New Homes for Sale in London

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New Homes in London

London is by far the largest city in the United Kingdom, populated by over 9.5 million people of various ethnicities. The megalopolis is home to 32 boroughs and the City of London. Thanks to one of the best transport systems in the world with over 270 Underground stations, it doesn’t really matter whether you live outside the city centre or not. London attracts homebuyers from all over the world with its constant capital growth as well as the country’s leading business centres and excellent job opportunities. 

What type of new homes do people live in London?

London’s residential buildings range from ultra-modern skyscrapers to cosy Georgian townhouses. All new homes, in general, can be divided into the following types: detached, semi-detached, terraced, flats, and townhouses. 

  • Detached. Detached properties do not share walls with other separate structures. This type provides more privacy than the rest and, therefore, they are usually more expensive.
  • Semi-detached. This type of home is more common and affordable. The main difference between semi-detached and detached properties is that the former shares one wall with another building.
  • Terraced. Terraced homes are one of the most iconic housing types in the United Kingdom that are quite popular in certain areas of central London. Each house shares walls on both sides with its neighbours.
  • Flats. Flats are self-contained living areas comprising a set of rooms that are part of a larger building. Another similar housing type is an apartment, which is usually known as an American version of the word. However, there is actually a difference that goes beyond that: apartments can be set across more than one floor and are perceived by many as a more luxurious option, while flats have all its rooms located on one floor. Also, premium flats on the top floor are called penthouses.
  • Townhouses. A townhouse is a type of terraced housing that usually has a small footprint on multiple floors, allowing it to be placed within a bustling city.

What are the pros and cons of new homes in London?

A home is strongly associated with the sense of belonging and something your own, which is why it’s no surprise that many people choose new builds, knowing full well that no one has ever lived in their home before. Add pristine finishes and fittings as well as modern technologies to that, and a newly-built property seems like a perfect option. However, there are some drawbacks, such as probable delays in construction, unreliable developers that fail to deliver what’s been promised, and some additional charges that come with new homes. 

ProsCons
+ Brand new home. There is something more appealing about a property that hasn’t been accommodated by anyone yet. - Questionable quality. You may come across a home builder that will fail to deliver the quality you expected. 
+ Energy efficiency. New build homes must comply with the latest building regulations that ensure a higher level of energy efficiency compared to older homes. - Space. In general, new homes tend to be smaller than older ones. Although it depends on the property’s price, location, and other characteristics, you are more likely to find a spacious old home than a new one. 
+ Incentives. In an attempt to attract more buyers, developers may offer some additional perks such as paying your Stamp Duty. - Limited options. Although you can customise your future home, there is a limited list of available options. For instance, you can choose only between two colour options. 
+ Government help. There are government-backed schemes that can help you buy a new build home, such as Help to Buy and Shared Ownership. The Help to Buy programme provides an equity loan for first-time buyers, while Shared Ownership allows you to buy only a share of the property if you can’t afford the whole sum, and pay the rest as rent to a landlord. - New home premium. New properties are often sold at a premium price as you’re not only paying for the real estate itself but also for the fact that it’s new, no one has inhabited it before, and other perks. Therefore, you may get less for your money compared to an older property. 
+ Modern living. New build homes are usually equipped with the latest technologies and solutions, accompanied by modern amenities. - Delays. If you’re buying off-plan, it means that your property hasn’t been built yet. Therefore, there is a certain risk that the completion date could be delayed. 
+ Warranties. All newly-built properties come with a warranty, providing homebuyers with some peace of mind. - Estate management charges. Some developments are managed by private companies, leading to additional expenses, such as maintenance fees. 
+ Interior customisation. 

What are the best places to buy a new home in London?

The answer to this question depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re buying a home in hope of getting significant capital growth, then you need to consider the areas undergoing regeneration. Outer London is better for those who prefer some peace and quiet, while the city centre attracts a younger crowd with a good budget. 

  • Richmond upon Thames. Named the happiest place to live in London, this affluent area boasts an abundance of green spaces, low crime rates, and great amenities. Richmond upon Thames is also a great pick for families thanks to its top-performing schools.
  • Bexley. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, Bexley might be your answer. Apart from its appealing price tag, the borough is peppered with luscious fields and quaint markets as well as great transport links.
  • Islington. For students, Islington is one of the best areas in London due to its proximity to universities and relative affordability. In addition, the borough is well-connected to the city centre.
  • Camden. Known as a hipster hub, Camden is a good pick for young people. The area offers a collection of street food spots, vintage stores, and lively vegan shops.
  • Lewisham. Some are falsely convinced that London isn’t a good place for nature lovers. However, outer boroughs, such as Lewisham, might prove them wrong as the area has no shortage of beautiful green spaces.
  • Shoreditch. If you are an adventurous eater or just love various cuisines, Shoreditch can be exactly what you need. Although it’s not the most affordable place in London, it’s definitely worth it.
  • Barking and Dagenham. For those who are tight on a budget, Barking and Dagenham is a great choice. Located within reaching distance of central London, the borough has one of the cheapest real estate in the city.

