New build is the new way to buy in Cheshire

Experts are warning homebuyers in Cheshire to carefully consider the full running costs of owning their dream property as research shows that buyers could save more that £34,000 by selecting a new-build rather than a second hand home.
Statistics show that new homes offer a greater amount of space efficiency than second hand properties – meaning it takes longer to out-grow a new build home. In fact in an average £200,000 second-hand home, a massive 17 per cent of the space often goes unused – equating to around £34,000*.
According to housebuilder Morris – the developer behind The Cross development, off Old Mill Road- new build properties are built with energy efficiency in mind so are much cheaper to run. Simple things like double glazing and cavity wall insulation, that come as standard in new builds, could save homeowners as much as £556* a year on energy bills and cut carbon emissions by a massive 60% - the same as driving 10,000 miles less a year.
Chris Minshall, regional sales director for Morris, said “Feedback from our customers shows that the prospect of moving to a home specifically designed for modern living which can save them money is simply too compelling.
“Usually, new homes offer superior quality, lower maintenance costs, better use of living accommodation, a more sustainable construction and the luxury of having a blank canvas you can stamp your own personality on from day one. Plus, the process of buying a home direct from a housebuilder can be far simpler and more straightforward.”
SIX-STEP GUIDE TO NEW HOME SATISFACTION
To coincide with New Homes Month this September, Morris has put together a simple six-step check list for buying a new-build property in your area.
•Quality – Look into whether the housebuilder has a good national or local reputation. The Home Builder’s Federation’s (HBF) New Home Customer Satisfaction Survey is a good indication of how housebuilders fare in the industry. Morris achieved a full five star rating in the survey – one of the few housebuilders in the region to do so.
•Personal Service – The care you receive from the housebuilder is as important as the house you’re buying to ensure your move is as smooth as possible. Morris’ Guardian Angel scheme means a board-level director will personally check every single new property before handing the keys over to its new owner.
•Award wins – Check to see whether the development site manager has won any awards for quality, which will help you see how much care has been taken over your home. For example, the NHBC has its own Pride in the Job awards which were introduced to raise standards across the industry. It recognises excellent site management and individuals who have helped create a successful housing development of high standards.
•Longevity – You don’t want a home that will become a money pit or fall apart the minute you step through the door. Morris is registered with the National House Building Council (NHBC), which is the industry’s standard setting body for quality. Any new home registered with the NHBC benefits from a 10-year warranty, giving you piece of mind if anything should go wrong.
•Stock properties. Looking for a speedy move? Ask whether your housebuilder has any stock properties available. These properties, which are already fully built, will be ready to move into straight away. Many housebuilders also have part-exchange schemes on offer, which cut out the dreaded property chain as well as removing the need to pay estate agency fees
•Helping hand – Don’t forget to look out for added offers that help cut the costs of moving. Whether you are a first time buyer or a growing family, Morris offer a range of tailor-made schemes that can help make your move hassle-free.
Morris currently has a range of two, three and four bedroom properties at The Cross development starting from just £152,750.
For more information on Morris’ The Cross development visit the sales office, open Thursday to Monday from 10.30am to 5.30pm, Old Mill Road, Sandbach, CW11 4BX.
* New Homes Marketing Board report.