How to Choose the Right House | New Move 2026 Guide

How to Choose the Right House for You: A 2026 Perspective

Buying a house is a significant financial decision, and in February 2026, the landscape has shifted. With house prices virtually flat compared to last year and average wages up by 4.7%, buyers currently have more negotiating power and choice than they've seen in over a decade. Here is how to navigate the modern market to find your perfect home.

1. Master Your 2026 Budget

Before you fall in love with a property, you must understand your actual buying power in today’s economy.

• Get a Decision in Principle (DIP): With choice at an 11-year high, sellers are prioritising "proceedable" buyers. In early 2026, average 5-year fixed rates have settled around 3.73% to 4.4%.
• New Stamp Duty Rules: Remember that thresholds changed in April 2025. First-time buyers now pay 0% only up to £300,000. For standard moves, the 0% threshold is back to £125,000.
• Check High LTV Options: Lenders are currently offering more 95% and even some 100% "track record" mortgages than we’ve seen since 2008.

2. Define Your "Modern" Needs and Wants

Post-2025 lifestyle trends have changed what makes a house "right":

• The "Hybrid" Space: Look for homes with dedicated office nooks or "garden rooms." With hybrid work now the standard, a spare bedroom isn't always enough.
• Energy Performance (EPC): With energy costs still a primary concern, look for an EPC rating of C or higher. Homes with solar potential or heat pumps are now fetching higher resale values.
• EV Readiness: Does the driveway have a charging point, or is the fuse box modern enough to support one?

3. Do Your "Micro-Market" Research

Don't just look at the town—look at the street. In 2026, market data is more accessible than ever.

• Sold Prices: Check what similar homes on the same street actually sold for in the last 6 months, not just the asking price.
• The "Hero" Amenities: In areas like Crawley or Turners Hill, proximity to full-fibre broadband hubs and "green corridors" (like the Worth Way) are major value drivers.

4. The Viewing Checklist: What to Ask in 2026

When you visit a property, look past the staging and ask the agent these critical questions:

• "Why is the owner moving?" (This helps gauge their urgency).
• "How long has it been on the market?" If it’s been listed for more than 12 weeks in this high-stock market, there may be room for a bold offer.
• "What is the mobile signal and broadband speed like?" (Check your phone bars in every room!)
• "Are there any neighbour disputes on record?" Sellers are legally required to be honest if asked.

5. Trust the Professionals (and Your Gut)

• Work with a Trusted Agent: Local independent agents like New Move can often give you the "inside track" on properties before they even hit the major portals.
• The Survey: Never skip an RICS Home Survey. In 2026, digital surveys can even include thermal imaging to check for heat loss—worth every penny for long-term savings.
• The Feeling: If a