Gerrards Cross is renowned for its distinctive Edwardian family homes that ooze period features. From exposed beams to open fireplaces, these properties always have the proportions, character and charm that attracts many buyers to Buckinghamshire from across the country.

In recent years, Gerrards Cross and the surrounding area have become increasingly popular with developers as a result of the influx of London buyers, attracted by the highly rated local schools and quick links into London. The Woodhaven development to the north of Gerrards Cross in Chalfont St Peter consists of a collection of 20 brand new three and four bedroom luxury homes. Resulting new homes such as these that spring up in the vicinity can leave buyers scratching their heads over which home is right for them; new or old?

New Homes

Peace of mind

New homes make use of the latest fixtures and fittings meaning buyers can expect high quality appliances, state of the art materials and often the reassurance of a 10 year warranty. The peace of mind this brings means buyers can be confident that nothing will go wrong and they won’t encounter unexpected costs and repairs after moving in.

Chain-free

One of the biggest traumas in buying/selling are big chains. Purchasing a new build is often a far less stressful process, as buyers are not entering into a chain with their fingers crossed! There’s also no fear of the developer backing out as they have to sell, often offering discounts such as paid for stamp duty upfront.

Energy efficiency

As the nation becomes more environmentally conscious, new homes can be a much more attractive option for buyers. New homes are often not only greener but, as a result, much cheaper to run. High quality building materials reduce energy wastage while the latest innovative technology attracts buyers. From ground source heat pumps to discrete roof mounted solar panels, new homes are often designed to be both economically and environmentally efficient.

Period Properties

Adding value

Brand new homes can come at a premium, all packaged-up and ready to go. All available space is already maximised and potential reached. With period properties, there’s often potential to add value and improve. Whether that’s by adding an extension, converting the loft or rejigging and refurbing the existing layout, period homes provide ample opportunity to maximise on your investment while creating your dream home in the process.

Big Gardens

Period properties are, on the whole, situated on larger lots with larger garden spaces and more mature trees and shrubbery. It is assumed that with new build properties, plots are often smaller due to developers squeezing in as many units as possible to maximise profits, leaving smaller/tighter gardens as a result.

Location, Location, Location

Older homes are more likely to have been built organically meaning that most period properties find themselves in exceptionally convenient locations with amenities and transportation links on the doorstep. Gerrards Cross is a prime example of this with the most characterful roads of Edwardian homes just a short walk to both the train station and high street.

There is, and always will be, a fascination with these period homes which is great for our market in Gerrards Cross. Nevertheless, as I specialise in land and new homes, I think I know which I’d prefer…