It might sound rather obvious but making sure your furniture will fit in your new home is just one the things it is important to consider when buying a new property.

Another point to take into account are which way does the house face – if it is south facing then the sun will help warm it.

These are just a few of the tips from the National House Building Council which has come up with a list of tips for those moving.

It says questions to ask include: l Condition of the site – is it tidy and well managed? Look out for NHBC Pride in the Job flags or site boards, as an award-winning site manager is a very good indication that your new home will be built with quality workmanship in mind.

Which way does the house face? – south facing windows can improve the energy efficiency of a home, because solar energy warms the walls and floors of a building, but north facing windows offer a more consistent quality of light.

Timescales – when is the house likely to be completed and ready to move into ? It is natural to want to move as quickly as possible but your chosen plot could be a few months from completion, especially if you are buying off-plan.

Personalisation – which areas of the house can you personalise to your own taste? In most cases, you will be able to choose the kitchen and bathroom finishes, but depending on the build stage you may also be able to reposition radiators or add electrical sockets.

Will my furniture fit? – take measurements of large items such as beds, sofas and dining room tables, and then measure up the space in the show house to check that your belongings will fit. It is also a good idea to see what storage is available for vacuum cleaners, etc.

Consumer Code for home builders – the code gives protection and rights to purchasers of new homes. Ask to see a copy of the code, and make sure that you are protected during each stage of the buying process.

Energy efficiency – ask to see a copy of the home's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) as this will give you a good indication of how energy efficient the home is, and how much the utility bills are likely to cost. Ask if the home has been fitted with any renewable technologies that may reduce bills even further.

Council tax banding – find out which council tax band the house will be allocated to, and what the current yearly charge is for that band. The sale price of the house may not necessarily be an accurate guide, as bandings are based on what a similar property would have been worth in 1991.

The wider community – check the full site plan to see where open spaces, parkland and play areas for children are planned, as well as new facilities such as schools, GP surgeries and local shops. This will give you a sense of how the community will develop over time.

Peace of mind through warranty cover – is the builder registered with NHBC? Check before you visit at www.nhbc.co.uk If the property is covered by NHBC’s ten-year Buildmark then you are covered even before the home is completed.

For more information, and to download a handy checklist to take with you on your site visit, please visit nhbc.co.uk/ homeowners/guidanceand advice