lots of people moving in at the same time, it’s a chance to make new friends and be part of a new thoughtfully planned area. New build developments are usually designed with families in mind, and many include modern features and new amenities, including:
- Green spaces and parks
- Playgrounds and walking routes
- Shops, schools, and healthcare provision
Depending on the stage at which you purchase your home, there may be some ongoing construction activity as the development progresses. However, you’ll be kept fully informed every step of the way, so you know exactly what to expect.
Myth 5: You don’t pay stamp duty on a new build
Does everyone pay stamp duty? Yes, mostly, but there are some exemptions! Unless you’re a first-time buyer under the threshold, or you are offered it as an incentive, stamp duty still applies when buying a new build home, just like it does with older homes. However, the amount you pay depends on several factors, including the purchase price, whether you’re a first-time buyer, and if you already own property.
Always check with your solicitor what your obligation is. Stamp duty must be paid within 14 days of completion, and your solicitor will handle everything for you. What are new stamp duty rules? Here’s a breakdown of the new stamp duty rules as of April 2025:
For First-Time Buyers
You don’t pay any stamp duty on homes up to £300,000. If the property is between £300,001 and £500,000, you’ll pay 5% on the portion above £300,000. If it’s over £500,000, you won’t qualify for the first-time buyer relief and will follow the standard rates.
For Everyone Else
- Up to £125,000 – 0%
- £125,001 to £250,000 – 2%
- £250,001 to £925,000 – 5%
- £925,001 to £1.5 million – 10%
- Over £1.5 million – 12%
Higher Rates for Additional Properties
- Up to £125,000 – 5%
- £125,001 to £250,000 – 7%
- £250,001 to £925,000 – 10%
- £925,001 to £1.5 million – 15%
- Over £1.5 million – 17%
Learn more about UK Stamp Duty and Land Tax. Now that you’re armed with everything you need to know, why not take the next step? Explore our available plots, book a showhome viewing, or get in touch to chat with our sales team.
Allison Homes web article: 20th August 2025
