Thinking of taking the plunge and designing and building your own dream home? This article may take away some of the doubts you have and get you started on the project.

The Plot

Finding the perfect plot can be the first stumbling block. Take your time, consider not just the plot itself but also the general location. What are your priorities? Physically list them and try to rank the points in order of importance.

• Rural, suburban or urban?
• How close to services (shops, doctors etc) do you need to be?
• Are the quality of the schools important?

Funding

How are your funds? You’ll probably have to pay ‘cash’ upfront for your plot of land. Then in due course, there is the build, decorating and furnishing. Reach 4 Mortgages can help you find that right self-build mortgage, giving you the finances to complete your ‘dream’ project.

Managing

If you have ever watched one of television’s house/home build programs, you will know how important managing the budget is! Self-builds can quickly eat in to your funds, so keeping accurate, digital records is very important.

We would always suggest having a contingency fund. You should only touch this as a last resort. Hopefully, it will still be there at the end and so you can use it towards the landscaping/furnishing. Or even a holiday – you may well need one!

The Architect

Ask around and/or take references. You may find an architect and builder who have worked well together in the past. A good relationship here can be crucial.

Passing the Plans

No work can start without planning permission from the local council and building control approval. Your architect and builders should be adequately insured, but do you need extra cover?

The Build

Hopefully, your builders will have organised the clearance of the plot and any drainage issues. Once sorted, your typical build will follow these stages:

• Foundations
• Walls and roofs
• Weather tightening (doors and windows)
• First internal fixing (electrics, plumbing, woodwork and plastering)
• Second internal fixing (sockets and lighting)
• Decorating and landscaping
• Finished!

If you have got thoughts on getting started on a self-build contact us now at Reach 4 Mortgages and we will help find and guide you through the self-build mortgage process.