Real Estate

Buying a new build property certainly has its advantages, with the first advantage being higher energy efficiency. Since these homes are newer in nature, they are usually equipped with energy-efficient appliances, smart technology and digital thermostats all of which can eventually reduce energy bills drastically. In fact, post the Covid-19 pandemic, the demand for energy-efficient homes has increased, and these new build homes are environmentally friendly which is what makes them so popular among new buyers and first-time buyers, according to estate agents in Doncaster. But, how much money can you really save on energy bills with a new build home in the UK? This is what the experts have to say. 

According to a report by the Home Builders Federation (HFB), due to the Government’s Energy Price Guarantee scheme that is all set to increase in April 2023, homeowners could save a whopping £3,100 annually on a new build home in the UK. Compare this to an average saving of a second-hand home, and new build owners can save around £260 per month. With that being said, the HBF also reported that approximately 85 per cent of all new build homes in the UK have been given an A-B Energy Performance Certificate for energy-efficiency rating whereas only around 4 per cent of existing homes have the same energy-efficient rating. That means almost 8 out of every 10 new build homes will have this A-B Energy Performance Certificate, whereas only 4 out of every 100 existing properties will have the same rating. 

As per Stewart Baseley, the executive chairman of HBF, the energy crisis in the UK is distinctly highlighting the relationship between energy-efficient homes and cost savings. Energy-efficient homes and environmentally friendly homes are a big priority for homeowners, investors and first-time buyers, and this demand will continue to rise. For one, the financial savings on these new build energy-efficient homes explain the increasing demand. With the cost of living crisis in the UK economy, homeowners and buyers are looking to benefit and save now and in the future.  

So, what makes new build homes so energy efficient? For one, these homes are built with energy-efficient heating systems, water-efficient appliances and fittings and high-quality insulation. What’s more, most of these new build homes come with air pressure testing which is used to lock in the heat along with double-glazed windows and high-specification doors to trap the warmth. Not only do these energy-efficient fittings reduce energy bills, but they also prove to be a much green choice in the long term. According to another report by the HBP, new build homes emit around 1.4 tonnes of carbon every year whereas existing properties emit over 3.6 tonnes of carbon every year, making the difference more than double.

As per the government data, new build homes on average use just around 103kWh/m2 worth of energy whereas existing homes and older properties use around 294kWh/M2 worth of energy, or more. If we use these figures, then a new build homeowner will have to spend around £443 on energy bills whereas an older homeowner will have to spend over £1,072 on energy bills. If we break this up, new build homeowners will probably have to pay £276 for heating, around £108 for hot water and a mere £60 for lighting and electricity. This means new build homeowners could save over £600 a year, which could easily cover a month’s mortgage payments or any other monthly expenses. 

Experts believe that new build homes are certainly more energy-efficient than existing homes, which is beneficial to the homeowner as well as to the environment. While homeowners are having hundreds and hundreds of pounds every year on energy bills, their green choices are also allowing the environment to be better. Also, since energy bills in the UK are expected to rise with the ongoing inflation, new build homeowners and households will reap the benefits of their greener choices now and in the future. And, as builders and developers aim for more energy-efficient homes in the future, it is safe to say that the new build industry will pave the way for a better tomorrow. In conclusion, it is safe to say that new build homeowners can save hundreds of pounds annually on their energy bills which is the need of the hour with the expected rise in cost of living prices.

The importance of saving for a down payment and budgeting for homeownership in 2023 cannot be overstated. With the current economic uncertainty, it is increasingly important for prospective homeowners to plan and save for their future. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or an experienced homeowner, there are several things you should consider when saving for and budgeting for homeownership in 2023. 

This includes understanding the current market conditions, researching the cost of homeownership, budgeting for associated costs such as taxes, insurance and maintenance, and planning for the future. By doing this, you will be better prepared to make the right decisions for your future and ensure that you are on the path to successful homeownership.

The UK housing market is currently in a state of flux. Property prices have increased significantly over the past few years, and there has been a significant increase in demand for rental properties. This has made it increasingly difficult for prospective homeowners to save for a down payment and budget for homeownership. However, with the right planning and preparation, it is still possible to save for a down payment and budget for homeownership in 2023. You can get professional help from the estate agents in Carlisle to buy the right property. 

Importance of Saving for a Down Payment 

A down payment is a large, upfront payment often required when purchasing a home. Saving for a down payment can help reduce the amount of money that needs to be borrowed, which could result in a lower interest rate on the home loan. Additionally, having a larger down payment can make you a more attractive borrower to lenders, as it will demonstrate your financial responsibility and stability. 

Saving for a down payment is an important part of the home-buying process. A down payment helps to demonstrate to lenders that you are financially responsible and capable of making monthly mortgage payments. It also reduces the amount of money you need to borrow, which can help to lower your interest rate and overall loan costs. A down payment can also help you avoid paying for private mortgage insurance, which can add to your monthly expenses.

Saving for a down payment and budgeting for homeownership is essential for anyone purchasing a home. Rising house prices, increased competition from buyers, and the impact of Brexit all make saving for a down payment and budgeting for homeownership in the UK in 2023 more important than ever.

Importance of Budgeting for Homeownership 

Budgeting for homeownership is important because it helps you plan for the costs of owning a home and ensures you are financially prepared for the long-term commitment. When budgeting for homeownership, you should consider the upfront costs associated with purchasing a home and the ongoing costs associated with maintaining a home. 

Upfront costs include the down payment, closing costs, and other fees associated with purchasing a home. Ongoing costs include mortgage payments, property taxes, maintenance, and insurance. Establishing a budget and sticking to it can help ensure that you can afford the costs associated with homeownership and avoid potential financial hardship.

Finally, the impact of Brexit on homeownership in the UK must also be considered. With the UK leaving the European Union, the economic and political implications remain unknown. Mortgage rates could fluctuate, making it difficult for potential buyers to qualify for a loan. There could also be changes to the housing market, making it more difficult for buyers to find a suitable property. In addition, the market could become more competitive, with buyers competing for limited properties.

Wrapping Up 

Potential buyers must begin saving for a down payment and budgeting for homeownership in the UK. With the uncertain economic climate, it is important to ensure buyers are financially able to make a larger down payment if necessary. Additionally, budgeting for the various costs associated with homeownership is important, such as closing costs, maintenance, and property taxes. By setting a budget and saving in advance, potential buyers can increase their chances of purchasing a home in 2023.