Buying a House: What You Need to Know Before You Sign
Thinking about buying a home? It feels huge, and the paperwork can be scary. The good news is you don’t have to learn everything overnight. Below we break down the biggest decisions, hidden costs, and warning signs that can save you time and money.
Build or Buy – Which Is Cheaper in 2025?
If you’re torn between buying an existing home and building a new one, start with the numbers. A recent UK study shows a new build can cost anywhere from £1,200 to £2,000 per square metre, while an older property might sit around £1,500 per square metre after factoring in renovation.
But it’s not just the price per metre. New builds often include warranties, modern insulation and a tidy layout, which cuts later repair bills. Older homes may need new plumbing, wiring or roof work – those costs add up fast. Use a simple spreadsheet: list purchase price, expected renovation, and ongoing running costs. The option with the lower total over five years usually wins.
Red Flags: Foundations, Insurance and Planning
Foundations are the first thing most buyers overlook. A hair‑line crack might be harmless, but a crack wider than 3 mm can signal movement. Look for stairs that don’t feel level or doors that stick – they’re early hints of a shifting base.
Before you buy, ask the seller for a recent structural survey. If the report mentions subsidence or foundation repair, check whether the homeowner’s insurance covers those issues. Many policies exclude foundation damage unless it’s caused by an insured event, like a burst pipe.
Planning permission is another hidden hurdle. You can extend a house without full permission under the UK’s Permitted Development rules, but there are limits on height, size and proximity to neighbours. If the seller mentions an extension that looks larger than allowed, you could be stuck with an illegal structure that’s hard to sell later.
Don’t forget the mortgage side. Lenders will usually ask for a valuation and may refuse to finance a property with known foundation problems. Getting a clean report improves your chances of a better interest rate.
Finally, think about the neighbourhood. Check local council plans – a new road or commercial development can change your view, noise level, and even future resale value. A quick look at the council’s website or a chat with neighbours can reveal upcoming changes.
Putting these steps together gives you a clear road map: compare build‑vs‑buy costs, get a solid foundation survey, confirm insurance coverage, and verify planning compliance. Follow the checklist, and you’ll walk into a house feeling confident instead of nervous.
