Finding a perfect new build in London
We have broken down the home-buying process in London into five clear, sequential steps. Following this path helps you secure your finances, select the ideal property, and complete your purchase safely.
Once you know your budget, it is time to start looking for the right new home. And perhaps the first thing you need to know is the desired property size. For example, a single buyer will benefit from a studio with an open floor plan, while a family should consider a 2-bed flat. Once you know your desired square footage, it is time to pick and save several attractive options.
Choosing a Floor Plan
When choosing a property size, it is vital to remember that most apartments offer different floor plans. For instance, a spacious 1-bed flat with an open floor plan might be a more favourable option than a poorly arranged 2-bedroom apartment.
Always review the room dimensions and layout diagrams provided by property developers. Modern London new builds often feature open-plan living areas that maximise natural light and storage spaces, making them feel significantly larger than their actual square footage suggests.
Utilising PropTech
It is much easier to choose a perfect property size and floor plan with the help of PropTech solutions and similar services, which include digital interior design apps and virtual walkthroughs.
These tools are highly beneficial when buying off-plan property, as they allow you to walk through unbuilt rooms in virtual reality. See how similar flats in London differ from each other, compare the net internal area (NIA), and try to select several attractive options that match your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Net Internal Area (NIA) is the usable space within the usable perimeter walls of a property. It excludes structural columns, common lift shafts, and external walls. When comparing new builds, always look at the NIA to understand the actual living space you are purchasing.
Open-plan layouts combine the kitchen, dining, and living rooms into a single fluid space. This design removes unnecessary corridor walls, maximising natural light, improving air circulation, and making smaller properties feel spacious and highly functional.
A studio apartment combines your bedroom and living area into one room with a separate bathroom, making it highly affordable. A 1-bedroom flat has a separate bedroom, providing more privacy. If you work from home or host guests regularly, a 1-bedroom flat is usually the preferred choice.
It depends on the construction stage and developer. If you reserve a unit very early in the off-plan stage, some developers allow you to choose custom finishes, partition walls, or kitchen layouts. However, major structural changes are rarely permitted due to building regulation approvals.
You can use virtual 3D walkthroughs, virtual reality (VR) headsets at developer marketing suites, and interior planning apps. These technologies help you visualise ceiling heights, furniture placement, and room scales before the physical building is constructed.
