As a nation we Brits love to try things before we invest our hard earned cash in a purchase. When we purchase a new car we take it for a test drive to see whether it is suitable for our needs, when we buy new equipment such as a computer we ask for a demo so that we can see if it meets our requirements, and we even like to sample food and drink before we are prepared to take the plunge. Why is it then that with the largest investment of all – purchasing a property – all we manage to get is a quick look around the property before we have to decide whether or not we want to invest tens or even hundreds of thousands of pounds?

Well, according to a recent report this could now all change, and we could enjoy the opportunity of ‘trying’ a house before we decide whether or not to purchase. The scheme has been launched by house builder who are convinced that this sort of scheme could really boost the sale of new build properties, particularly amongst the over 55s age group, where consumers often exercise far more caution and are less likely to jump in feet first without knowing more about the property and the area.

The scheme involved enabling potential buyers of a property to spend one or two nights in the property in order to get a feel for the home, find out whether the facilities and amenities are suitable, and learn more about the locals and the area. The potential buyer does not have to pay anything to ‘try’ the property out, and the ability to do this can offer real peace of mind to potential buyers and can seriously impact upon their decision as to whether or not they should make the investment.

An official from Bovis Homes said: ‘Moving house can be a very big decision for older homebuyers, giving up a home they have lived in for 20 or 30 years. This service gives buyers the opportunity to experience both the new home and the lifestyle available in our developments, giving them that extra peace of mind that they are making the right move.’

Bovis Homes is trialling the scheme in its retirement sector.

The scheme seems to be a hit with consumers as well. One woman that went to look at a property said: ‘We were in two minds, but a two-day stay really swayed us. When we initially looked at the flat we wanted, it was completely empty so it was hard to tell what it would be like. The Try Before You Buy apartment was fully furnished so it gave us a real feel for what it would be like to live in the development.’

Another consumer that went to look at a property in Weston-super-Mare also tried the try and buy scheme, stating: ‘During my stay I joined in a Saturday afternoon tea in the owners’ lounge and everyone made me feel so welcome. I stayed for two hours talking and got a really good idea of things to do in Weston-super-Mare.’

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