New Build Homes: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re thinking about a brand‑new house, you’re probably weighing a lot of questions – how much will it cost, how long will it take, and what pitfalls to avoid. This page gathers the most useful articles to help you answer those questions without getting lost in jargon.
Building a new home gives you control over design, layout, and the materials you use. You can add a bigger kitchen, extra bedrooms, or a conservatory that fits your garden. But that freedom comes with decisions about budgeting, planning permission, and structural integrity.
Cost Breakdown and Money‑Saving Tips
One of the first things people ask is whether building is cheaper than buying. A recent guide compares the average UK new‑build cost per square metre with the price of a comparable existing home. It shows that land, groundworks, and finishes can add up fast, but you can trim the budget by choosing standard sizes, limiting high‑spec finishes, and sourcing local materials.
Another article walks you through the 2025 price trends, so you know which materials are likely to rise and where you can lock in rates early. It even lists common budgeting mistakes – like underestimating site work or forgetting to budget for utility connections.
Planning, Foundations and Legal Basics
Before you draw up any plans, you need to know if your project needs planning permission. The UK has clear “permitted development” limits that let you extend or build a small house without a full application. Our extension guide explains the size limits, height rules, and how to avoid costly redesigns.
Foundation health is another must‑read topic. Cracks in a new build’s foundation can appear within weeks of occupation. One article explains how to measure crack width, what size is normal, and when to call a structural engineer. Another piece dives into the best cement mixes for solid, long‑lasting repairs, so you can spot early signs before they become expensive fixes.
Insurance coverage for foundation issues is also covered. Not all policies will pay for subsidence or settlement, and the terms can be vague. Knowing the fine print helps you protect your investment from day one.
Materials matter, too. The most durable houses use a combination of sturdy brick, quality concrete, and modern insulation. A guide on “most durable house materials” lists the top choices for weather‑proofing and longevity, helping you pick options that stay strong for decades.
Timeline expectations are realistic when you understand settlement periods. New structures can settle for up to 12 months, causing minor cracks that are usually harmless. One article outlines the typical settlement timeline and signs that need professional attention.
Finally, if you’re not sure whether to build or buy, the side‑by‑side cost analysis provides a clear spreadsheet you can copy. It includes land purchase, groundworks, construction, finishes, and the hidden cost of utilities and site fees. Plug in your numbers and see which option wins for your budget.
All these resources are linked on this tag page, so you can jump straight to the article that matches your current concern. Whether you’re on the first step of drawing a floor plan or dealing with a cracked foundation, you’ll find a practical answer here.
Building a new home is a big commitment, but with the right information you can keep the project on track, stay within budget, and finish with a house that feels truly yours.
