First Time Buyer: Advice on making an offer on a new build

cactusdust

Hello all,

Just after a bit of advice. I am interested in buying a new build property from a developer. The development is coming to it's end and the place I'm interested in buying is currently being used as the showroom office/staff area/toilets. It's on the market for £160,000.

Whilst sounding vague as not to reveal location... 2 bed, garage, 1 ensuite, 1 main bathroom with a kitchen which opens up to a combo living room/dining room. Quite a bit of storage space.

I am hoping that I may be able to put an offer down on the place below their list price. Have no experience in this field so wondering if anyone could help out or has experience of making offers on new builds.

Thanks in advance!

Little_Miss_Shopaholic

Hi,

I think it depends on the developer, where in the country it is and how many people are interested in it as to whether they accept an offer below the asking price or not. The developer I am buying from accepted a very small amount off (less than 1% of the asking price) and that took a lot of negotiating. They have no issue selling their houses so don't need to take offers or offer incentives, your developer may be different.

You will omly know by asking. Are you in a good position? If so try and use that in your favour, just be prepared they may say no.

Good luck

kingstreet

Usually, a showhome is sold "as seen" which means you will get the property with several upgrades.

Builders are less likely to accept a low offer for such property, although they may be willing to negotiate on the last property on a site.

kinger101

There's no harming in trying to get a reduction. As Kingstreet suggests, if it's the last property on the site, they may be keen to move sales staff off etc.

stator

Get your agreement in principle from a mortgage lender first and make it clear that as a FTB you are willing to complete quickly. You might be lucky if they don't need the show home anymore they might just want to get rid of it quickly. I wouldn't expect a big discount though.

MadelinesMum

I negotiated a £10k discount, carpets and turf. It was supposed to be £185k. TBH the carpets have not lasted well and the turf was not on perfectly level ground. You will probably find, being the show home, that it will have extras and good quality appliances. Also, on our estate it had a lovely iron fence which was removed and in the car park they managed to squeeze in three houses.
Good luck

Mobeer

Make sure you look like a serious buyer. Follow the advice from Stator. Sales staff will put a lot more effort into visitors who appear like genuine buyers rather than visitors who are just there to have a look around.