Residential mortgage lender Gen H has updated its affordability assessment model to allow buyers of new-build homes to borrow more. Gen H has lowered its living cost assumptions, and this change to the affordability calculation lets buyers borrow a bit more for very energy-efficient homes. The lender said it reflected the lower energy costs typically associated with properties that have higher Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings. New-build homes are generally more energy efficient than older properties, resulting in lower monthly household energy bills. By incorporating these expected savings into its affordability calculations, Gen H said eligible applicants purchasing new-build homes may now qualify for higher borrowing amounts than under its standard lending model.