I thought I would ask on here as there seem to be quite a lot of people who have bought new houses. We are looking at buying one but there a few things we aren't sure about, having never bought new before.

Are most builders negotiable on price or is it pretty much fixed? How about things like carpets can you ever get them included if they aren't as standard? Anything else you can negotiate on?

How do you go about getting carpets fitted, I guess you can't even get it measured up until you have bought it and moved in.

I hope these question aren't too stupid!

With regards to price, I don't think they really budge, unless you can negotiate if it is close to the threashold for stamp duty. We bought a new house four years ago and the carpets were all included... a big help as it was our first house. You can usually have the carpets fitted for an additional amount as well as integrated appliances, wardrobes etc. It all depends on the development. Where have you got in mind?
We are now moving to another development and the items included are completely different from what they were 4 years ago. Hope that helps. If you want any more info, pm me.

We have bought new in the past, and the price has never been negotiable. We thought this was an advantage as there was no one to out bid us.

What is and isnt included depends on the developer, but there's no such thing as a free lunch, so if carpets and white goods are included, you can be sure you are paying for them ... and some more...

i would say it depends on your circumstances and also the developer
and if its close to a developers year end (june/dec) this is when they push to hit targets

if you are in a good position get them to include carpets and white goods for a quick exchange

I've found that different builders include different things and it depends at what stage of the build you buy. For example if the house is already finished they will want to get rid of it and are more likely to include carpets etc. (But you miss out on the chance to choose your own kitchen, tiles etc)

In the more expensive houses they often seem to include stamp duty, built in appliances etc.

You can order carpets before you move in based on rough measurements - I used Allied (now closed down) and they fitted all my laminates and carpets before I moved in. (Barratts allowed this even though I hadn't actually completed. I also got them on interest free credit!

I agree with everyone else - have always found the price to be fixed, so at least you know where you are. But again they sometimes discount towards the end of a development to get them all sold.

Speak to the negotiator on site - they should be able to answer any questions.

Thanks for the replies, atleast I can speak to the sales person now without looking like a wally for asking for daft things!