Custom & Self-Build Blog
The UK 's Help to Build finance scheme for self build mortgages with high LTV/ Loan to Value and just 5% Deposit
The UK's Help to Build scheme was initiated to support individuals who wish to build their own homes by making self-building more accessible and affordable. Below are some of the pros and cons associated with this scheme.
In the Help to Build scheme, eligible individuals can currently spend up to £600,000 on their new home, which must include the land cost unless already owned, with a cap of £400,000 on construction costs. To qualify, individuals must be 18 or older, have a right to live in England, plan to reside in the newly-built home as their sole residence, and secure a self-build mortgage from a lender registered with the scheme.
We understand that as of October 2023 the Help to Build scheme is under review and may well have changes made to it. Hopefully this improves the scheme and its availability rather than limits it.
Pros:
Government Support
The scheme is backed by the UK government, which has set aside funds to help lower the mortgage rates for self-build projects.
Lower Deposit Requirement
Typically, self-build mortgages require a hefty deposit, but with the Help to Build scheme, individuals can get a mortgage with only a 5% deposit.
Equity Loans
The scheme provides equity loans similar to the Help to Buy scheme, making it easier for people to secure the necessary funding. In London, the government tops up a 5% deposit with an equity loan of up to 40%, while in other parts of England, the equity loan is up to 20%.
Interest-Free Period
The equity loan is interest-free for the first five years, which can significantly lower the cost of building a home in the early years.
Encouragement of Custom Builds
This scheme encourages the custom building of homes, allowing individuals to create homes tailored to their needs and preferences.
Cons:
Limited Scope
The scheme only applies to custom or self-build homes in England, leaving out other parts of the UK.
Cap on Property Value
The scheme has a cap on the property value, which might not cover the cost of building in certain high-cost areas.
Complexity
Self-building a home can be a complex and daunting task, especially for individuals without prior experience in construction or real estate. Even with the financial support from the scheme, the process of self-building can be challenging and time-consuming.
Potential for Increased Costs
While the scheme aims to lower upfront costs, self-building can often lead to unexpected expenses that can make it more costly than buying a pre-existing home.
Market Risks
The market value of self-built homes can be unpredictable, and there's a risk that the home's value might depreciate over time, or not appreciate as much as a pre-built home would.
The Help to Build scheme is a significant step towards making self-building a viable option for more people, but it also comes with challenges that prospective self-builders need to consider.
How UK Accident Victims Can Secure Compensation & Invest in a Self-Build Accessible Home with the Help of a Turnkey Builder & Occupational Therapists
Accidents can have profound and long-lasting impacts.
Beyond the immediate physical and emotional trauma, victims may grapple with long-term challenges, especially if they suffer from serious injuries. The UK has established a comprehensive system to ensure accident victims receive the assistance and compensation they rightfully deserve.
Additionally, with astute financial planning and the expert guidance of occupational therapists, this compensation can be a pivotal tool for a brighter, more comfortable future.
Here's a guide on how accident victims in the UK can secure compensation, and with the aid of occupational therapists, invest in a tailor-made self-build or custom-build turnkey accessible house.
1. Securing Compensation:
Report the Accident:
Once immediate medical concerns are addressed, it is crucial to report the incident. This could be to the police (for road traffic accidents or criminal injuries) or to the relevant authority (like an employer or local council).Seek Legal Advice:
Engaging a solicitor specializing in personal injury claims can offer invaluable guidance. They can provide clarity on the claim's viability, potential compensation figures, and shepherd the victim through the intricate process.Gathering Evidence:
Supporting the claim necessitates gathering substantial evidence, including photos of the accident site, witness accounts, and medical records.Negotiation & Settlement:
A majority of personal injury claims are settled outside court. The liable party (or their insurer) may propose a settlement. Legal representation during these negotiations ensures that victims attain a just amount.Court Proceedings:
Should an agreement remain elusive, the claim might proceed to court. Both parties present their arguments, and a verdict is rendered regarding culpability and compensation.
