How To Build Your New Home In 7 Easy Steps
If you plan on building your own house, you should be fully prepared for what is to come. The process may take months or even a year to complete. Because of this, you will need to do your research and determine the exact requirements of your dream home. Below you will find a step-by-step guide which will help you navigate this challenging but highly rewarding project.
Explore Funding Options
You will need to think about your finances right from the start. This aspect is crucial in any self-build project and can help you seal the deal on a plot. Besides funding the build itself, you will need to take into consideration architectural designers’ fees as well as the required site surveys. It is likely that you will need to apply for a self-build mortgage where funds will be released in key stages throughout your project. In addition, the Help to Build scheme is a government equity loan which you may be able to qualify for.
Consider Self-Build Insurance
A self-build insurance is strongly recommended to cover structural damage which may occur during a new build. It is a specialist insurance policy that will cover you, your builders and your building site at any stage of the process. You can obtain Self-Build Warranty through Buildsafe and protect yourself and the home you are building during construction work. Without insurance, there is always a risk that something can go wrong, especially during a long project. This is a service that will allow you to focus on the day to day operations by providing you with peace of mind.
Find A Suitable Location
Another major decision to make is finding a suitable plot of land. Your choice depends on your budget and the availability of land. This means you will probably need to extend your search to ensure you select the perfect location. As a starting point, you are advised to speak to local and online estate agents, browse property websites and look at land auctions. Remember to consider accessibility to main roads. Also, investigating crime levels will help you determine the safety of the area. If you have a family, you should also check the local schools.
Buy A Building Plot
After finding a plot that ticks all the boxes, you will need to put in an offer so you can build your new house. It is recommended to treat the asking price as an opportunity for negotiation and offer an amount you are happy with. If you have had your mortgage approved, you can go with a lower price initially but worth checking your mortgage calculator. You can always put in a second offer if the first one is not accepted. Moreover, when you build your own house, you will only need to pay stamp duty on the cost of the plot instead of the value of the completed property.
Contact Your Local Authority
If you want to make sure that your project is viable, it is worth contacting your local authority. Most planning departments will offer pre-application advice where you can have an informal discussion with a planning officer. Some authorities may charge for this service, so it is worth checking first. This meeting will provide you with an insight into what is likely to be accepted or declined in terms of materials, style, and size. It is a great way to find out what your chances are of receiving planning permission when you apply.
Enlist A Reliable Team
To ensure everything stays on track, you will need to choose your team carefully. To help you make the best choice on contractors, be sure to use review websites and get recommendations. Choosing the right architect will also be important to build your dream home. You should be able to request examples of their past work and possibly client testimonials. Discuss your requirements and ideas with them during initial meetings. This will help you choose a professional who understands your needs and produces thoughtful responses that can fit your budget and needs.
Outline A Realistic Plan
It is vital to be as specific as possible in your requirements. However, you will also need to be flexible on certain occasions. Ensure you have determined the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you would like to have. Consider whether you would need a garden or a patio. Think about how large each room should be and what your main priorities are. In addition, while you are working on your self-build project, you will need to find a place to live. This may include staying with friends and family, renting accommodation, or constructing a temporary home on site.
Building a house from scratch may be a daunting project that requires your full attention and energy. However, by following these simple tips, you will be one step closer to achieving your dream home.
