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A step-by-step guide to buying off-plan

Have you ever wondered what it's really like buying off-plan? Read our guide on what to expect from the journey, and what you should look out for along the way.

Key takeaways

  • New build homes are low maintenance by design, with modern construction methods, durable materials and layouts created for everyday living.
  • Energy-efficient new build homes include modern heating systems, insulation and appliances that reduce running costs and require fewer repairs.
  • Buying a new build means everything is brand new, so there’s no need to budget for costly upgrades like kitchens, bathrooms, windows or rewiring.
  • New build warranties offer peace of mind, with a 10-year new homes warranty covering defects and unexpected issues.
  • Low maintenance homes can save thousands over time, especially compared to the cost of updating an older property to modern standards.
  • Persimmon new builds combine practicality and comfort, offering features like open plan living, built-in storage and utility rooms that reduce the need for future alterations.

If you’re searching for a new home, chances are you’ve come across the term ‘off-plan’ a few times. In this guide, we explain what off-plan means and what you need to know about the process of buying off-plan.

When people talk about an ‘off-plan’ property, they simply mean a property that hasn’t been built yet. It’s a common way for homes to be sold at new developments.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

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1. Choosing an off-plan home

  • Start browsing developments in the area you want to live in
  • Websites and brochures often show enticing visuals of elevations and interiors, so look carefully at floorplans and specifications to make sure the images match the house type of the plot you’re interested in
  • Ask the sales team at your chosen development if they offer any Early Bird schemes that allow you to secure your perfect plot before it’s even been released for sale

2. Arranging your mortgage

  • Speak to mortgage providers as early as possible to get an idea of what you can afford to borrow

3. Instructing a solicitor

  • The legal process for buying off-plan is slightly different from buying a property that’s already built, so it’s important to choose a solicitor with off-plan experience
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3. Instructing a solicitor

  • This involves paying a reservation fee to secure the home you’ve fallen in love with
  • Make sure you know exactly what you’re getting: ask for detailed plans and specifications, including design, layout, measurements, building materials and decorative finishes
  • Your reservation will have an expiry attached – a fixed period during which you and the developer should exchange contracts, which will vary from company to company

5. Exchanging contracts and completing

  • As soon as the contracts are signed, you pay your deposit – usually 10% of the purchase price
  • Before the reservation expiry date, solicitors representing you and the developer will exchange contracts
  • When you buy off-plan, instead of setting a completion date when the contracts are exchanged, your developer will give you an estimate for a build completion date
  • The legal completion date is only set once the build has been completed and the developer serves notice to your solicitor
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6. Making it yours

  • A huge benefit to buying off-plan is being able to style your home your way
  • While your home is being built, you can have fun making decisions that will make it truly yours – from colour schemes, lighting and flooring, to bathroom fittings, kitchen appliances and garden features
  • Generally speaking, the earlier you reserve your plot, the greater the choice you’ll have over upgrades, add-ons and finishing touches

7. Final checks

  • Attend any site visit and new home demonstration offered by your developer – it’s a great opportunity to see your new home, learn how it works and discuss any issues

3. Instructing a solicitor

  • The legal process for buying off-plan is slightly different from buying a property that’s already built, so it’s important to choose a solicitor with off-plan experience

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