Matthew-homes.com Reviews

Based on checking the website, Matthew Homes appears to be a well-established property developer with over four decades of experience, specializing in a diverse range of homes across various locations in the UK.

Their online presence, matthew-homes.com, serves as a digital storefront showcasing their commitment to “building with tradition and character” and delivering “homes of quality & style.” While the site highlights specific developments and offers a quick property search, it’s crucial for prospective buyers to look beyond the curated online presentation and delve into comprehensive due diligence, especially given the significant financial commitment involved in purchasing a home.

As Muslims, we are taught the importance of thoroughness and transparency in all dealings, and when it comes to such a substantial investment, understanding all aspects of the transaction, including the nature of financing avoiding riba/interest and the builder’s reputation, is paramount for a blessed outcome.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Matthew-Homes.com Review & First Look

Upon an initial visit to matthew-homes.com, the website immediately conveys a sense of established professionalism and traditional values. The repeated tagline, “building with tradition and character Homes of quality & style,” sets a clear expectation for the type of properties they aim to deliver. The design is clean, intuitive, and focuses on showcasing their residential developments. It’s evident that Matthew Homes is not a new player in the market, with their claim of being “Established for more than forty years and with experience in building going back to the 1950s.” This longevity can be a significant draw for potential buyers seeking a developer with a proven track record.

• Initial Impressions: The site loads quickly and provides a good overview of their offerings. The use of high-quality imagery for featured developments is effective in visually engaging visitors.
• Key Information: Prominently displayed is their contact number, 01707 655550, indicating a direct line to their sales team. The “Quick property search” feature is also front and center, aiming to streamline the user experience for those looking for specific criteria.
• Target Audience: The language and aesthetic suggest they target individuals and families looking for well-built, conventional homes rather than ultra-modern or avant-garde designs.

Matthew-Homes.com Features

The website, matthew-homes.com, offers several features designed to assist potential homebuyers in their search.

While it functions primarily as a brochure for their developments, it does incorporate tools to enhance the user experience.

• Featured Developments Section: This is a core component of the site, highlighting active or upcoming projects.
  • Examples: As seen on the homepage, developments like White House Park Attleborough, Norfolk, Earls Park Gloucester, Gloucestershire, Ashfield Park Elmswell, Suffolk, and Blake Gardens Minster on Sea, Kent are given prime visibility.
  • “View Development” CTA: Each featured development has a clear call-to-action button, encouraging users to click through for more detailed information. This suggests dedicated pages for each property, likely containing floor plans, specifications, location details, and potentially virtual tours or image galleries.
• Quick Property Search: Located prominently, this feature allows users to filter properties based on specific criteria.
  • Potential Filters: While the exact filters aren’t detailed on the homepage, typical property search functions usually include:
    • Number of bedrooms
    • Location town/county
    • Price range though this is often omitted in initial searches by developers to encourage direct inquiry
    • Property type e.g., house, apartment
  • User Benefit: This streamlines the search process, helping potential buyers narrow down options that fit their needs without sifting through all available developments.
• “About Matthew Homes” Section: This crucial section is where the company elaborates on its history, values, and experience.
  • Historical Context: The claim of “Established for more than forty years and with experience in building going back to the 1950s” is a strong point. This highlights a deep root in the industry and a continuity of business practices.
  • Core Philosophy: The emphasis on “tradition and character” and “quality & style” reinforces their brand identity.
• Contact Information: A clear contact number 01707 655550 is provided, indicating their readiness for direct inquiries. This is essential for converting online interest into tangible leads.

Matthew-Homes.com Pros & Cons

When evaluating Matthew Homes based solely on their website, it’s important to consider both the strengths of their online presentation and potential areas where more clarity or detail might be beneficial for a prospective buyer.

