Buying a new build home is an exciting and attractive prospect for many people and the need for the UK to build more new homes is a well-documented issue. Yet, new build homes are far from achieving universal appeal, with many would-be homebuyers still rejecting the concept in favour of older properties.
To understand what drives consumer confidence and what potential opportunities there are for housebuilders to challenge perceptions, British Gypsum commissioned a survey of 600 potential new build buyers and existing homeowners to assess their attitudes and experiences.
The results show that while many people are happy with their new home or confident to buy a new build property, there are areas of significant opportunity for housebuilders to meet buyer concerns head on and drive a new standard in the sector.
To tackle criticisms relating to the quality of construction materials used, there are high quality solutions available and a number of housebuilders are improving their customer satisfaction rates by including these solutions within their specification. Here are British Gypsum’s top tips based on their findings.
Internal wall improvements
At first glance, there are several attractive qualities in a new build for home buyers, but once settled in the property, many are finding themselves disgruntled by structural issues. Of those surveyed, 38% said they would not build a new build again due to flimsy internal walls.
Helping housebuilders to challenge this perception s Gyproc Habito. An innovative plasterboard solution which provides homeowners with the flexibility to live comfortably, including being able to install heavy items like TVs, mirrors and curtains without concern.
For example, many kitchen walls are usually finished with standard plasterboard making hanging heavy difficult or in need or additional support to take the weight. Builders and architects should consider new board technologies which provide more strength than standard plasterboard, with a single fixing capable of supporting up to 15kg.
Sound solutions
Whether you’re building large family detached properties, starter homes or a block of flats, sound is one issue that resonates highly with the majority. Results of the survey revealed that 32% of those asked, described the noise travelling between rooms as a frustration of new build homes.
Developing properties to the required Building Regulations will only meet the minimum standard. However, if you’re going to make the building suitable for lots of different activities, the minimum will not be enough.
Exploring wall and floor solutions will substantially enhance the home, by controlling the volume of everyday life. Silent walls reduce the level of sound between rooms that are adjacent to each other, whilst silent floors create noise separation between upstairs and downstairs. Both are important considerations for both acoustic performance and comfortable living in multi-person households.
Finishing touches
The rise of minimalist home décor has increased the demand for solutions which free up space in the home.
Innovative solutions to a clutter-free space, include interactive Magnetic Walls, which allow homeowners to attach things directly to the wall, and move them easily – such as photo frames. The plaster can be installed over a new wall surface or retrofitted over an old wall as part of a room makeover.
Some simple fabric specification changes can make a real difference to the homeowner, and help property developers to set themselves apart from competitors. Whilst there is plenty to love about new builds, there are some real pain points for homeowners that could be easily addressed in order to raise the standard.
