Demand for stunning new homes is on the increase amid a return to confidence in the market but buyers are placing greater emphasis on style and design to meet their 21st century aspirations.

This is the view of James Greenhalgh, managing director of Isle of Man family-owned property developers Hartford Homes.

“Buyers want the property of tomorrow but they want it today,” he declared.   “Up to date new homes with a 10 year guarantee, coupled with value for money, is what buyers are looking for. This is why we are seeing properties on new developments selling off-plan before the foundations are even laid.”

His comments come as Hartford Homes unveils a development of 14 four and five bedroom detached homes amid the leafy lane setting of Briarville Gardens, Ramsey.

“These are modern ‘Grand Designs’ styled homes, designed to deliver and satisfy  the aspirations of our buyers, including large open out sliding folding doors, open plan living, modern specifications and  the mix of cedar and crisp white render.

“They are properties at prices that start at ?319,000, which doesn’t put a stylish, design driven four-bedroom detached home outside the budget of potential buyers.  We set out to build homes that people want to buy, we have to appeal to customers.

“New build is relatively small compared to the overall housing market on the Island so our main competitor is the second-hand market.  Therefore, we look to provide something better than what has gone before by raising the bar to ensure everything we deliver is attractive to those who want to buy.”

He added: “Briarville Gardens, with its exclusivity, is yet another example of how we believe in constantly evolving our house types and meeting purchasers’ all important aspirations.  Modern, in terms of Hartford Homes. is never boring.” 

Photo - James Greenhalgh