Out with the old: Are modern homes a better alternative?

Scottish Property Finders Garrington discuss the factors that should be considered when comparing modern properties with their older counterparts

With rising energy costs homebuyers could be forgiven for questioning whether it is sensible to buy an older house, which can be less energy efficient, and have greater maintenance responsibilities.

Whether you’re considering a modern home, a period property or potentially building your own new home, here are a couple of points you might want to consider, amongst other things.

Should you buy a modern home?

It is true that a well-built new home accompanied by the appropriate building guarantees will typically cost less to maintain and run, particularly in the early years after construction. This said, it’s incredibly important when buying a modem property not to be lulled into believing you do not need to pay careful attention to the details of the Home Report – not all modern homes are built to high standards.

If you prefer period properties

For many people the idea of living in a modern property, however prudent this may appear, is unappealing. The good news is that a period property that has been regularly and meticulously maintained over the years, or one that has been renovated to a high standard, does not have to cost the earth to keep warm and dry.

The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a good place to start when considering running costs and maintenance. It can sometimes be sensible to ask the selling agent to provide information of current running costs. Likewise, when viewing a property, look out for plug-in heaters, check whether the heating is on high during the viewing and note if there are signs of condensation on the windowpanes, as these may give some clues about what it would be like to live there.

Build your own home

With homes across much of rural Scotland in short supply it is increasingly popular for house hunters to explore the benefits of purchasing a plot of land and building a modern home from scratch.

Building your own home comes with a unique set of considerations and will require the involvement of several professionals to ensure you are able to achieve the desired result.

Guidance and assurance when buying a home

Modern, newly built, and older period homes each have unique factors to look out for when seriously considering moving forward with a purchase. Engaging the help of a professional property finder can help homebuyers assess all the variables and choose a property, or plot, that delivers on both a budgetary and personal basis.

If you would like to learn more about how a Property Finder can support you in all matters relating to property, please contact Garrington for a no obligation initial discussion.