2. Investing in a Self-Build Accessible Home with the Assistance of Occupational Therapists:
Consulting an Occupational Therapist:
Occupational therapists play a pivotal role in assessing a victim's needs post-accident. They can provide insights into specific home modifications and features that can aid in daily living and enhance mobility and independence.Finding a Suitable Self-Build Building Plot:
Identify a self-build plot that aligns with the requirements for an accessible lifetime home set out by the occupational therapist, considering aspects like location of the house, proximity to essential services, and ground suitability.Planning & Design:
Engaging a specialist architect familiar with accessible house requirements is key. With input from the occupational therapist, they can blueprint a self-build turnkey house that addresses the victim's unique needs – from wider doorways and ramps to specialized bathroom fittings, hoists, wheelchair friendly lower kitchens, easy access electrical switches and home automation and much more.Secure Necessary Permissions:
Prior to construction, acquire planning permissions from the local council. It's imperative that the design conforms to all stipulated building regulations.Construction:
Opt for a specialist turnkey builder such as Cherish Homes who has a track record of crafting accessible homes with all the requirements for wheelchair access if needed and all the other specialist requirements that your occupational therapist and others can advise you on. Ensure that the construction aligns with the occupational therapist's recommendations and the architectural specifications.Final Assessment:
After construction, have the occupational therapist evaluate the home again. They can suggest any final tweaks or additions to make the space perfectly suited to the victim's needs.
Conclusion
Accidents, while harrowing, don't at all spell the end of a very fulfilling life and a home that you can enjoy to the full. The UK's legal and construction realms offer avenues for victims to reclaim their autonomy and also pay for a new and suitable accessible home.
Proper legal counsel ensures rightful compensation, and with the expertise of occupational therapists, these funds can be effectively channeled into crafting a custom accessible house. Such a home not only meets physical needs but also offers a sanctuary for healing and rejuvenation.
Self-Build Accessible Lifetime Homes: Custom Build House Design for a Better Future
The world is rapidly recognising the importance of inclusive design, and homes are no exception. Accessible lifetime houses not only offer practical solutions for those with unique physical needs and wheelchair access requirements but also ensure that every individual, irrespective of their physical condition, can live comfortably and independently. Whether you're planning to self-build on a plot of land or replace an existing dwelling, an accessible home is a worthy investment for various reasons.
Cherish Homes work with Dan-Wood, the specialist home builder and self-build turnkey accessible homes are a standard choice from Dan-Wood and can then be further modified to suit your exact needs before building.
Cherish Homes can design you a perfect accessible home and then provide a fixed price quotation to aid with your claim for damages. Cherish Homes are a wheelchair friendly accessible home builder.
Understanding Accessible Homes
At its core, an accessible home is designed with universal design principles in mind. This means that the home is crafted in a manner that is usable by everyone, regardless of their age, ability, or status in life.
Some features commonly found in accessible homes include:
No-step entry:
No one needs to use stairs to get into a standard entrance and with a wider doorway too.
One-story living:
Everything one needs, including a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, is available on one level. Live in carer rooms or suites are also an easy to supply options
Wide doorways and hallways, and open plan options:
This makes the space wheelchair-friendly.
Lever door handles and rocker light switches:
These are easier to use than knobs and standard switches. We can also provide home automation such as one switch by the front door to turn on or off all lights you require.
Bathroom supports:
Grab bars and non-slip flooring are vital for bathroom safety.
Movement throughout the property:
Hoists in rooms and between rooms designed and built into the ceiling for ease of use and none of the difficulties and compromises of trying to modify an existing home.
Building or Retrofitting an Accessible Lifetime House
Self-build on a plot:
For those venturing into a new build, the world is your oyster. You have the freedom to design your home from scratch, ensuring every aspect caters to accessibility needs. Incorporate wide spaces, lower countertops, raised electrical outlets, and other such design elements right from the start.
Replacing an existing dwelling:
Retrofitting an existing structure can be more challenging but is not impossible. The process usually involves widening doorways, installing ramps, remodeling bathrooms, and making the kitchen more functional for wheelchair users.
The Experts Behind the Lifetime Home Design
Creating a truly accessible home requires the expertise of specialist architects and builders who understand the nuances of universal design. These professionals are trained to envision a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
With their experience:
Architects craft a blueprint that seamlessly integrates accessible features without compromising on the home's visual appeal. In a way, think of it as a self build accessible home but with a team around you to support the turnkey, hassle free delivery of your lifetime house
Specialist Package Builders such as Cherish Homes and Dan-Wood that we work with ensure that every feature is implemented correctly, guaranteeing the safety and comfort of the occupants.