FAQ

  • Do new homes come with appliances?

It all depends on the developer, but, in most cases, you can expect the following appliances: a dishwasher, a range hood, an oven, and a stove. Premium houses are equipped with much more options, such as a fridge, a microwave, blinds, and fences. 

  • Is buying a new build home a good investment?

New build homes help investors rise their property's appreciation rate and build equity faster, which is why new real estate is especially popular among investors. However, it’s always important to conduct a survey of the market before buying a property as there are many factors at play.  

  • Are new homes cheaper?

New build homes are generally cost more than resale properties. 

  • Are new homes built well?

New homes often get critisized for its bad quality. Even when purchasing a premium home, you might find some snags and imperfections. Therefore, you should get a snagging survey done as soon as possible to make the developer fix everything in time.  

  • Where are first time buyers buying in London?

First-time buyers usually opt for more affordable areas, such as Bexley and Bromley that, despite not having any Underground stations, are well-connected via other transport links. Other popular options include Bexley, Newham, Croydon, Sutton, and Enfield.

  • How much deposit do I need to buy a new home in London?

Typically, you would need to put down at least a 5% deposit. However, on average, people buy properties with a 15% deposit.

  • Is London a good place to invest in property?

London is one of the best cities for real estate investments in Europe. It’s widely known for exceptional capital growth and high rents. 

  • Can a foreigner buy property in London?

London is a very popular location among overseas investors as there are no restrictions forbidding foreigners from buying property. 

Prices for new buildings in London areas

Westminsterfrom £‍2 492 / ft2
City of Londonfrom £‍1 370 / ft2
Islingtonfrom £‍767 / ft2
Camdenfrom £‍1 450 / ft2
Kensington and Chelseafrom £‍2 496 / ft2
Lambethfrom £‍1 372 / ft2
Tower Hamletsfrom £‍786 / ft2
Hackneyfrom £‍955 / ft2
Southwarkfrom £‍858 / ft2
Wandsworthfrom £‍975 / ft2
Hammersmith and Fulhamfrom £‍1 136 / ft2
Waltham Forestfrom £‍585 / ft2
Haringeyfrom £‍718 / ft2
Newhamfrom £‍577 / ft2
Brentfrom £‍657 / ft2
Lewishamfrom £‍596 / ft2
Greenwichfrom £‍652 / ft2
Barnetfrom £‍707 / ft2
Ealingfrom £‍668 / ft2
Mertonfrom £‍660 / ft2

Prices for apartments in London areas

Westminsterfrom £‍525 000
City of Londonfrom £‍785 000
Islingtonfrom £‍530 000
Camdenfrom £‍570 000
Kensington and Chelseafrom £‍675 000
Lambethfrom £‍440 000
Tower Hamletsfrom £‍380 000
Hackneyfrom £‍320 000
Southwarkfrom £‍290 000
Wandsworthfrom £‍340 000
Hammersmith and Fulhamfrom £‍387 500
Waltham Forestfrom £‍300 000
Haringeyfrom £‍417 500
Newhamfrom £‍276 995
Brentfrom £‍285 000
Lewishamfrom £‍360 000
Greenwichfrom £‍345 000
Barnetfrom £‍360 000
Ealingfrom £‍295 000
Mertonfrom £‍400 000

Prices for new buildings in other cities

Hertfordshirefrom £‍567 / ft2
Surreyfrom £‍612 / ft2
Essexfrom £‍415 / ft2
Buckinghamshirefrom £‍581 / ft2
Berkshirefrom £‍456 / ft2
Kentfrom £‍407 / ft2
Milton Keynesfrom £‍349 / ft2
Manchesterfrom £‍366 / ft2
Greater Manchesterfrom £‍334 / ft2

Prices for apartments in other cities

Hertfordshirefrom £‍250 000
Surreyfrom £‍155 000
Essexfrom £‍225 000
Buckinghamshirefrom £‍195 000
Berkshirefrom £‍225 000
Kentfrom £‍168 000
Milton Keynesfrom £‍214 995
Manchesterfrom £‍160 000
Greater Manchesterfrom £‍125 000