The Buying Process

Banks Homes was born from a desire to create sustainable homes that positively impact on health and happiness.

Influenced by the inspirational homes our customers want, we carefully crafted a new blueprint for contemporary living. One that considers the role and function of each room, to deliver the homes needed for healthier, happier life.

Your customer journey

Find your perfect home

Whether you know where you want to buy or are still browsing, we would recommend you register on our website below. This is easy to do and will ensure you are the first to receive details of the Banks Homes latest releases and the best deals, and our team can help guide you through the process.

 

Step 1: Find your perfect home

A helping hand

Once you have decided on your Banks Homes location, you will be introduced to your friendly sales executive. This person will be with you throughout your journey and always on hand to answer any questions, however small. They will also introduce you to specialist solicitors and financial advisors, who will help you find the best mortgage deals. Whether this is your first home or not, our team has years of combined experience to reassure and help you along the way.

Step 2: A helping hand

Reserved just for you

Once you have found your ideal new home, it is time to reserve it just for you! If you have sold your own house (if you have one to sell), the payment of a £1,000 reservation fee is enough to take the house off the market. The process is easy to follow, and your sales executive will always be there to help. You can also start thinking about your kitchen and bathroom options, although you don’t need to make the final decision just yet.

Step 3: Reserved just for you

The legal bit

Once you’ve reserved your new home, your solicitor will go through everything with you. For our part, we will make sure all the legal considerations are as clear and transparent as they can be. The legal process should take around six weeks, maybe a little longer if there are others in the chain. When contracts are ready to be exchanged, this is when you commit to buying the house, pay the deposit and everything becomes legally binding.

 

Step 4: The legal bit

Personalise your home

The earlier you reserve your new home, the more options you’ll be able to choose from, this is because we build in the options as we go. You can visit our Customer Experience Centres and choose from a large selection of options and upgrades, so you have the home you want as soon as you collect the keys.

Step 5: Personalise your home

Staying informed

We appreciate that buying a house is probably the biggest purchase of your life. To keep you informed of progress, your sales executive will arrange weekly updates and a progress meeting on site during construction. At every stage, we will make sure you are fully informed, and every aspect of your home is built as you ordered.

Step 6: Staying informed

Getting your keys

Excitement has reached fever pitch, and your new home has been checked and is ready for handover. This is the day that you get the keys and will move in! You will receive a demonstration of how exactly how everything works, along with manuals and warranties. And never fear, with your sales executive on site, we are always there to answer any questions, however small!

 

Step 7: Getting your keys

Continued support

We think you’re going to love your new home and being part of the neighbourhood we have created. Our site and customer services team will be on hand to support you from here on. You will have a series of regular visits booked-in to make sure you are delighted with your new home. These are scheduled for your one week, one month and one year after moving in.

Buying a new home is important, and we know that. To help make the whole journey seamless and enjoyable, we will do everything we can at every step of the way.

 

 

Step 8: Continued support

Why choose Banks Homes?

Purchasing the perfect new home is a big decision. So it’s reassuring to know that our homes are some of the most sustainable and energy-efficient you can buy. We’re also continually evolving our designs to make sure your home meets the needs of your family today, tomorrow and for years to come.

We apply the same care and consideration to our specification. Find out more about what you get as standard in a Banks Home.

find out more

FAQs

What is required to reserve a plot?

To reserve a plot, a £250 pre-reservation fee is required, along with the completion of ID checks and pre-reservation paperwork. Once this is done, you’ll need to provide your solicitor’s details and, if applicable, your financial advisor’s details. You will then pay an additional £750 and sign the official reservation form.

The total £1,000 reservation payment will be deducted from the final purchase price of your home upon completion.

Where can I visit a Banks Homes Show Home?

If you’d like to experience the quality and high specification of a Banks Homes development firsthand, we invite you to visit our two stunning 5-bedroom Show Homes at Cathedral Meadows in West Rainton, Durham. We’re open Thursday to Monday, from 10AM to 5PM, and ready to welcome you.

Our friendly team will be on hand to answer your questions and walk you through the features and benefits of life in a Banks Home.

How long does the buying process take?

The buying process typically takes between 6 to 10 weeks, depending on individual circumstances such as mortgage approvals, solicitor progress, and the build stage of the home you’re purchasing. If the property is already near completion, the process may be quicker. Our team will keep you updated at every stage to help ensure a smooth and timely move.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?

In addition to the £1,000 reservation fee (which is deducted from the final purchase price), you may need to budget for legal fees, mortgage arrangement fees, and Stamp Duty (if applicable). Our sales team will guide you through an affordability schedule, outlining the expected ongoing running costs of your new home. You’ll also be provided with details of any management charges associated with the development. For a full breakdown tailored to your circumstances, we recommend speaking with your solicitor and financial advisor.

Do I need a solicitor, and when should I appoint one?

Yes, you’ll need a solicitor to handle the legal aspects of your purchase. We advise appointing your solicitor as soon as your reservation is complete, so the conveyancing process can begin promptly. If needed, we can recommend trusted local solicitors familiar with our developments.

Can I choose finishes or upgrades for my new home?

Yes, depending on the stage of construction, you may be able to choose from a range of kitchen styles, flooring options, tiling, and other finishes. We also offer optional upgrades to personalise your home further. Our sales team will guide you through the available choices at your reservation appointment.

What happens after I move in?

Once you’ve moved in, our Customer Care team will be on hand to support you during the initial settling-in period. We’ll provide a full Homeowner’s Pack with guidance, contacts, and information on your new home. A post-completion snagging appointment will also be arranged to ensure everything meets your expectations.

What kind of warranty comes with the home?

All Banks Homes come with a 10-year structural warranty provided by a recognised warranty provider (such as ICW or Premier). Additionally, we include a 2-year builder’s warranty covering fixtures, fittings, and finishes, giving you added peace of mind.

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Get help with financial advice by speaking to our panel of experts. InTouch Financial one of our panel advisors will be able to assist you to find the best mortgage rates and shop around to suit your own personal circumstances.

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