Buying a New Build Property in Accrington: Our Ultimate Guide

Hello, I’m Matt Johnson, a property partner at Alexander JLO Solicitors. If you are contemplating the purchase of a new build property in Accrington, you’re in the right place. This guide will explore the benefits and potential pitfalls of buying a new build, alongside valuable information about the local area, housing market, and lifestyle in Accrington. Whether you are a first-time buyer or looking to invest, understanding this market will help you make informed decisions.

What are New Build Properties?

New build properties are newly constructed homes that have not been lived in before. They can take many forms, from apartments to family homes, often found in developing areas or new estates. New builds are appealing due to their modern amenities and the opportunity to personalise them to your preferences.

Benefits of Buying New Build Properties

1. Modern Amenities and Design

One of the most significant draws of new build properties is their modern design. Spacious layouts, integrated technology, and energy-efficient features are common. Buyers can expect contemporary kitchens, spacious living areas, and bathrooms equipped with the latest fixtures.

2. Warranties and Guarantees

When purchasing a new build property, most come with a warranty that covers structural defects and major issues for the first ten years. This reassurance helps alleviate concerns about potentially costly repairs early in your ownership.

3. Energy Efficiency

New build homes typically meet modern building regulations, making them energy-efficient. This can significantly reduce your utility bills compared to older properties, which may require a lot of energy to keep warm or cool. Features like proper insulation, double glazing, and efficient heating systems make new homes more sustainable.

4. Customisation Options

Many developers offer a range of choices regarding finishes and fixtures. This allows you to create a living space that reflects your personal style before moving in, making it truly feel like your home.

5. Lower Maintenance Costs

New builds usually require less maintenance initially. With everything brand new, you can expect fewer repairs or upkeep issues for several years. This peace of mind can greatly enhance your living experience.

Potential Pitfalls of Buying New Build Properties

1. Construction Delays

One of the most frustrating aspects of purchasing a new build is the risk of delays in construction. This can occur for various reasons, including supply chain issues and adverse weather. These delays may disrupt your moving timeline and can lead to added expenses.

2. Unforeseen Issues

While new builds come with warranties, they are not entirely free from defects. Problems related to plumbing, electrical systems, or cosmetic touches might arise. Conducting a thorough inspection before completion is crucial to identify any potential issues.

3. Additional Costs

New build homes can incur additional costs that may catch buyers off guard. These can include service charges for shared spaces, ground rents, and fees for upgrades. Understanding the complete financial picture is essential before proceeding with your purchase.

4. Developing Areas

New builds are often located in developing areas. While regeneration can enhance property value over time, the lack of established local amenities, such as schools or shops, might be a concern during the initial settling-in period.

5. Resale Concerns

The resale value of new builds can be unpredictable, especially in the early years. You may find that the property’s value fluctuates based on the broader housing market. Conducting in-depth market research before buying is essential to assess your potential return on investment.

Living in Accrington: A Community Overview

Accrington is a vibrant town in Lancashire, located approximately 20 miles north of Manchester. Known for its thriving community, Accrington offers residents a blend of urban and rural living, with easy access to nearby cities and picturesque countryside.

Local Demographics

Accrington has a diverse population that combines families, young professionals, and retirees. The town has established itself as an affordable residential area, making it popular among first-time buyers. Several local schools and community centres contribute to a family-friendly atmosphere, making it inviting for people of all ages.

Highlights and Things to Do in Accrington

Accrington offers a variety of attractions and activities for residents and visitors alike. Here are some highlights:

– Accrington Market: A bustling local market where residents can find fresh produce, local goods, and unique crafts. Visiting the market is a great way to support local businesses while enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere.

– Oakhill Park: This beautiful park provides a relaxing green space for families and individuals. It features walking trails, sports facilities, and picnic areas, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities.

– Accrington Stanley Football Club: The local football club has a rich history and a strong community following. Attending a match at the Wham Stadium provides an exciting experience for sports fans and enhances local pride.

– Haworth Art Gallery: Known for its impressive collection of art and beautiful gardens, the Haworth Art Gallery offers cultural enrichment for residents. It often hosts exhibitions and events that showcase local talent.

– Local Festivals: Accrington hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from food to music. These events provide opportunities for residents to connect with one another and engage with the community.

