Somerset house hunters go off-plan

Off-plan buying is back in vogue in Somerset as housing stock levels hit their lowest level for years, according to leading homebuilder Barratt.

The re-emergence of off-plan purchasers – who decide to buy a home before construction has started – provides further evidence that the Somerset housing market has stabilised after the downturn in 2007 and 2008.

It has been usual practice for developers to sell the first homes on any development off-plan at the lowest prices to encourage sales and get an early return on investment. Then, as the development takes shape, prices are increased.

“Off-plan buyers have always been able to secure extremely competitive deals because all housebuilders like to make some sales before construction begins,” said Barratt sales director Caroline Hill.

“It has a number of advantages for buyers who can secure the home they want on the plot of their choice. Buying off-plan with a major developer such as Barratt means you can rest assured that everything is in place to ensure that your property will be completed to a high standard.”

Off-plan purchasers have the advantage of being able to personalise their new home from the outset by determining the colour schemes of kitchens, bathrooms and tiles. They also enjoy all the benefits traditionally associated with new homes – minimal maintenance, fresh décor, good insulation, the latest double glazing and energy efficient central heating.

“Barratt produces detailed site plans to help select your plot from the development layout,” added Caroline. “And advances in technical drawings, computer generated images and even virtual tours make visualising your home easier than ever before.’’

Off-plan homes currently available from Barratt in Somerset include the newly opened Cades Farm in Wellington where Barratt is building three, four and five bedroom homes. Buyers can also purchase off-plan at Stockmoor Parade in North Petherton and at the Old Cider Works in Norton Fitzwarren.

For further details see barratthomes.co.uk/cadesfarm.