It also means you are dealing with an expert in delivery of the additional required features such a hoists, specially designed kitchens with accessible levels, electronic ease of use facilities such as simpler lighting control, accessible external doorways, wider doorways and corridors and much more.
The Impact of Accessible Life Time Homes
Accessible homes are an essential requirement for:
Accident and medical negligence victims:
Recovery is much smoother when one's surroundings support your physical needs.
Individuals with congenital disabilities:
A home tailored to your requirements allows for a more independent life.
Those battling illnesses:
Progressive diseases might make mobility challenging. An accessible home is a proactive approach to ensure comfort in the later stages and is a true lifetime home.
Elderly individuals:
As mobility becomes an issue with age, features like grab bars, ramps, elevators or lifts and wider hallways can make daily tasks less daunting.
In Conclusion
Accessible lifetime homes are more than just houses with ramps or wider doors for easy wheelchair access; they represent a shift in societal thinking, placing emphasis on inclusivity and empathy. Investing in an accessible home is an investment in a future where every individual, irrespective of their physical condition, can live a life of dignity, comfort, and independence.
Cherish Homes are your ideal wheelchair-friendly accessible house builder so please get in touch today.
Self-Build Bungalows: A Comprehensive Guide
Building a bungalow, with its single-story charm, is an attractive prospect for many homeowners.
Whether you're planning to downsize or simply prefer the aesthetic of a bungalow, self-building provides a chance to create a bespoke home tailored to your needs.
Many people with accessible needs for a wheelchair user - or with just limited mobility - find bungalows are the perfect solution to their needs.
In this article, we delve deep into the world of self-build bungalows, covering timber frame options, the nuances of design, planning applications, and choosing the right builder.
1. Why Choose a Bungalow?
Bungalows offer a variety of obvious advantages:
Accessibility: They are deal for those with any mobility challenges, as there are no stairs to navigate and getting to all of the rooms in the property is relatively easy.
Open Layout: Well designed bungalows can come with open floor plans, which are extremely airy and versatile.
Expandability: Bungalows have the potential for expansion, like converting the loft or extending outward should your circumstances ever change.
2. Timber Frame Bungalows: A Sustainable Choice
Timber frame construction is a popular choice for self-build bungalows. Here’s why:
Eco-friendly: Timber is a renewable resource, making timber frame homes more sustainable.
Speed: Timber frames can be erected quickly, often in a matter of days.
Insulation: They offer excellent insulation, which substantially help reduce energy costs.
Flexibility: The structure allows for various architectural designs and finishes.
3. The Journey of Building Your Own Bungalow
Building a bungalow from scratch can be both rewarding and challenging. Here's a basic road-map:
Design: Begin with an idea of the layout, size, and special features you want.
Site Selection: Choose a suitable plot, considering factors like location, size, and orientation.
Budgeting: Set a realistic budget, accounting for any unforeseen expenses.
Planning Application: Submit the design to local authorities for approval.
4. Specialists in Bungalow Design and Planning Applications
Seeking professionals can make your self-build journey smoother:
Architects: They can provide unique designs tailored to your needs, optimising space and aesthetics.
Planning Consultants: They can help navigate the complex world of local planning regulations, ensuring that your application is approved.
5. Finding the Right Builder
While you might be tempted to manage the build yourself, hiring a builder experienced in bungalows can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s what to look for:
Experience: Check their portfolio for bungalow projects.
References: Ask for and check references. Talk to previous clients about their experiences.
Transparency: They should provide clear quotes (preferably fixed for 12 months or so), timelines and communication.
In Conclusion
Building a self-build bungalow is an exciting venture. With the right planning, team, and vision, you can create a home that's perfectly tailored to your lifestyle. Remember to research extensively, seek expert advice, and enjoy the journey of bringing your dream home to life.
The Guide to Self-Build in the UK
When you first consider a self-build project in the UK, the idea can be both daunting and exhilarating. Yet, the ability to craft a unique space that resonates with your personality and needs is a journey worth embarking upon.
To help you through this venture, this self-build blog aims to consolidate information from various self-build blogs and resources to provide a comprehensive guide and help you on your journey to building your own home, with the help of the self-build specialist Cherish Homes if you would like to call upon professional and expert assistance !
1. Starting Off: Choosing a Builder for Your Self-Build House
The first decision in your self-build journey is to decide whether you'll personally oversee the project or hire a builder. If you're leaning towards the latter, regions like Cheshire and Manchester are teeming with experienced professionals. Firms like 'self build builder Cheshire' and 'self build builder Manchester' have showcased stunning projects that balance aesthetics with functionality.