Pros:

• Established Reputation: The site clearly communicates a long history, stating “Established for more than forty years and with experience in building going back to the 1950s.” This longevity in the property development sector often signifies stability and reliability.
• Clear Value Proposition: The repeated phrase “building with tradition and character Homes of quality & style” effectively conveys their brand promise and what buyers can expect in terms of aesthetic and build quality.
• User-Friendly Interface: The website is clean, easy to navigate, and features prominent calls to action. The “Quick property search” and “View Development” buttons are intuitive, making it simple for visitors to explore properties.
• Direct Contact Information: A visible phone number 01707 655550 ensures that interested parties can quickly get in touch for more personalized information or to arrange viewings.
• Geographic Diversity Implied: The featured developments span different counties like Norfolk, Gloucestershire, Suffolk, and Kent, suggesting a broader operational footprint rather than being limited to a single region. This offers choice to buyers looking in various parts of the UK.
• Focus on Residential Homes: Their specialization in “a diverse range of homes for a variety of different requirements” suggests they cater to a broad segment of the housing market, from perhaps starter homes to larger family residences.

Cons:

• Limited Online Detail Initial View: While the homepage teases information, it doesn’t offers into property specifications, floor plans, or pricing details without clicking through to individual development pages which are implied but not directly accessible from the homepage snippet. This necessitates further clicks and engagement to get substantive information.
• No Direct Pricing Information: Like many property developer websites, matthew-homes.com does not display specific property prices on its initial pages. This is common practice to encourage direct inquiry but can be a con for buyers who prefer transparent pricing upfront for initial budgeting.
• Lack of Customer Reviews/Testimonials: The homepage doesn’t feature any direct customer testimonials or review snippets. While this isn’t uncommon, including them could significantly boost credibility and provide social proof. Potential buyers would need to seek out third-party review sites for genuine feedback.
• No Information on Financing Options: The website doesn’t touch upon any financing advice or partnerships, which is a crucial aspect for many homebuyers. For a Muslim audience, this is particularly important to confirm the availability of halal financing options and avoid interest-based mortgages.

Matthew-Homes.com Alternatives

When considering a new home, exploring various developers and options is a prudent step.

For those looking at Matthew Homes, a range of other reputable homebuilders in the UK offer diverse properties and price points.

Each has its own approach to design, build quality, and customer service.

It is always advised to conduct thorough due diligence and compare offerings, keeping in mind aspects like location, build specifications, after-sales support, and crucial financial considerations.

• Large National Developers:

  • Barratt Developments: As one of the UK’s largest housebuilders, Barratt offers a wide range of properties from apartments to large family homes across the country under brands like Barratt Homes, David Wilson Homes, and Barratt London. They often have extensive developments and clear processes.
  • Persimmon Homes: Another major player, Persimmon operates across the UK, providing a variety of house types, often focusing on affordability and volume. They also have regional brands like Charles Church.
  • Taylor Wimpey: Known for their diverse portfolio, Taylor Wimpey builds homes of various sizes and styles, focusing on creating new communities. They have a strong presence nationwide.
  • Bellway Homes: Bellway builds everything from one-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom family homes, often in desirable locations. They emphasize quality and customer satisfaction.

• Regional & Mid-Sized Developers:

  • Redrow Homes: Often distinguished by their classic designs and focus on traditional architectural styles, Redrow builds high-quality family homes, particularly in the South East, North West, and Midlands.
  • Linden Homes part of Vistry Group: Specializing in contemporary and traditional homes, Linden Homes focuses on creating attractive communities in various regions of the UK.
  • Crest Nicholson: Known for their design-led approach, Crest Nicholson builds a mix of homes and apartments, often in well-connected locations, with a focus on creating sustainable communities.

• Specialized or Luxury Developers:

  • Berkeley Group: For those seeking higher-end properties, Berkeley Group is renowned for its premium developments, often in urban regeneration areas or desirable suburban locations, focusing on quality and intricate design.
  • Thakeham Homes: Operating primarily in the South East, Thakeham focuses on building sustainable homes and communities, with an emphasis on environmental responsibility and local sourcing.

When evaluating alternatives, it’s essential to:

• Visit Show Homes: Experience the build quality and finishes firsthand.
• Research Customer Reviews: Look for independent reviews on platforms like Trustpilot or Feefo for genuine buyer experiences.
• Check NHBC or Premier Guarantee Ratings: These bodies provide warranties and inspections for new homes, offering an indication of quality assurance.
• Inquire About After-Sales Support: Understand the warranty, snagging process, and customer service support post-purchase.
• Crucially, Investigate Financing: For Muslim buyers, this means asking about partnerships with Islamic finance providers or ensuring that conventional mortgage options can be structured in a Sharia-compliant manner, avoiding all forms of riba.

