One-on-one interview:Phillip Hughes, PH Property Holdings Ltd

Continuing his ongoing series of interviews with senior figures in the new homes industry, WhatHouse? speaks this week to Phillip Hughes, managing director at PH Property Holdings Limited.

What regions do you cover?

We cover the North West of England, predominantly south Manchester.

What are housing market conditions currently like in those areas?

There has been a lot of media coverage about the housing market in recent times, some good, some bad, but we have only seen a small impact at the very top end of the market. We are currently enjoying high levels of interest in all our current sites with a number of sales off-plan. This tells us the market is very strong for the types of quality projects we are undertaking.

What types of properties is your firm developing?

We develop a broad spectrum of properties including three-bedroom luxury apartments, three-, four- and five-bedroom semi-detached and detached family homes, barn conversions and the restoration of a Grade II-listed manor house.

How much does a new home by PH Property Holdings Limited typically cost to buy?

Our new builds typically range from £300,000 for our more commercial properties, to £1m for our more prestigious builds.

Should more buyers consider buying a new-build home as opposed to older property?

Yes definitely. One key advantage is the general cheaper running cost of a new-build. This can be due to many factors borne out of modern building techniques, such as insulation, modern heating and lighting systems that truly save money. We are also using more efficient appliances, longer-lasting fixtures and fittings in bathrooms and kitchens that save on short-term repair or maintenance liabilities.

Is it worth buying property during the off-plan stage of construction?

Definitely. Buying off-plan gives the purchaser an opportunity to tailor the house to their requirements. As well as this, it allows for them to choose the best plots in terms of aspect, garden size, and so forth. In the event of a rising market, securing a house early will mean that it will have increased in value before you've even moved in.

What is PH Property Holdings Limited's USP?

We acquire small to medium-sized sites in the very best locations in order to create exclusive developments of homes featuring higher-quality design, materials and levels of specification above the competition. We understand the growing demand for high quality, which is why we are now moving into the family homes market, as we feel this audience is becoming equally as discerning.

Which of the developments PH Property Holdings Limited is currently developing do you think stands the best chance of winning a WhatHouse? Award?

Hulme Hall, located in Cheadle Hulme.