Buying new is as safe as houses

Buying new not only means your home is considered more secure, but according to Bryant Homes, you can save around 25%* on your home insurance premiums as a result.

The national homebuilder has compared like for like quotes for old and new properties in Essex and found that the cost is significantly lower for a new build property.

New homes are designed to be as secure as possible and offer features such as key-operated window locks and thief-resistant external doors as standard.

Tina Dedman, Regional Sales and Marketing Director for Bryant Homes, comments: "With the clocks due to go back next month and darker evenings just around the corner, it's the right time to start thinking about your home security. Buying a new Bryant Homes property not only provides that extra level of confidence but it's also reflected in lower insurance premiums, helping home owners beat the credit crunch. With the additional benefits of owning a new home, such as decreased fuel bills and DIY costs, coupled with the range of incentives and schemes currently available, you can make some considerable reductions to your outgoings."

For further information on the range of properties currently being offered by Bryant Homes across East London, visit Bryant.co.uk.

Stylish and secure new homes are available from Bryant Homes at its developments across the region which can be found as follows:

ESSEX
Churchill Gate, Colchester
Cook's Shipyard, Wivenhoe
White Street, Great Dunmow

If you're looking for ways to improve your home security, Bryant Homes has prepared a simple checklist:

* Lock windows and keep the keys out of sight in a safe place.
* Ensure external doors are secure and consider getting a chain or door viewer fitted.
* Keep your house and car keys safe and away from doors and windows and never leave a spare key in a convenient hiding place as it will be easily found.
* High-efficiency, low energy lighting can put off thieves, particularly dusk to dawn or movement activated models.
* Fit a burglar alarm, but make sure it is installed properly and works.
* Keep your garage and garden shed locked with proper security locks, and keep any tools secure and out of sight.
* Install strong fencing or gates and consider gravel as they act as a deterrent to thieves.
* Trim back any plants or hedges that a burglar could hide behind.
* Make sure you have up-to-date insurance.
* Don't leave your curtains closed during the daytime.
* Use timer switches to turn on lights, radios and other appliances when you're out.
* Consider joining a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme at neighbourhoodwatch.uk.com.

*Home insurance price comparison based on like for like quotes for a 1960 and 2005 three bedroom, semi-detached property on moneysupermarket.com.