How to Evaluate a Home Builder’s Reputation

When considering a major purchase like a new home from a developer like Matthew Homes, their reputation is paramount.

Beyond the polished website, diligent research is essential.

A robust evaluation ensures peace of mind and safeguards your significant investment.

• Online Reviews and Forums:

  • Third-Party Review Sites: Platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Feefo can offer unfiltered feedback from past customers. Look for patterns in reviews regarding build quality, customer service, and responsiveness to issues.
  • Homeowner Forums: Search for dedicated forums or Facebook groups where buyers discuss their experiences with specific developers. These can provide nuanced insights into common problems or recurring positives.
  • Property Portals: Some property listing sites might also host developer reviews or ratings.

• Industry Body Memberships and Warranties:

  • NHBC National House-Building Council: As the UK’s leading new home warranty and insurance provider, NHBC membership is a strong indicator of quality control. Check if the developer is an NHBC registered builder, and understand the scope of their 10-year Buildmark warranty.
  • Premier Guarantee, LABC Warranty, ICW: Other reputable warranty providers also offer similar protection. Confirm which warranty applies to the development you’re interested in.

• Visit Completed Developments:

  • Talk to Residents: If possible, visit existing developments built by Matthew Homes or any other builder you are considering. Speak to current residents about their satisfaction levels, experiences with the build quality, and any post-handover issues. This provides invaluable firsthand accounts.
  • Assess Maintenance and Upkeep: Observe the general condition of the completed estates – are common areas well-maintained? Does the overall appearance suggest durable construction?

• Financial Health of the Company:

  • While difficult for an individual to assess thoroughly, a developer’s longevity like Matthew Homes’ “over forty years” often suggests financial stability. For larger purchases, some may even consult financial analysts for public companies. A financially stable developer is less likely to abandon projects or cut corners.

• Professional Accreditation and Awards:

  • Look for any industry awards or accreditations e.g., from the Home Builders Federation HBF, property industry awards. While not the sole determinant, these can indicate peer recognition for quality or innovation.

• Check for Any Legal or Regulatory Issues:

  • A quick online search for “Matthew Homes complaints” or “Matthew Homes legal issues” could reveal any significant past disputes. While every company might have minor issues, recurring serious complaints are a red flag.

• After-Sales Service and Snagging Process:

  • Inquire upfront about the developer’s customer service charter, their process for addressing snagging issues minor defects found after moving in, and the typical response times. A transparent and robust after-sales process is crucial. Data suggests that new build homeowners often report snagging issues, with a 2021 HBF report indicating that 93% of new home buyers would recommend their builder, but detailed feedback often reveals concerns about post-completion support.

By combining online research with direct observation and conversations, you can form a well-rounded understanding of a home builder’s true reputation, ensuring your investment is well-placed.

Matthew-Homes.com Pricing Structure

The website matthew-homes.com, like most property developer sites, does not display specific pricing information for individual homes or developments on its main pages. This is a standard industry practice, and it’s important for prospective buyers to understand why this is the case and how to obtain pricing details.

• Why Pricing is Not Publicly Displayed:

  • Variability: Prices for new homes can vary significantly based on plot size, specific property type e.g., terraced, semi-detached, detached, number of bedrooms, inclusion of upgrades or optional extras, and even the stage of development early bird offers vs. completed homes.
  • Market Fluctuations: Property prices can change based on market conditions, demand, and economic factors. Developers prefer to manage pricing dynamically.
  • Sales Strategy: Not publishing prices encourages direct contact with the sales team, allowing them to qualify leads, understand buyer needs, and provide tailored information, including available incentives or schemes.
  • Personalized Offers: Sales teams can discuss various purchase options, including part-exchange schemes, Help to Buy though this is ending in the UK, or other financial incentives that might affect the final price.

• How to Obtain Pricing Information:

  • Direct Inquiry: The primary method is to contact Matthew Homes directly via their phone number 01707 655550 or through inquiry forms available on the individual development pages.
  • Sales Offices: Visiting the sales office at a specific development is often the best way to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, as well as to view floor plans, show homes, and discuss available plots.
  • Brochures: Sales teams will typically provide detailed brochures that include pricing lists for the available units in a particular phase of a development.
  • Property Portals: While Matthew Homes’ own site doesn’t show prices, individual properties within their developments might be listed on major UK property portals like Rightmove or Zoopla, where prices are usually displayed. However, these may not always be the most current or reflect all available plots.

