New Year, New House
A keyword that has been impressed upon us in 2024 is “change”. So maybe 2025 is the time to “change” and move house. Not a small matter to consider but as life evolves our needs change.
Being mindful of budgets and the Green Ticket, looking for a property with a high EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating and sustainable credentials, is important to be mindful of ongoing maintenance costs. It is generally assumed you must buy a brand new contemporary house to minimise running costs. Still, a period house can go a long way towards meeting the target if restored with clear objectives and professional advice.
There are many ways to heighten an EPC rating on most houses. Taking advice from architects, heating engineers, etc, it is important to ensure you comply with regulations and circumstances relating to the individual property. Whilst initial capital investment may be high, running costs will be reduced going forward. In a market where buyers are very mindful of running costs, there is a benefit in property value terms when you come to sell. Indeed, some mortgage companies prefer to only lend for homes that comply with the increasing green credentials. Similarly, insurance companies ask detailed questions about insulation, heating, etc. and award homes with high ratings and security with better rates.
It isn’t easy to check every box, as the rules constantly change as technology improves what can be done. Taking just a few steps compatible with this can help prolong the pleasure of your home: “It’s all about coming home.”
Aide Memoire When Buying A New Home
Identify the location to fit your requirements:
Research all relevant amenities you require – schools, transport, leisure facilities etc.
If necessary, discuss funding requirements with an IFA, bank, or mortgage broker. A selling agent will ask for proof of funds when submitting an offer.
Engage a solicitor in advance enabling them to carry out all required Anti Money Laundering searches to be ready with the purchase. Ideally, use the same solicitor if selling and buying consecutively.
Going forward, you will require a building surveyor, insurance broker, architect - if looking to make alterations - builders and project manager for larger alterations to ensure all regulations are fully met.
Removal Company:
It is best to have them on notice as timing has to fit in with legal completion dates if selling.
Locksmith:
It is advisable to change the locks on a new property and advise the insurance company
so a full list of current keyholders can be provided.
Arrange for all services to be transferred:
Final bills in the house you leave and new contracts for the new house.
Recoco Tip:
Make sure the kettle is on hand on moving day, as tea will be required regularly by removal men and yourself!
A varied selection of properties with excellent EPC ratings:
Bickleigh House, Bickleigh, Exe Valley: Imposing, listed former Georgian rectory in elevated village setting with wide, rural views set in 23 acres. Meticulously restored to combine period features with contemporary eco credentials for efficient running. A unique combination.
1 Matford Road, St.Leonards, Exeter: Striking, modern masterpiece in exclusive city location - 7,000 sq.ft. accommodation in 0.7 acre mature garden with swimming pool. “A” rated EPC for maximum
efficiency.
Beach House, Croyde: Amazing, tranquil coastal retreat in 1 ace with sea and pastoral views. The perfect antidote to modern life: Independent sustainable living- solar and wind power, private services:
Weaver House, Plymtree, Cullompton: Energy efficient “Grand Designs” large family home set in 6 acres in a conveniently located countryside location.
3 Monkston Court, Salcombe: 2 bedroom apartment in a fantastic elevated setting overlooking Salcombe estuary towards South Pool Creek. Perfect main residence or second home.