New Build Property Solicitors

A new build is a residential property that has been newly built to be sold as a home. This can include properties that have been significantly renovated and turned into a home for the first time. As the government continues to support new housing, there is a good chance your next transaction could involve a new build home.

Whether first-time buyers or seasoned homeowners, many of us choose new build homes in the hope that these properties come with fewer issues. Nevertheless, new build properties come with their own unique set of considerations. It is really important to instruct solicitors with experience and expertise across all aspects of the new build conveyancing process.

At Kingsfords, we possess the expertise to assist you in completing the new build purchase process quickly, efficiently, and with the minimum of fuss. Our goal is to guide you along each step of the way, bringing peace of mind as you move on to your next home.

Speak to our new build property solicitors today

Our team of residential property solicitors are ready to help. Get in touch with us at our offices in Ashford, Cranbrook or Hythe by calling 01233 624545. Alternatively, please fill in the online enquiry form provided and we reply promptly.

Why choose Kingsfords Solicitors

At Kingsfords, our goal is to make the conveyancing process as easy and efficient as possible. We offer affordable and tailored legal solutions to ensure that our clients receive the best possible service.

Our expertise extends beyond that of new build conveyancing solicitors and across all aspects related to property transactions, such as buy to let, freehold and leasehold and shared ownership.

Our commitment to excellence in the legal profession is demonstrated through our Lexcel accreditation, a hallmark of quality that reflects our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of practice. Additionally, our expertise in conveyancing is recognized by the Law Society Conveyancing Quality Scheme, assuring our clients of receiving top-notch legal advice and outstanding customer service.

Client satisfaction is of paramount importance to us, and we are proud that a recent survey showed over 99% of respondents expressing their willingness to use our services again. This not only reflects the trust our clients place in us but also serves as a testament to our commitment to maintaining excellence in all aspects of our service.

We take the time to communicate with our clients using clear and plain language, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and well-informed throughout their journey with us. Whether through phone calls, emails, selected online platforms, or face-to-face meetings, our team will be readily available and responsive to your needs.

Frequently asked questions about new build property property

What does a solicitor do when buying a new build house?

Kingsfords’ new build conveyancing solicitors provide full assistance throughout your journey. We will review and verify the property contract to ensure all necessary details are included and that everything is in your best interests. We maintain timely communication with the developers throughout. Our conveyancers will handle the exchange of contracts and assist in the transfer of funds leading to completion.

The new build conveyancing process broadly involves the following steps:

• Contract Review: They carefully examine the developer's contracts, which can be more intricate with new builds.
• Property Searches: It will be necessary to carry out essential property searches in the local area to highlight any potential issues that could impact the property's value.
• Liaising with the Developers  Solicitors: To meet all paperwork and deadline requirements.
• Explain what covenants and/or restrictions are on your property and if you will be expected to contribute funds to a management company if your new home is on an estate.
• New Build Warranty: They ensure the property includes the necessary new build warranty, guarding against future structural issues.
• Registration: Finally, after the sale is complete, your conveyancer will carry out the Inland Revenue stamping and registration of the property on your behalf  with the Land Registry.

How long will the new build property conveyancing take?

The timeline for new build property conveyancing usually spans 8 to 12 weeks, if the New Build is actually built and ready to occupy. The duration may differ based on the specific property and any potential complications that arise during the process. Your conveyancer will stay in touch with you throughout the process to ensure a smooth and timely completion.

Do you need a conveyancer for a new build?

It is highly recommended to instruct solicitors for new build homes. Conveyancers handle the paperwork and legal jargon involved in the buying process. Mortgage lenders often require a specialist lawyer selected from their ‘Panel’ to conduct the conveyancing on behalf of the buyer, to ensure a smooth and legally compliant transaction. Having a conveyancer offers valuable expertise and guidance, ensuring that the purchase process is well-managed and protects the buyer's interests. Kingsfords Solicitors is on most if not all mainstream lenders panels.

What steps does the new build conveyancing process involve?

First, you will reserve the property by paying a non-refundable fee, typically between £500 and £2,000. Then, you will instruct your solicitor. The solicitor will conduct checks and searches, usually completed within 28 days from the reservation date.

The exchange of contracts deposit is a payment made by the buyer to the developer or builder at the point of exchanging signed contracts. This deposit is typically a percentage of the total property price, commonly around 5% or 10%. It is important to ensure that the property developers are registered with a warranty provider. This will protect your 10% deposit from penalties should you decide to withdraw from the sale due to unreasonable delays.

The deposit is paid to the developers as “agent”, so the developer has this to spend, which is why it is important to ensure all paperwork and guaranties are in place to protect you in the rare event the developer defaults.

Once all checks related to the buying new build process successfully completed and contracts are exchanged, your conveyancer will transfer the deposit to the seller's solicitor, finalising the exchange, if the property is not finished to purchase the new build property. Completion will then be on 7 or 14 days-notice.

What is the difference between exchange and completion?

The exchange of contracts is the point at which both you and the seller sign the contract, making the agreement legally binding. At this stage, you will usually pay a deposit, and both parties commit to the sale. Completion, on the other hand, is the date when you finalise the full payment, and the property becomes officially yours — you receive the keys to your new home, and the purchase process is complete, save for stamping, registration and any post-completion requirements your solicitors will continue with.

What happens if there are problems with a new build property?

In most cases, new build conveyancing is relatively straightforward. However, if you encounter problems with your new build, it may be necessary to escalate the issue. In such cases, you could potentially pursue compensation for related issues, including for negligence or substandard workmanship from the parties responsible for constructing your home.

It is important to consider potential delays that may be outside of your control, such as extreme weather conditions and shortages of building materials, which may impact the construction timeline or affect your mortgage offer and it’s expiry date. Developers are often not responsible for matters beyond their control.

Get in touch with our new build property solicitors today

Get in touch with our new build property solicitors in Kent at our offices in Ashford, Cranbrook or Hythe today by calling 01233 624545. Alternatively, please fill in our enquiry form to request a prompt call back.