• Key Considerations for Budgeting:

  • Base Price: This is the initial cost of the property as advertised.
  • Upgrades and Extras: New builds often come with options for upgraded kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, landscaping, and other finishes. These can significantly add to the final cost. Budget an additional 5-10% of the base price for potential upgrades, based on typical industry averages.
  • Stamp Duty Land Tax SDLT: This is a government tax on property purchases in England and Northern Ireland. The amount depends on the property value and whether you are a first-time buyer.
  • Legal Fees: Conveyancing solicitors’ fees for handling the legal aspects of the purchase.
  • Mortgage Fees: Arrangement fees, valuation fees, and broker fees if applicable.
  • Removal Costs: The expense of moving your belongings.
  • Utilities and Council Tax: Initial setup costs and ongoing payments.

For a Muslim buyer, an even more critical aspect of pricing is the financing method. Directly engaging with the sales team allows for inquiries about their preferred mortgage providers. It is imperative to then independently verify if these providers offer Sharia-compliant financing options e.g., Murabaha, Ijara, Musharakah that avoid interest riba, which is strictly forbidden in Islam. If no such options are readily available through their partners, exploring independent Islamic finance institutions becomes essential before committing to any purchase.

Halal Home Financing Alternatives

For Muslims, engaging in transactions involving Riba interest is strictly prohibited.

This presents a significant challenge when purchasing homes through conventional mortgage systems, which are inherently interest-based.

Fortunately, in many parts of the world, including the UK, Islamic finance institutions offer viable, Sharia-compliant alternatives.

These methods are structured to avoid interest, ensuring the transaction adheres to Islamic principles.

• Murabaha Cost-Plus Financing:

  • Concept: The bank or Islamic financial institution purchases the property from the seller at the agreed price. The bank then sells the property to the buyer at a higher, pre-agreed price, which includes a profit margin for the bank. The buyer pays this total amount in installments over an agreed period.
  • Key Feature: The profit margin is fixed upfront, and there’s no accruing interest. The bank takes ownership of the asset temporarily.
  • Application: Often used for asset financing, including home purchases, especially for properties already built.

• Ijara Lease-to-Own:

  • Concept: The bank buys the property and then leases it to the customer for an agreed rental period. At the end of the lease, or through periodic payments during the lease, ownership is transferred to the customer.
  • Key Feature: The customer pays rent for the use of the property. The bank retains ownership until the full payment is made, but often transfers the “beneficial ownership” to the customer, making them responsible for maintenance.
  • Application: Popular for residential property financing, as it resembles a rental agreement with an eventual transfer of ownership.

• Musharakah Mutanaqisah Diminishing Partnership:

  • Concept: This is a declining balance partnership. The bank and the customer jointly purchase the property, becoming co-owners. The customer then gradually buys the bank’s share of the property over time through regular payments, which include both capital repayment for the bank’s share and a rental payment for the portion of the property still owned by the bank.
  • Key Feature: As the customer pays down the capital, their ownership share increases, and the bank’s share decreases, along with the rental portion. This model closely mimics a conventional mortgage’s diminishing principal, but without interest.
  • Application: Widely considered one of the most sophisticated and Sharia-compliant methods for home financing, as it involves true partnership and risk-sharing.

• Istisna’ Manufacture/Construction Contract:

  • Concept: An agreement where a buyer commissions a manufacturer or developer to build a specific asset according to agreed specifications. The payment can be upfront, in installments, or on completion.
  • Key Feature: The payment structure is flexible, and the asset is built to order.
  • Application: Can be used for financing new builds or custom-built homes where the property is yet to be constructed. The Islamic bank might enter into an Istisna’ contract with the developer and then sell the completed property to the customer via Murabaha or Musharakah.

Where to Find Halal Home Financing in the UK:

• Islamic Banks: Institutions like Al Rayan Bank formerly Islamic Bank of Britain specialize entirely in Sharia-compliant financial products.
• Conventional Banks with Islamic Windows: Some larger conventional banks may offer specific Islamic finance products through dedicated “windows” or departments, though their availability and depth of offerings vary.
• Islamic Finance Brokers: Specialized brokers can help connect you with various Islamic finance providers and navigate the complexities of Sharia-compliant home purchasing.

