Risby Homes

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Buying a new build property? All your questions answered…

Viewing and buying a house can be a daunting prospect at the best of times, and combined with present Covid-restrictions on viewings and face-to-face time with sales managers it can seem like you might never get all the answers you’re after. Together with our property agents, Stanifords, we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions about buying a new home.

From the implications of Covid to the amount of input you’ll have on your new home (spoiler alert, lots!) – here’s our complete guide to buying a new build…

Covid-19

Can I still view Risby properties during Covid-19?

Absolutely, albeit with some Covid-safe restrictions in place. At Risby Homes, our show home and sales office are open Thursday – Monday from 10am to 4pm. Viewings are strictly by appointment only and we ask that you please wear a face covering for the entirety of your visit. Be sure to also scan the NHS Covid App location QR code displayed at our office.

We are limited to the number of visits we can have on our sites during the construction phase due to safety regulations, but you can discuss individual visits with our sales manager.

Can I still complete on a house during Covid-19? 

Yes, completing on your new home has not changed during the pandemic. However, some of the legal processes are taking a little longer with the majority of office staff working predominantly from home.

What other implications are current Covid-19 restrictions having that may affect my new build purchase?

We are currently up to date and on track with all current reservations and completion dates. Whilst the uncertainty due to Covid means there is potential for manufacturing and legal delays, we make sure to keep all our customers up to date on anything that may impact on their home progress or completion date.

Buying off plan

How much input can I have into the layout, styling and finishes in my new home? 

Every home builder has a different approach to how much of your build can be personalised and adapted. Choosing a Risby Home is choosing to create a bespoke home, designed to fit your individual style and living preferences. We want every step of your home build journey to be as personal to you as it can possibly be. Subject to build stage, you will be able to choose the layout and style of your designer kitchen and completely restructure the layout of rooms.

How long will my plot take to be completed from the time I sign? 

A Risby Home takes on average 6 months from start to finish.

Does the developer offer a ‘long stop’ completion date for delays? 

A long stop completion date is when you receive compensation for delays in your move in date. Yes, Risby Homes offer this – for more information please speak with our sales manager Trina by calling 07376 110 229.

Can I visit my home during the build process? 

At Risby Homes we do allow visits to your plot during the build, but these are at the discretion of the site manager, and are by appointment only. Given the current Covid situation most customers are able to view their plot once their kitchen has been installed. Should you wish to view your house at another time then please discuss it with our sales manager.

Finance 

What help is available for buying our new build house?

At Risby Homes we make the purchase of your new home as hassle free and financially viable as possible. For information on part exchanges, help to buy equity loan schemes or any additional financing information please speak to our sales manager directly.

Ownership & Land

Is the new property leasehold or freehold? 

All Risby Homes are freehold. Whether your new build home is freehold or leasehold is fundamental, so make sure you check with your house builder. Leasehold means that you have a lease from the freeholder to use the home for a number of years. Whilst the government has committed to ban the selling of new houses on a leasehold basis, this has not yet come into force.

Warranty and Home Improvement

What is included in our new home warranty?

At Risby homes we offer the maximum NHBC 10 Year Warranty. Cover starts from exchange of contracts. For the first two years you are covered by a builder warranty and from years 3-10 you are covered by Buildmark cover which protects you from damage caused where the property has not been built to NHBC standards.

What limitations do I have on making changes to my property?

Every home builder has their own limitations on what can and cannot be added or changed on properties. Due to the bespoke nature of our builds, please speak to our sales manager about any limitations to changes on your property.

At Risby Homes we aim to make your home buying process as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. If you would like to learn more about our current or past developments, or want to organise a Covid-safe face-to-face appointment with our sales manager Trina Henderson then please call or email 07376110229 / trina@risbyhomes.co.uk. We look forward to helping you create your dream home!

Useful links

Mortgage Calculator: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/moving-and-improving-your-home/mortgage-calculator/

Information on stamp duty: https://www.gov.uk/buy-sell-your-home/tax

Help to Buy: https://www.helptobuy.gov.uk

NHBC – what does buildmark cover: http://www.nhbc.co.uk/Homeowners/WhatdoesBuildmarkcover/

Budgeting advice: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/budgeting/budgeting/work-out-your-budget/