New-build homebuyers could be owed thousands over alleged price inflation

[Adsibob]

I know this site is more for self-build than for buyers of new-build, but posting this anyway as it's pretty significant imo:

https://consumervoice.uk/homes/housebuilders-claim-new-build-buyers-compensation/

[MPx]

Interesting - actually taking action against "cartel" like activity.  On the other hand, the further I've gotten into self build, I simply don't understand how building houses is a viable business even at their inflated prices.  On our last one (sold mid 2025) we broke even if you ignore 10 years of inflation and all the free labour - so a massive loss of wealth in reality - glass half empty ; or we lived in luxury rent free for a decade - glass half full?  The current one is shaping up much worse.  Looking like it will cost approx 150% of its market value to build despite me doing everything for "free" post water tight shell.  Doesn't bother us as we do it for ourselves and have exactly what we want (which is the entire point of doing it) - but we have realised some understanding of why new builds are thrown together with appalling quality when you see how cheap they need to sell them vs the costs of build and materials.