Important Considerations:

• Due Diligence: Thoroughly research any Islamic financial institution. Ensure they are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FCA in the UK and have a robust Sharia supervisory board.
• Transparency: Understand all fees, charges, and the exact terms of the agreement.
• Consult Scholars: If unsure, consult with knowledgeable Islamic scholars or financial advisors experienced in Sharia finance.

By pursuing these alternatives, Muslims can fulfill their housing needs while staying true to their faith, ensuring that their financial transactions are blessed and ethically sound.

How to Cancel a Matthew Homes Property Reservation or Purchase

Cancelling a property reservation or purchase, especially with a new build developer like Matthew Homes, involves specific legal and contractual steps.

It’s crucial to understand the implications, as significant financial deposits are often at stake.

This process is generally not as simple as cancelling a subscription. it’s a legal withdrawal from a contract.

1. Cancelling a Property Reservation

• Reservation Agreement: When you decide to purchase a new build, you typically sign a “reservation agreement” and pay a “reservation fee” often ranging from £500 to £2,000, but can be higher for more expensive properties. This agreement usually grants you exclusivity for a set period e.g., 28 days or 4-6 weeks to arrange financing and legal work.
• Cooling-Off Period Limited: Unlike other consumer contracts, there isn’t a statutory cooling-off period for property purchases that allows for easy cancellation without penalty. However, the reservation agreement itself might outline terms for cancellation.
• Forfeiture of Reservation Fee: If you decide not to proceed with the purchase during the reservation period, you will almost certainly forfeit your reservation fee. This fee is designed to cover the developer’s administrative costs and the opportunity cost of holding the property off the market.
• Notification: You must inform Matthew Homes or their sales team in writing of your decision to withdraw from the reservation. This is critical for clear communication and for your records.
• Exceptional Circumstances: In rare cases, if the developer fails to meet certain conditions e.g., significant delays not agreed upon, or issues with title deeds that weren’t disclosed, you might be entitled to a full refund of your reservation fee. However, this is unusual and would require legal advice.

2. Cancelling After Exchange of Contracts

This is a far more serious matter than cancelling a reservation and carries substantial financial penalties.

• Exchange of Contracts: This is the point of no return in a property transaction. Both buyer and seller are legally bound. At this stage, you typically pay a deposit usually 10% of the purchase price.
• Legal Consequences: If you withdraw after exchanging contracts, you will almost certainly lose your entire deposit. The developer also has the right to sue you for any additional losses incurred as a result of your withdrawal e.g., if they have to sell the property at a lower price.
• Force Majeure/Specific Clauses: Very rarely, contracts might contain specific clauses for “force majeure” events unforeseeable circumstances like natural disasters that could allow for cancellation without full penalty, but these are highly specific and uncommon for buyer-initiated withdrawals.
• Financial Hardship: Personal financial hardship e.g., job loss, mortgage offer withdrawal does not typically exempt you from the contractual obligations after exchange.

General Advice for Buyers:

• Read Everything Carefully: Before signing anything – especially the reservation agreement and later the purchase contract – ensure your solicitor reviews every clause thoroughly. Never sign without legal advice.
• Secure Financing First: Ideally, have a mortgage offer in principle, and even better, a full mortgage offer, before committing to a reservation. This minimizes the risk of losing your reservation fee due to financing issues.
• Understand Deadlines: Be aware of all deadlines specified in the reservation agreement and purchase contract, particularly for mortgage applications and conveyancing.
• Communicate: Maintain open and clear communication with Matthew Homes’ sales team and your solicitor throughout the process.
• Seek Legal Counsel: If you are considering cancelling at any stage, immediately consult with your conveyancing solicitor. They can advise on your legal position, potential liabilities, and the best course of action.

For a Muslim buyer, an additional layer of caution is necessary. If you are pursuing Sharia-compliant financing, ensure that your chosen Islamic finance provider has formally approved your application and is ready to proceed before exchanging contracts. Any unforeseen issues with the Islamic finance agreement could lead to severe financial repercussions if you’ve already committed to the purchase contract.