2. Location Matters: Where to Build in the UK?
Different locations come with their own distinct vibes. From the rustic charm of Lancashire to the breathtaking landscapes in Wales, there's no shortage of stunning locations for your self-build homes in the UK. Here's a brief look at some popular choices:
Self-build homes Cheshire:
Cheshire boasts a blend of urban and rural settings with some fantastic villages and towns that are all well connected to the travel system, making it versatile for various design aspirations and lifestyle.
Self-build homes Manchester:
Manchester is modern, vibrant, and culturally rich, perfect for urban dwellers. Finding a plot nearer to the city of Manchester can be a challenge but we have helped people build their ideal self build home in and around Manchester.
Self-build builder North West:
Covering a broad region, the North West of England offers diverse options from the hustle and bustle of Liverpool to the tranquil Lake District in Cumbria.
Self-build builder Wales:
For those drawn to scenic landscapes and rich history, Wales offers a unique backdrop for a self-build and we have built several self build homes there.
3. Designing Your Dream: Self-Build House Design
Arguably the most exhilarating phase is designing your space. While some may opt for traditional designs, others might pursue contemporary or avant-garde styles. Resources like 'self build house design' can provide templates and inspiration to craft your dream home.
4. Dive into Self-Build Blogs and Communities
Engaging with the community is invaluable. Not only do you gain insights from experienced self-builders, but you also get to share, connect, and learn from various challenges and success stories. Exploring 'self build blog' or delving into niche 'self build blogs' provides a wealth of knowledge.
5. The Market: Self-Build Houses for Sale in the UK
For those not keen on building from scratch but are interested in purchasing self-build properties, the UK has a thriving market. From 'self-build homes UK' listings to specific 'self build houses for sale UK', there's something for every budget and taste.
6. Region-Specific Builders
Should you need local expertise, several builders cater to specific regions:
Self-build builder Lancashire: Known for their craftsmanship and understanding of the local terrain.
Self-build builder Cumbria: Experts in integrating homes into the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District.
Self-build Cheshire: Tailored services for those aiming to build in the heart of Cheshire.
In Conclusion
Embarking on a self-build journey in the UK is not just about constructing a house; it's about building a home that echoes your essence. With the right resources, experts, and community support, your dream home is within reach. Happy building!
Self-Build Package Homes for Self-Builders in the UK: The Smart Choice for Hassle-free Construction
Building a home is a dream for many and one that Cherish Homes is a specialist in helping with.
While the idea of crafting every corner of your abode sounds enticing, the reality of managing all the intricate elements of a self-build can quickly become overwhelming. Enter self-build package homes — a solution that's gaining traction among self-builders in the UK. But what exactly are self-build package homes and why are they proving to be such a boon for aspiring homeowners? Let's dive in!
What are Self Build Package Homes?
Package homes, sometimes also referred to as 'kit homes', ‘flat pack homes’, ‘turnkey homes’ or 'self-build packages', provide a comprehensive solution for self-builders. They offer a single-source approach, where a package company such as Cherish Homes supplies most, if not all, of the materials and related services required to build a house to a turn-key finished level. This can range from design and planning permission assistance, to the actual materials for construction, and the labour to put it all together and project manage it.
Benefits of Opting for Self Build Package Homes
Simplicity & Time-saving:
One of the most appealing benefits of self-build package homes is the simplicity they offer. Instead of juggling various suppliers, builders, and tradespeople, self-builders can deal with just one turnkey building company. This cuts down the time spent on managing different aspects and helps avoid the inevitable pitfalls of coordinating multiple vendors.
Cost Predictability:
Self-Build package homes allow for a more predictable budget. Since you're purchasing a comprehensive package, it often comes at a fixed or semi-fixed price, reducing the chances of unexpected costs cropping up during the construction phase.
Quality Assurance:
When you opt for a package home, the components are typically manufactured in controlled environments, ensuring consistent quality. Plus, package companies have a reputation to uphold, making them more likely to provide high-quality materials.
Customisation:
While you might think a package limits your choices, many companies offer a range of designs that can be tailored to your preferences. This means you can still have a unique home, without the hassle of starting from scratch.
