New Builds... make energy-efficient homes

With household bills looking set to increase by a whopping 25% this winter, first time buyers might find that they can no longer afford to ignore the environmental credentials and potential savings that new homes can offer. The situation has worsened to such a level that, according to recent research, by the end of the year dual fuel bills will have increased by as much as 50% since 2007.

With this in mind, first time buyers may be interested to know that new homes are actually up to 40% more efficient than older properties. This could mean savings of hundreds of pounds in utility bills over a year and also will guarantee a much warmer winter at home. So first time buyers really should consider more seriously the benefits that modern construction can bring - both financially and practically.

What makes a new home so much more efficient?
Well, modern construction methods mean than today's new homes are a remarkable 10 times more efficient that their Victorian equivalents.

The benefits of a standard new home include:

Energy-efficient heating - new homes are cheaper and warmer to run

Energy-efficient lighting - new homes' light fittings provide cheaper lighting

Double-glazing - fitted with trickle vents to provide controlled ventilation

Insulation - lofts are insulated to a minimum 250mm to cut heat loss

Airtight homes - draught proofing is much better in new homes

Gary Ennis, Southern Regional Managing Director for Barratt Homes, says: "You could save hundreds of pounds on fuel bills compared to older homes and also live a greener lifestyle with lower carbon dioxide emissions.
"New homes today are far better by design and as a result are considerably more energy efficient. As well as providing positive advantages for the environment, they can also mean substantial costs savings for the homeowner. So instead of paying for heating that will escape quickly through old windows and floorboards, the heat stays inside, keeping you warm.
"New homes are set to improve even more in the next few years because we are continually moving forward on the technology used to build them."

As well as energy efficiency these new homes provide additional benefits to the homeowner. These include:
Providing extra storage - for bicycles and drying clothes
Providing better recycling facilities
Improvements to sound insulation
Better security in the home
More natural daylight in the property

Ennis adds: "Buying a more efficient new home will offer the homebuyer many advantages. In addition to significant savings in energy bills, homebuyers can also benefit from extra daylight, increased storage and reduced noise from neighbours. Furthermore, we often provide brand-new appliances with a new home, which will meet certain energy criteria levels. As well as saving you from purchasing these items when you by a new home, they will run efficiently and again will result in lower bills."

So as we approach colder nights and darker days, perhaps now is a good time to consider the added benefits of buying a new and more efficient home.

A GREENER LIFESTYLE
After renting in Chichester for five years, Brad and Emma Ainsworth and their three young boys were keen to buy their own home. Apart from being attracted by the offer from affordable housing provider Affinity Sutton to buy a new home at Graylingwell Park in Chichester on a shared ownership (part buy/part rent) basis, with only a 5% deposit, they were also impressed by the home's exceptional energy-saving features. Brad says: "Graylingwell Park is a lovely development set in 85 acres of extensive parkland and will be the UK's largest carbon neutral scheme. The homes have high levels of insulation, double-glazing, water storage for recycling and heating supplied by a central heating and power plant. The green aspects of our property are a big plus, and they're saving us a small fortune."

Emma, who stays at home to bring up the children, appreciates the glorious surroundings. She says: "The area is wonderful, it's very green and there are nature trails, fields and parks. A free bus service makes it easy to get into town for shopping and to take the children to school. There are also plans for a farm shop, post office and allotments, which will be fantastic."

The Ainsworths bought a 25% share in a three bedroom house for £71,250 and paid a 5% deposit of £3,500. They pay £440 a month mortgage repayment and £460 subsidised rent on the remaining share of their home and service charges. They plan to buy more shares as soon as they can afford it.

All homes offered by Affinity Sutton on a part buy/part rent basis are now reserved, but the next phase is due to be released this autumn.

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