Matthew-Homes.com vs. Other Developers

When evaluating Matthew Homes against other developers, it’s not simply about comparing brochure images.

It’s about understanding their distinct market position, operational model, and overall value proposition.

Here’s a comparative look, focusing on aspects where Matthew Homes might differentiate itself or where others might excel.

Matthew Homes Based on Website Impression:

• Strength: Longevity and Tradition. Their claim of “Established for more than forty years and with experience in building going back to the 1950s” suggests deep roots and a commitment to traditional building values. This appeals to buyers seeking stability and proven craftsmanship.
• Focus: “Building with tradition and character Homes of quality & style.” This implies a focus on conventional, well-built homes rather than cutting-edge, minimalist designs.
• Scale: Appears to be a mid-sized to regional developer, with developments across various UK counties but not necessarily the massive national footprint of the largest players. This could mean a more personalized approach, though this is not guaranteed.
• Online Presence: Clean, professional, and informative for initial searches, but requires direct engagement for detailed pricing and specifications.

Vs. Large National Developers e.g., Barratt, Persimmon, Taylor Wimpey:

• Scale and Volume: These developers operate on a much larger scale, building thousands of homes annually across vast numbers of sites.
  • Advantage: Wider choice of locations and property types, more standardized processes, often quicker build times due to volume. They might offer more incentives or schemes due to their size.
  • Disadvantage: Can sometimes be perceived as less personalized. After-sales service can vary greatly depending on the specific site management. Build quality can be inconsistent across different sites.
• Pricing: Often more transparent or readily available on their websites due to the sheer volume of properties.
• Customer Service: May have more structured customer service departments, but individual experiences can still vary significantly.

Vs. Regional/Boutique Developers e.g., Smaller, local builders, or high-end bespoke developers:

• Scale and Focus: These developers build fewer homes, often concentrating on specific regions or niche markets e.g., luxury, eco-friendly, or bespoke homes.
  • Advantage: Can offer more bespoke designs, higher-end finishes, and a more personalized customer experience. Build quality can be exceptionally high due to close oversight. May adapt more readily to local architectural styles.
  • Disadvantage: Higher prices often reflect the bespoke nature and lower volume. Fewer developments mean less choice of location. After-sales support might be more informal but potentially more responsive if the developer is small.
• Pricing: Likely to be higher, reflecting the bespoke nature and premium finishes. Pricing is often negotiated directly.
• Reputation: Heavily reliant on local word-of-mouth and very specific project-by-project reviews.

Key Differentiating Factors to Consider:

1. Build Quality and Specifications: This is paramount. Look beyond the aesthetics. What materials are used? What are the energy efficiency ratings? Are the fixtures and fittings of a high standard, or will they need immediate upgrading?
2. After-Sales Service: How responsive is the developer to snagging lists? What is their warranty process beyond the standard NHBC/Premier Guarantee? This is often where experiences diverge.
3. Location and Community: Does the developer focus on creating cohesive communities or just building houses? How well do their developments integrate with existing infrastructure?
4. Value for Money: This isn’t just about the lowest price. It’s about the overall package: location, build quality, included features, and potential for appreciation. A “cheaper” home might require significant upgrades.
5. Flexibility and Customization: Some developers offer more options for customization e.g., choice of kitchen units, flooring, paint colours than others, especially before construction is complete.
6. Sustainability Practices: Are they incorporating eco-friendly materials, renewable energy sources, or sustainable drainage systems? This is increasingly important for long-term living costs and environmental impact.

In conclusion, Matthew Homes positions itself as a traditional, quality-focused builder with significant experience.

For a prospective buyer, the key is to weigh this against the scale, price points, and specific offerings of other developers, always conducting thorough due diligence that extends beyond the website.

What to Consider Before Buying a New Build Home

Buying a new build home, whether from Matthew Homes or any other developer, offers distinct advantages but also requires specific considerations.

It’s a different process from buying an existing property and warrants careful thought to avoid potential pitfalls.

