Buying a new home is usually the biggest investment a person will make in their life. It is therefore extremely important to make the right decisions. Most are common sense but it’s an extra bonus to have a check list of the right moves to make. So here are some points to carefully consider.

Let your computer do the walking! Assuming that you have decided on your preferred location, use the internet to find out which house builders have developments in that particular area. Some have excellent websites and by going online you will be able to establish dwelling sizes, prices and availability, from the comfort of your own armchair – 24/7.

When you approach your chosen development(s), make sure the general environment is roughly what you expected and has easy access to all the important things in your life.

Don’t rush things. Take your time with the sales team. A sales team is one of the major benefits of buying a new build home. They are qualified professionals who will help you along every step of the home buying process and will want to make sure they are giving you their very best attention. It is very important to ask the sales team about all the home’s main features and room sizes. Make sure you know all about its energy efficiency characteristics, how much you can expect to spend on utility bills and if it has any special water conservation measures.

And remember, just because it is a new home does not mean that you cannot make the house builder an offer. Obviously you will be in a much better position if you can move quickly, are a cash buyer or have signed, or are about to sign the contract on your existing home sale – but anyone can make an offer. They can only say ‘no’!

Finally, go back to the development as many times as is necessary to make sure that you are totally confident with your ultimate decision. At least three times is best.