1. Find a building plot
Tracking down the right site for your project can seem like a headache, but don’t panic – over 13,000 people manage it every year! There are plenty of online resources to help, such as Plotsearch, but often word of mouth is the most powerful tool – so let local residents know that you’re looking to join their community.
2. Arrange finance
One of the first things you need to have in place on a self-build project is funding – and having the finance available right from the start could be crucial in sealing the deal on a plot.
Dedicated self-build mortgage products are now widely available through brokers such as BuildStore Mortgage Services. These work on a stage payment basis, so funds are released at key points throughout your project – either in advance or in arrears, depending on the product you choose.
3. Set a realistic budget
Despite what you might think from watching shows such as Grand Designs, most custom home projects don’t end up turning into money pits. That’s because the majority of self-builders take a sensible approach to budgeting, setting a firm and realistic figure for the project before the design stages begin.
You should always include a contingency – at least 10% of your overall budget is prudent. This money should only be used for unexpected costs during the project, such as additional foundation requirements or unavoidable delays. If you still have the contingency at the end of the build, you can consider upgrading interior finishes or landscaping schemes.
4. Find a designer
Whether you choose a package supplier (who will literally design and build your home for you), an architect or another house designer, be sure to choose someone who understands your requirements is able to produce thoughtful responses that fit with your budget.
Explore architects and house designers from our Architecture & Design directory:
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