• Advantages of New Builds:

  • Modern Standards & Efficiency: New builds are typically built to current building regulations, meaning they are more energy-efficient better insulation, modern boilers, double glazing, which translates to lower utility bills. Data from the HBF in 2023 indicated new homes are 66% more energy efficient, saving buyers an average of £2,600 per year on energy bills compared to older properties.
  • Less Maintenance: Everything is brand new, reducing the likelihood of immediate repairs or renovations for several years.
  • Chain-Free: There’s no upward chain, which can make the buying process quicker and less stressful.
  • New Home Warranties: Most new builds come with a 10-year warranty e.g., NHBC Buildmark, protecting against structural defects.
  • Customization Pre-Completion: Depending on the build stage, you might have the option to choose kitchen units, bathroom tiles, flooring, and other upgrades.

• Key Considerations:

  • Snagging Issues: While everything is new, minor defects snags are common. These can include paint imperfections, minor plumbing issues, or misaligned doors. A thorough snagging inspection by a professional is highly recommended before completion. Ensure the developer has a clear snagging resolution process.
  • Smaller Plot Sizes: New build developments often maximize density, which can lead to smaller gardens or less separation between homes compared to older properties.
  • “New Build Premium”: New homes can sometimes command a higher price than comparable older properties in the same area. Research local property values carefully.
  • Leasehold vs. Freehold: Be extremely vigilant about the tenure. While houses are typically freehold, some new build houses are sold as leasehold, which can involve ground rent, service charges, and restrictions. The UK government has been moving to ban new leasehold houses, but ensure you understand the terms if applicable. Apartments are almost always leasehold.
  • Development Completion: Understand that your home might be completed before the entire development is finished. This can mean living on a building site for a period, with ongoing noise, dust, and construction traffic.
  • Estate Management Fees: Many new developments have communal areas e.g., roads, green spaces, play areas that are not adopted by the local council. These are managed by a private management company, and homeowners pay annual service charges or estate management fees. Understand these costs and what they cover.
  • Builder Reputation: As discussed previously, research the developer’s track record thoroughly. Look for reviews, visit past developments, and speak to existing residents.
  • Sales Incentives: Be wary of incentives like part-exchange, mortgage subsidies, or furniture packages. While appealing, ensure they truly offer value and don’t inflate the property’s price or tie you into unfavorable terms.
  • Professional Legal Advice: Engage a solicitor who specializes in new build purchases. They will be familiar with the unique complexities of developer contracts, which can differ significantly from standard property contracts.
  • Halal Financing: For Muslim buyers, this is a non-negotiable. Ensure that your financing is through Sharia-compliant channels, completely avoiding interest riba. Confirm this before any financial commitments are made.

By taking these factors into account, you can make a more informed decision and navigate the new build purchase process with greater confidence, ensuring your home is not just a place to live, but also a blessed asset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Matthew-homes.com a reputable developer?

Based on their website, Matthew Homes claims to be “Established for more than forty years and with experience in building going back to the 1950s,” suggesting a long-standing presence in the industry, which typically indicates a reputable background.

However, full reputation assessment requires checking independent reviews and industry body memberships.

Where does Matthew Homes build properties?

Matthew Homes appears to build in various locations across the UK.

Their website highlights featured developments in counties such as Norfolk White House Park, Attleborough, Gloucestershire Earls Park, Gloucester, Suffolk Ashfield Park, Elmswell, and Kent Blake Gardens, Minster on Sea.

Can I view floor plans on Matthew-homes.com?

The homepage of matthew-homes.com does not display detailed floor plans directly.

You would typically need to click through to individual “View Development” pages, or contact their sales office, to access specific property details including floor plans and specifications.

Does Matthew Homes offer apartments or just houses?

Based on the website’s description of producing a “diverse range of homes for a variety of different requirements,” it’s likely they offer both houses and potentially apartments, though their featured developments currently showcased appear to be houses.

You would need to check individual development listings for specifics.

How do I contact Matthew Homes for sales inquiries?

You can contact Matthew Homes directly via the phone number prominently displayed on their homepage: 01707 655550. Their individual development pages or a general contact section on their website would also likely provide inquiry forms or email addresses.

Are Matthew Homes properties covered by a warranty?

Yes, new build properties in the UK are typically covered by a 10-year structural warranty, such as the NHBC Buildmark or Premier Guarantee. Englishelm.com Reviews

While the Matthew Homes website doesn’t explicitly state which warranty provider they use on its homepage, it’s standard practice for reputable developers. You should confirm this with their sales team.

