New Developments vs Established Property – Which is the better investment?

For investors looking to buy real estate, there’s two options; buying new or established. And for one leading property adviser, the answer about which is best is simple.

Michael Yardney, director of Metropole Property Strategists, says for the majority of investors, established property is a far better option than investing in a new development. This is because capital growth potential is greater with established, he says.

Yardney says those buying a home to live in can be forgiven for being dazzled by “shiny-new” properties, but “in the real estate game, new is definitely a no-no if you’re looking for the ideal investment.”

The only exception is if an investor can afford to be a developer, Yardney says. “If you can build a new project at cost, by all means go for it!”

When buying a new property, buyers don’t just pay for the actual house, they also hand over a heap of cash straight to the developer, Yardney explains.

“This is because to make a profit, they build not only their margins into the price, but their marketing costs. Therefore, you end up paying a premium,” he says.

By “buying well” – either at or below the property’s intrinsic value – in the established market, investors can end up paying below replacement cost and make a capital gain almost instantly, Yardney says.

When buying established, buyers can negotiate a great deal and pay a fair price, as well as enjoying immediate capital growth in most instances, he says.

“Additionally, buying an established property that needs some TLC can mean paying substantially less than it might be worth if you have the ability to look past the cosmetic flaws and see the potential.

Often you will have less competition for tired or messy buildings because most people just see too much hard work,” Yardney says.

Then investors can value-add with smart renovations and cosmetic upgrades, something that’s hard to do in a new development, where everything is done.