With property prices continuing to rise, it seems one of the affordable ways to acquire your perfect house is to buy some land and build it yourself. But without meticulous planning and careful cost control, your dream house could spiral out of control and become a nightmare.
We've put together some tips for would-be self-builders, gleaned from couples who entered their building projects for the Master Builder of the Year Awards 2004. Key areas to consider are:
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House design
- Define number of storeys, rooms, room sizes, parking etc.
- Find an architect you trust and who understands your ideas.
- Enrol the architect in the design as early as possible
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Finance
- Plan the project in meticulous detail, to avoid any surprises
- Enlist professional advice to cover all eventualities
- Don't forget to cost in insurances and warranties
- Look out for special self-build mortgages
- Check out the tax implications
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Finding land
- Have your list of 'musts' e.g. schools, transport, shops
- Be clear on your budget for land purchase.
- Check local papers, estate agents, trade magazines, exhibitions
- Consider knocking down older houses or bungalows
- Consider building within your large garden
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Regulations and planning
- Get planning authority approval early
- All new houses need planning permission - seek the advice and help of an architect, building surveyor or planning consultant to guide you through the planning approval process.
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Forres builder Peter Hizzett of MFJ Homes in front of the home he built for Mr and Mrs Munro
Susan Cooke's home in Pershore built by Worcestershire builders Spectus Construction
Andrew and Jackie Thomas' home in the Vale of Glamorgan built by Cardiff-based Blain Builders
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| » Go to www.buildingarticles.co.uk to read the full article. |
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LOOKING FOR A BUILDER?
Don't forget you can search the FMB's member database, containing 13,000 builders and contractors, at www.findabuilder.co.uk. |
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COMPETITION WINNERS
Colin Fairman of Darlington has won £1,000 cash towards a bathroom project following the bathroom competition. The winner of the Chelsea Flower Show tickets was: Ian Rodger of Caldicot, Gwent. |
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The Essential Guide to Home Improvement |
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For further information check out the FMB's web site at:
www.findabuilder.co.uk
or telephone 08000 152522 for a free copy of The Essential Guide to Home Improvement, which is packed with sound advice on planning home improvement projects, and choosing and working with your builder.
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Are you building, converting, extending or improving your home?
Then a visit to a Homebuilding & Renovating Show near you is a must. |
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Eastern - 3 & 4 July 2004 East of England Showground
London - 10 - 12 September 2004 Wembley Exhibition Centre
Northern - 12 - 14 November 2004 Harrogate International Centre
Tickets available on 0870 010 9031 or click here for more info. |
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