Do Matthew Homes offer any incentives for buyers?

The Matthew Homes website does not explicitly list buyer incentives on its homepage.

New build developers often offer various incentives e.g., help with stamp duty, part exchange, legal fees contribution. You would need to inquire directly with their sales team about any current offers.

What is a “reservation fee” with Matthew Homes?

A reservation fee is an upfront payment made to a developer like Matthew Homes to secure a specific plot for a limited period, typically 28 days to 6 weeks.

This takes the property off the market while you arrange financing and legal work.

This fee is usually non-refundable if you decide not to proceed.

Is Matthew Homes a large national housebuilder?

Matthew Homes’ website suggests they have over 40 years of experience and developments in several counties, indicating a well-established presence.

However, they do not appear to operate on the same scale as the very largest national housebuilders like Barratt or Persimmon, positioning them more as a significant regional or mid-sized developer.

Can I customize my new home with Matthew Homes?

The level of customization available depends on the stage of construction and the developer’s policy.

Often, if you reserve a home early in the build process, you may have options to choose certain fixtures, fittings, or upgrades e.g., kitchen cabinets, flooring. You should discuss customization options directly with their sales team. Jude-llow.co.uk Reviews

Does Matthew Homes offer schemes like Help to Buy?

The Matthew Homes website doesn’t specify if they participate in government schemes like Help to Buy.

As the Help to Buy equity loan scheme ended in March 2023 for new applications, it’s less likely for current developments.

You should inquire directly about any available government-backed or developer-specific assistance schemes.

How do I find reviews for Matthew Homes?

To find reviews for Matthew Homes, you should search on independent third-party review platforms such as Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or Feefo.

You might also find discussions on online property forums or homeowner groups related to new builds.

What is the average price range for Matthew Homes properties?

The Matthew Homes website does not provide specific pricing information on its homepage.

Pricing varies significantly by development, property type, size, and location.

To get an idea of prices, you would need to contact their sales team directly or check property portals like Rightmove or Zoopla for specific listings.

Can I visit a show home for Matthew Homes developments?

Yes, reputable new build developers like Matthew Homes typically have show homes available for viewing at their active developments.

Visiting a show home allows you to experience the quality, layout, and finishes firsthand. Sunnahnikah.co Reviews

You should contact the specific development’s sales office to arrange a visit.

How long does it take to buy a new build home from Matthew Homes?

The timeline for purchasing a new build can vary.

If the home is already built, it might take 6-8 weeks from reservation to completion, depending on legal and financing processes.

If the home is still under construction, it could take several months or even longer, depending on the build schedule and your mortgage offer’s validity period.

Do Matthew Homes assist with selling my current property?

Some new build developers offer “part exchange” schemes or referral services to assist buyers with selling their existing homes.

The Matthew Homes website does not explicitly mention these options on its homepage.

You would need to inquire directly with their sales team about any such programs.

Are Matthew Homes properties freehold or leasehold?

Houses from new build developers are typically sold as freehold, while apartments are almost always leasehold.

However, historically, some new build houses have been sold as leasehold.

It is crucial to clarify the tenure freehold or leasehold for any specific property you are interested in with Matthew Homes and your solicitor. Iristech.co Reviews

What is the process for buying a new build from Matthew Homes?

The general process involves: 1 Initial inquiry/viewing.

2. Reserving a plot with a reservation fee. 3 Appointing a solicitor and arranging financing.

3. Exchanging contracts paying a deposit. 5 Monitoring construction if applicable. 6 Final inspection/snagging.

4. Completion final payment and handover of keys. 8 Moving in.

Does Matthew Homes have a dedicated customer service team after purchase?

Reputable developers usually have an after-sales customer service team to handle any issues or defects snags that arise after you move into your new home, within the warranty period.

You should inquire about Matthew Homes’ specific after-sales support process and their responsiveness during your initial discussions.

Are there any shared ownership options with Matthew Homes?

The Matthew Homes website does not indicate whether they offer properties for shared ownership schemes.

Shared ownership is typically facilitated through housing associations in partnership with developers.

If you are interested in shared ownership, you should contact local housing associations or inquire with Matthew Homes’ sales team about their involvement, if any.

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