Off-plan property
The term ‘off-plan property’ refers to property which is available for purchase before it has been constructed. This is where the phrase ‘buying off-plan’ comes from; typically (but not always) relating to apartments.
Off-plan property is sometimes marketed to property speculators who purchase it with the aim of making capital gains by taking advantage of any discounts and selling into a rising market. In a rapidly-rising market, a buyer may even be able to sell the contract on, meaning they have the potential to earn a profit on the property before it is completed.
Off-plan property may also be desirable where an area is in high demand, and purchasers want to secure a future property.
Typically, a deposit of just 10-20% of the property’s value is required to secure an off-plan property. If purchasers then go on to occupy the property, they may be able to choose their preferred fixtures and fittings, etc.
However, there are some risks involved with buying off-plan property, mostly related to the inherent uncertainty of buying something that isn’t actually built at the time of purchase. For instance, the property might not increase in value to the extent that is expected, or at all. This could be to do with a change in market conditions, or due to the location being in an area with low or falling levels of investor demand. Political and policy conditions may have an impact, such as if a planned infrastructure development that would increase connectivity to an area, or a regeneration project, falls through.
There is also no certainty about the completion date for the property. Banks and building societies are increasingly willing to offer mortgage lending on off-plan properties but can stipulate that the property must be completed within a certain time-frame and may withdraw the offer if it is not.
Another risk is that the developer becomes insolvent after the deposit has been put down but before the property has been completed.
There is also the risk that the completed property may not be in accordance with the expectations of the buyer and/or may not be to the desired quality.
For more information, see Reducing the risks of investing in off-plan property.
Off-plan property had come under criticism as a result of a number of developments that have been marketed and sold abroad before they are completed, and without being offered to the local market. This has left a number of developments in London that are sold, but have very low levels of occupancy, having been bought as a 'safe haven' investment, rather than to provide accommodation.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- A guide to investing in off-plan property in the UK.
- Buyer-funded development.
- Developer.
- Hope value.
- Investment property.
- Landbanking.
- Project-based funding.
- Property development finance.
- Real estate investment trust.
- Residual valuation of land.
- Shared ownership.
- Speculative construction.
- Types of development.
- What is a mortgage?
Featured articles and news
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.
Comments