Top Tips for Self-Build Success

Top Tips for Self-Build Success Around 13,000 people embark on a self-build project every year, and this accounts for 7-10% of completed builds. However, a survey by the Building Societies Association (BSA) suggested 53% of people in the UK would consider commissioning a bespoke home to specific design requirements given the opportunity. Starting a self-build can seem daunting but the best advice comes from those who have been there and done it. Take a look at their pearls of wisdom that may give you the confidence to start your own self-build. 1) Understand the Figures and Finances "Understanding the cost of a self-build project is critical, as is making an assumption on your likely return on investment." Fleming Homes "Never accept the first price you're quoted. We estimate we saved around £50,000 by shopping in this way." Heather & Stewart Orr (Handmade Home) "Make sure that you have every item priced fully before signing a building contract rather than relying on provisional sums. If at all possible, select an architect and a builder who have worked together before." Doug Barber (Swiss Chalet in Yorkshire) 2) Learn as Much as You Can "Plan every last detail in advance as though you are working from the inside out, so all the measurements can be calculated precisely." Melissa Gallimore & Tim Banks (Family Bungalow) 3) Choose a Great Team "Make sure you choose an architect wisely, hire a quantity surveyor, and also make a big effort to get on with your builder." Liz & Jonathan Toomer (Spacious Rural Home) 4) Trust Your Instincts "Simple - trust your own judgement" Marcus & Fiona Harling (Oak Frame Lakehouse) "If you're going to build your own house then get professional advice but ultimately stick to your own decisions, because everyone has a different opinion." John Cochrane (Handcrafted Home) 5) Stay Organised "The most important thing for us was to keep an accurate diary, including all decisions, telephone calls and meetings, which was useful in resolving any issues." Tony & Valerie Bradley (Coastal Self-Build) 6) Be Friendly "Make friends with the neighbours and keep them informed of what you are doing ours liked the design of our house and even supplied essential water during the build." James Wragg (Three Storey Home) 7) Enjoy the Process, and the Results "Building our own home has been an exceptionally rewarding experience.' Bill & Angie Jenkins (Stunning Riverside Home) "The best part of the self build process has been the result - the creation of a gorgeous property that looks as if has been sitting in its environment forever." Andrew & Jan Holden (Oak Frame Home) Sources VIBRANTdoors www.homebuilding.co.uk www.fleminghomes.co.uk www.buildstore.co.uk www.parliament.uk www.vibrantdoors.co.uk