Kent-based housebuilder, Ward Homes say a new survey shows that 79 per cent of house-hunters would prefer to buy a brand new home rather than an older property.

Ward Homes, whose developments include Kingsferry Place, a mix of 98 two, three, four and five-bedroom homes in Iwade, near Sittingbourne, believe their research shows a 27 per cent increase in the popularity of new build, since the housebuilder conducted the same research in 2008.

Home hunters nationwide were quizzed in spring 2012 and thought that new homes offered lower maintenance, lower running costs, higher specifications and solid construction.

Mark Bailey, managing director for Ward Homes, commenting on the survey said: “Our customers in Kent are telling us that renting is more expensive than buying and with schemes like the government backed NewBuy 95% mortgage scheme, buyers can buy a brand new home with as little as 5% deposit. This scheme is not available in the second hand market.

“Over the past four years, Ward Homes has gone out of its way to improve the quality of its homes – which has been nationally recognised. Those who had put off plans to move, or have been saving for a deposit are surprised at how affordable a new build home can be.”

He added: “In addition, Ward Homes are backed by the National House Building Council’s 10 year structural guarantee and our own exclusive five year Barratt warranty on fixtures and fittings.”

The survey also showed that:

: 33% of those polled had been saving a deposit for more than 5 years.

: Overall 60% of respondents are assisted by their parents to buy a home, including: being a guarantor, or providing a loan to help with furnishing the property or help with a deposit.

: 39% of respondents expect to purchase in the next 12 months.

Prices at Kingsferry Place, Iwade start at £199,995 for a three-bedroom home.

For more information on Ward Homes please call 0844 5566 144 or visit www.wardhomes.co.uk