A Pre-Reservation Checklist for Buying a New-Build Home

Paying a reservation fee is often framed as a small first step. In reality it is a decision boundary: once paid, momentum increases, options narrow, and walking away becomes emotionally harder even if nothing is legally committed. This checklist helps you pause at the right moment and reserve with clarity rather than relief.

Do you understand the true price?

The headline price, what incentives are included, and whether lenders will value the property at the agreed figure.

Are you comfortably inside your affordability range?

Not just technically approved, but comfortable if rates rise or life changes in the first two years.

Do you know your LTV position with margin?

Being near a threshold leaves the deal exposed if the valuation shifts even slightly.

What happens if completion is delayed?

New-build timelines regularly move, and your mortgage offer, rental situation, and finances all need to withstand that.

Have you read the reservation agreement carefully?

What the fee covers, what triggers a refund, and what exchange deadlines you are agreeing to.