Average Property Prices in Accrington

Understanding property prices is crucial when considering your budget. As of recent data, average property prices in Accrington generally range from around £120,000 for a two-bedroom house to approximately £250,000 for larger family homes in desirable areas. The affordability of homes makes Accrington attractive for first-time buyers and investors looking to enter the property market.

Navigating the Buying Process

Engaging a Solicitor Early

As you embark on the journey of buying a new build property, I strongly recommend engaging a solicitor early in the process. An experienced solicitor will provide essential guidance throughout the entire transaction. They can help you navigate the legal aspects of the purchase, conduct property searches, and ensure compliance with local regulations.

At Alexander JLO Solicitors, we commit to providing our clients with expert legal support, ensuring a smooth and stress-free buying experience. By involving us early, you can address potential issues before they arise and maintain open communication throughout the process.

Researching Developers

Before committing to a new build property, take the time to research the developer’s reputation and track record. Investigate their previous projects and customer reviews to assess overall satisfaction. A reputable developer will have a solid history of delivering quality homes and meeting customer expectations.

Exploring Financing Options

Purchasing a new-build property often involves unique financing options, including shared ownership (more details specific to that can be found in our blog here).

Shared Ownership

Shared ownership schemes enable buyers to purchase a percentage of a new-build home while renting the remaining share. This option makes homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers.

Traditional Mortgages

Standard mortgages are available for new-build properties, but some lenders may have specific criteria regarding the property’s completion status and value.

The Process of Buying a New Build Property

When you decide to purchase a new build property in Accrington, following a structured process will help you navigate each stage. Here’s a step-by-step guide that outlines the key steps involved in acquiring a new build:

1. Research Developments

Begin by researching various new build developments in Accrington. Focus on reputable builders who have a strong track record of delivering high-quality homes. Consider the location, available amenities, and price ranges.

2. Determine Your Budget

Engaging a mortgage advisor will help you assess your financial situation. Understand your budget regarding the deposit, mortgage options, and any associated costs. This understanding is vital for making informed decisions.

3. Visit Show Homes

Show homes provide an excellent opportunity to see the quality of construction and layout options. Visiting these properties can help you determine which features are essential for your lifestyle, potentially guiding your decision-making process.

4. Reservation

After selecting your ideal property, you will likely need to make a reservation. This process typically involves paying a small fee to hold the property while you complete legal and financial checks.

5. Engage a Property Solicitor

Choosing a property solicitor with experience in new builds is critical to your success. At Alexander JLO Solicitors, we specialise in guiding clients through the conveyancing aspects of buying new properties, ensuring a smooth and compliant transaction.

6. Stay Informed About Progress

Keep in communication with both the developer and your solicitor regarding any updates throughout the construction process. Knowing the timeline helps you prepare for your eventual move-in date.

7. Exchange Contracts

Once all preliminary checks are complete, you will exchange contracts with the developer and pay a deposit. This step solidifies the sale agreement and secures your property.

8. Completion

At completion, you will take possession of your new home. Conduct a thorough walkthrough before moving in to ensure everything meets your expectations and is in good condition.

9. Settling In

After moving in, take your time to unpack and make your new house a home. Familiarise yourself with the community, visit local shops, and connect with neighbours to build a sense of belonging.

Developers Active In and Around the Region

Here’s a list of just a few of the developers currently active in and around the area.

Barratt Homes — Barratt builds large-scale suburban and urban schemes across the North West, delivering family houses, affordable homes and infrastructure. Recent examples include Woodford Garden Village near Stockport and several Manchester-area developments. The company focuses on sustainability, community amenities and phased delivery to create long-term neighbourhoods that meet local demand.

Redrow — Redrow specialises in higher-spec family homes and masterplanned communities. In the North West it leads Kings Moat Garden Village in Chester and contributes to Woodford Garden Village near Stockport. Redrow emphasises traditional design, green spaces and local facilities while offering a range of three to five-bedroom homes for first time buyers and growing families.

Taylor Wimpey — Taylor Wimpey operates a broad pipeline across Greater Manchester Cheshire and Lancashire, delivering mixed-tenure suburban and urban housing. Local examples include phases at Kings Moat Garden Village and multiple Greater Manchester sites. Taylor Wimpey focuses on volume delivery, energy efficiency and partnerships with local authorities to supply affordable and market housing.

Persimmon Homes — Persimmon delivers volume housing across the North West, targeting first time buyers and family purchasers. Its regional activity includes Burnley schemes, Merseyside projects and suburban developments around Manchester. Persimmon provides a wide house type mix, competitive pricing and developer incentives to accelerate sales while coordinating with local services and infrastructure provision.