Support and Guidance:
For many self-builders, constructing a home is uncharted territory. Self-build package companies often provide assistance throughout the process, from securing planning permissions to resolving on-site issues. This guidance can be invaluable for first-time builders.
Reduced Risk:
Managing a self-build project involves numerous risks, from sourcing the right materials to ensuring that they're compatible. With a package home, these risks are significantly reduced, as the company typically guarantees the compatibility of products and services.
Fixed Price Build:
Experienced specialists like Cherish Homes can provide fixed cost quotations for all parts of a self build house project if required which takes the risk out of your self-build budget management.
Why Choose a Self-Build Packaged House Over Traditional Self-Building?
While traditional self-building offers a certain level of freedom, it comes with its set of challenges:
Complex Project Management:
Building a house involves coordinating numerous trades and suppliers. This can be daunting and time-consuming.
Budget Overruns:
With various suppliers and unforeseen challenges, costs can quickly escalate beyond what was initially budgeted.
Quality Discrepancies:
Sourcing materials from different suppliers can result in inconsistent quality.
Increased Responsibility:
The onus of ensuring every phase goes smoothly lies with the self-builder. Any oversight can lead to delays or increased costs.
In contrast, package homes streamline the entire process. By entrusting the major components of your build to experts in the field, you can enjoy the excitement of building your own home, minus the stress.
Conclusion
For self-builders in the UK, buying a self build package house from a provider like Cherish Homes offer a fantastic alternative to the traditional building route. While the dream of constructing your own home from scratch is romantic, the realities of managing a project of such magnitude can quickly become overwhelming.
Self-Build packaged homes alleviate many of these challenges, presenting a more straightforward, less risky, and often more cost-effective solution. If you're considering building your own home, it might be time to think inside the box – a beautifully designed, high-quality package home box!
The Ultimate Guide to House Designs and Prices for Self-Builders in the UK
Building your own home is a dream many of us hold close to our hearts. With the UK's rich architectural history and the modern inclination towards sustainability and personalisation, the self-build market has never been more vibrant. If you're a potential self-builder in the UK, understanding house designs and prices is crucial to making your dream home a reality.
Let's dive into the world of custom-built home designs, bespoke options, and everything in between.
Custom Built Home Designs:
Custom built home designs have become a popular choice for those looking to add a personal touch to their homes. Think of these designs as a blank canvas, where every wall, room, and detail can be tailored to your preference. Not only do they allow for unique architecture, but they also cater to the personal needs of the homeowner.
Bespoke House Designs:
While custom-built designs offer flexibility, bespoke house designs take personalisation to another level. These are not just homes; they're art pieces that tell a story. From gothic-inspired homes reminiscent of old England to contemporary styles, the only limit is your imagination.
Designs of Homes:
The generic term 'designs of homes' encompasses a broad spectrum of architectural styles. Whether you're keen on a traditional Victorian house, a sleek modernist dwelling, or a cottage-style home, the UK housing market offers a plethora of choices to suit every taste.
Designs of Homes to Build:
Before laying the first brick, you must consider the feasibility of the design. Designs of homes to build are architectural plans tailored for the construction process, ensuring your dream home is both beautiful and buildable.
Free House Designs:
For those on a tighter budget or just beginning their self-build journey, there are numerous free house designs available. While they might not have the same level of personalisation as custom or bespoke plans, they offer a solid foundation (pun intended) to start from.
Home Build Designs:
Home build designs are, essentially, the blueprints of your construction process. They guide every step of the journey, ensuring that every beam and brick is perfectly placed.
Home Building Designs:
While similar in name to the above, home building designs often refer to the broader concepts and ideas surrounding the construction of homes. This could range from sustainability practices to innovative construction techniques.
Home Designs and Prices:
One of the most crucial aspects for self-builders in the UK is understanding home designs and prices. Depending on the complexity, materials, and size of your chosen design, prices can vary significantly. It's essential to get an accurate estimate early on to ensure your project remains within budget.
Home Designs and Prices to Build:
It's not just about the design; it's about how much that design will cost to build. These estimates combine the cost of materials, labour, and any other expenses to give you a clear picture of your project's financial requirements.
House Designs:
At its core, building a home is about creating a space that resonates with you. House designs span the gamut from classic to contemporary, minimalist to extravagant. The key is to find a design that feels right, a place you can truly call home.
