Anyone had problems buying from Barratt Homes?

Woody's_Girl

We're having a nightmare trying to buy a new build, we've negotiated a deal paying £27k under the asking price but the developer has worded the paperwork in such a way that they're showing all the figures, discount etc. in the blurb before the last figure but showing the last figure at the full asking price, not the price we've agreed. Our FA is saying no lender will agree to a discount more than 10%, it's basically inflating figures but Developer says our FA knows nothing, if we use their FA they know exactly how to put the figures through and we'll get a mortgage.

We want to stick with our own FA but are we ever going to get this flippin new build bought? Developer is refusing to change the paperwork.

clutton_2

the FSA is investigating this practice ... if they wont let you use your own professionals i would withdraw....

Woody's_Girl

After reading some of the stuff on here it's very tempting to do just that, i'd rather lose my deposit of £500 than a lot more later down the line. They're not saying we can't use our own FA but they're not making his life easy.

I've also gone with their recommended Solicitor who I have instructed but I haven't signed their paperwork yet to say i'll pay because their prices are incorrect. Do you think i'd be able to 'sack' them without it costing me anything? Their paperwork says if we don't sell then we'll be liable for any disbursements they've incurred but we're only just at the start of the process and like I say, I haven't signed to agree it with them yet.

Fire_Fox

Their recommended solicitor is never going to be completely impartial, even if it costs you a modest amount cancel the instruction. You may find out in years to come that you have been advised poorly and it may cost you thousands. Ditto their financial advisor - ask for the paperwork to simply state what you have agreed to pay or say you won't be able to proceed (but won't pull out either IYSWIM). You hold all the cards here as buyers are not two a penny any more: communicate in writing and do not chase them for a response, let them think they have lost you.

Brandnewbuyers

Don't use their people!! We did, now we're in a complete mess because a delayed build and a under valuation means we're £10k short of the asking price. Our solicitor wont do anything because he's in their pocket and our FA is nothing to write home about either. Barratt forced these people on us saying they'd put up the price of the house if we didn't use them. Now we have no help and nowhere to turn. Use people who will be on your side even if you incur more costs. It'll be worth it when Barratts can't screw you over!