Bellway — Bellway builds a mix of starter homes family houses and apartments across the region. Notable North West projects include Old Brook View in Oldham and Royal Gardens in Blackpool. Bellway focuses on design quality, energy efficiency and neighbourhood connectivity, often including play areas landscaping and contributions to local transport or school improvements.

Vistry Group — Vistry delivers large regeneration and mixed-tenure projects across Greater Manchester and Merseyside, combining private sale, affordable housing and section 106 contributions. The group works with local authorities and housing associations to regenerate brownfield sites and deliver balanced communities, emphasising long-term management and sustainable construction practices in its regional schemes.

Story Homes — Story Homes focuses on regional developments across Lancashire and Cumbria, offering well specified family houses and neighbourhood amenities. Examples include Ashton Grange near Lancaster. Story targets practical layouts energy efficiency and local character, often building in semi-rural or suburban locations attractive to commuters and families seeking larger gardens and community facilities.

Countryside Homes — Part of the larger Vistry Group, Countryside builds medium to large suburban schemes that combine market sale homes and affordable units. Regional examples include Hartshead View in Oldham and The Fairways at Brackley Village. The developer aims to deliver mixed housing tenures, on-site green space and linkages to local services while working with planning authorities on sustainable place making.

Genesis Homes — Genesis specialises in quality regional developments in Lancashire and neighbouring counties, with projects such as Olive Green View near Lancaster. The company concentrates on higher-spec finishes, energy efficient measures and bespoke layouts. Genesis often targets buyers seeking improved specification and design in accessible commuter locations close to local centres.

Keepmoat Homes — Keepmoat focuses on affordable housing, regeneration and mixed-tenure neighbourhood projects across the North West. The firm works closely with councils and housing associations to provide social rented homes shared ownership options and market housing on brownfield and redevelopment sites. Keepmoat emphasises delivery speed, community benefits and long-term neighbourhood management.

Some current developments in and around Accrington include:

The Hambledons — Persimmon Homes’ Hambledons on Marlborough Road delivers modern 2–4‑bed family houses close to Accrington amenities and the M65. The development emphasises contemporary layouts, practical gardens and commuter convenience, appealing to growing households and first-time movers.

Lockside Walk — Located on Whalley Road in Clayton‑le‑Moors near Accrington, Lockside Walk provides 2–4‑bed homes offered through Shared Ownership and Rent‑to‑Buy. The scheme expands affordable housing choices for local buyers and movers seeking part‑purchase routes and accessible commuter links.

Willows Park — Set in a semi‑rural pocket of Accrington, Willows Park features 2–3‑bed houses that combine countryside views with proximity to Accrington train station. The development targets commuters and small families desiring quieter living without sacrificing transport connectivity.

Charter Street Development — A regeneration of a former railway site in central Accrington, this newly approved multi‑tenure project will deliver 40 affordable houses and cottage flats. Designed to boost local housing supply and town‑centre renewal, it prioritises accessibility and community reinvestment.

Preparing for Your Move

Preparing for your move is an essential part of ensuring a smooth transition into your new home. Here are some practical tips to help you along the way:

– Notify Relevant Institutions: Make a list of all organisations that need your new address, including banks, utilities, schools, and subscriptions. Notifying them ensures a seamless transition.

– Packing: Start packing well in advance of your moving day. Label your boxes for easy unpacking, and take special care with valuable items to avoid damage.

– Essentials Kit: Create a personal essentials kit containing necessary items for the first few nights. This may include toiletries, a change of clothes, and basic kitchenware.

– Explore Your New Neighbourhood: Before you move, spend time exploring your new neighbourhood. Visit nearby parks, shops, and restaurants. Building familiarity will make your transition easier.

Moving In: Preparing for Your New Home

Shortly before completion your solicitor will be advised of the completion date. This is where the fun can begin!

The first thing to do before completion is to prepare a snagging list.

Carrying out a snagging list before the completion of a new-build property is crucial for ensuring that the home meets the expected standards of quality and workmanship. A snagging list is a detailed inventory of any minor defects or unfinished work that need addressing before final acceptance of the property. This process typically involves a thorough inspection of the home, allowing buyers to identify issues such as paint defects, poorly fitted doors or incomplete installations. Addressing these concerns before completion ensures that the buyer receives a home that is in optimal condition and reduces the likelihood of disputes later on.

The importance of a snagging list extends beyond mere aesthetics; it also serves as a protective measure for the buyer’s investment. Many issues may not be immediately apparent once the buyer moves in, leading to costly repairs or alterations down the line. By having a snagging list, buyers can communicate their concerns to the developer and enforce accountability for resolving any identified issues. This proactive approach can save both time and money, facilitating smoother interactions with the developer and helping to uphold the standards expected from a new build.

Moreover, having a snagging list reinforces the concept of consumer rights in property transactions. Buyers are entitled to a high level of quality and workmanship, and a snagging list helps to document any deviations from the agreed specifications. This documentation can be advantageous if there are ongoing disputes regarding the property’s condition or if further issues arise after moving in. Ultimately, conducting a thorough snagging inspection empowers buyers to take ownership of their new home while ensuring that it adheres to the necessary construction standards, providing peace of mind in their investment.

Once your purchase is complete and you have the keys, it’s time to prepare for moving in:

Utilities and Services

Set up utility accounts for water, gas, electricity, and internet services. This will ensure a smooth transition into your new home.

Interior Design and Furnishing

Consider interior design options. Plan how to furnish each room based on your preferences and functionality.

The benefits of having Alexander JLO Solicitors on board for your new-build purchase

Choosing Alexander JLO Solicitors for your new-build conveyancing services offers numerous benefits that set us apart in the competitive property market. Our strong relationships with a wide network of local and national developers enable us to provide clients ensure that your purchase proceeds as smoothly and as rapidly as possible. While we maintain full independence, our collaborations ensure we can negotiate best terms and streamline the purchasing process. Our commitment to always acting in the best interests of our clients means you can trust that we will guide you through every step, ensuring a seamless transition into your new home.

One of the distinguishing features of Alexander JLO Solicitors is our proactive approach to conveyancing. We understand that time is of the essence in property transactions, and as such, we often pre-approve legal paperwork with developers and their legal teams to expedite the process and avoid unnecessary delays. By identifying and resolving potential issues in advance, we help ensure that transactions proceed smoothly and that crucial deadlines are consistently met. This foresight not only alleviates stress but also makes certain that our clients can move into their new properties without unforeseen complications.

With many years of experience in the property market, Alexander JLO Solicitors is adept at handling a diverse range of transactions, from shared ownership and leasehold flats to multi-million-pound freeholds. Our extensive knowledge allows us to provide tailored advice that addresses the unique challenges of each property type, ensuring our clients receive informed and effective legal support. By choosing us for your new-build conveyancing needs, you gain a trusted partner committed to safeguarding your interests and facilitating a successful property acquisition.

As a property partner at Alexander JLO Solicitors, I believe the key to a successful home purchase lies in thorough research, clear communication, and understanding the various dynamics within the real estate market. With my expertise, I aim to guide you through the process of securing your new build property, ensuring a smooth transition into your new home. Embrace the exciting journey ahead as you embark on this significant milestone.

Conclusion

Purchasing a new build property in Accrington can be an exciting opportunity, offering modern living in a vibrant community. While there are numerous advantages such as contemporary design, warranties, and energy efficiency, potential pitfalls like construction delays and additional costs must also be considered.

I hope this guide has offered valuable insights as you navigate the process of buying a new build property in Accrington. At Alexander JLO Solicitors, my team and I are here to support you through this journey. If you have any questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out. Embrace this new chapter in your life and enjoy all that Accrington has to offer.

As with any investment decision, when buying a property it’s vital that you do your homework carefully. As well as fully researching the location and market that you are looking to buy in, it’s vital that you seek advice of experts, including surveyors and financial advisors. Alexander JLO, its Partners and employees cannot provide specific advice on choice of location or the market but can advise on all matters legal once you have made a decision to buy a property.

If you are looking for a first rate conveyancing service why not give one of Alexander JLO’s specialist property lawyers a call on 020 7537 7000, click on the get a quote button or email quote@london-law.co.uk for a free, no-obligation quotation? Come and see what we can do for you.

This blog was prepared by Alexander JLO’s property partner Matt Johnson on 13th July 2026 and is correct at the date of publication. Matt has many years of experience of dealing with property work and specialises in new build and shared ownership properties.  His profile on the independent Review Solicitor website and be found here