Conclusion
The journey of building your own home in the UK is both exciting and challenging. With the right knowledge about house designs and their associated costs, you're well on your way to creating a home that's uniquely yours. Whether you opt for a custom-built masterpiece, a bespoke creation, or start from free designs, remember that the end goal is a house that you're proud to call home.
Contact Cherish Homes today to see what house designs we already have that could suit your needs, or let us bespoke a house design just for you. We can also provide fixed prices for the construction of your self-build home.
Designing a Self-Build House to Suit Your Lifestyle
Building your own house is not just about creating a place to live; it's about designing a space that truly reflects your lifestyle, personal preferences, and vision. This kind of customisation is a unique opportunity to create a self-build house that fits you like a glove. In this article, we will explore how to design a self-build house that harmoniously fits your lifestyle, using several examples to illustrate how personal living preferences shape the design considerations.
Understanding Your Lifestyle
The first step in the process is understanding your lifestyle. How you spend your time, what activities you value, your work habits, social preferences, and family life are all critical aspects to consider. Your lifestyle is more than just your hobbies—it includes your everyday routines, future plans, and even your aspirational ideals.
Example 1: Remote Work
As more people work remotely, designing a home with a dedicated workspace has become increasingly popular. If you're a remote worker, your self-build house could incorporate a home office with ample natural light, ergonomic furniture, and soundproofing for quiet concentration. This space should ideally be separate from the main living area to ensure a balanced work-life separation. Consider incorporating high-speed internet infrastructure and built-in shelving or storage for work materials.
Example 2: Eco-Conscious Living
For those who prioritize sustainability, a self-build house offers an opportunity to integrate eco-friendly features right from the start.
For instance, you could design your house for passive solar gain, meaning you take advantage of the sun's heat and light to reduce energy consumption. Incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient appliances can make your house environmentally friendly.
Using sustainable, locally sourced building materials and planning a small, efficient floor plan can further reduce your ecological footprint.
Example 3: Outdoor Enthusiasts
If you love spending time outdoors, your home design should reflect this passion. A self-build house for outdoor enthusiasts could feature large windows and doors that open onto patios or balconies, bringing the outdoors in and offering easy access to the outside. You might also include a mudroom for storing outdoor gear, a large garage for recreational vehicles, or even an outdoor kitchen for alfresco dining.
Example 4: Lifetime Home
If you're planning to stay in this home for the rest of your life, designing with aging in place in mind is essential. This could involve creating a single-story layout, ensuring the ground floor has all the necessary rooms or including a modern residential elevator for easy access to the upper floor.
Wider doorways, lower counter-tops, non-slip flooring, and walk-in showers can make the house more accessible as mobility decreases and we have experience of doing this and indeed providing fully accessible self-build homes.
Final Considerations
Beyond reflecting your lifestyle, a well-designed self-build house should also consider the local environment and climate, the shape and orientation of your land, and local building regulations. It's also important to plan for change. Our lives evolve, so a degree of flexibility or adaptability can help your home continue to fit your lifestyle in the future.
Designing a self-build house is a complex but an extremely rewarding task, offering a unique opportunity to shape your surroundings to your own personal taste and lifestyle.
With thoughtful planning, your home can be more than just a place to live; it can be a true reflection of who you are and how you choose to live. We are here to help you design your perfect home, to suit your lifestyle perfectly !
Mastering the Art of Self-Build Homes: A Comprehensive Guide for the UK Market
If the idea of constructing your dream home excites you, then welcome to the wonderful world of self-builds!
Building your own house provides the unique opportunity to design every inch of your living space according to your preferences. Although this journey can be daunting, especially in the UK with its unique planning permissions and regulations, it can also be incredibly rewarding.
Here are some easy steps to guide you through the process.
Set Your Budget:
This is the crucial first step in your self-build journey. The budget should include land costs, construction expenses, professional fees, and a contingency fund for unexpected costs. Remember to account for the cost of living during the construction period.
Find a Plot:
The next step is to find a suitable plot of land. Websites like PlotBrowser and Plotfinder can help you find available sites in your desired location. It’s essential to consider the location's accessibility, local amenities, and planning restrictions. A site survey and soil test are recommended to understand the plot's suitability for construction.
Secure Financing:
Most traditional mortgages do not apply to self-build projects, so you’ll need a self-build mortgage. These loans release funds at different stages of the build, reducing the lender's risk and helping you manage cash flow.
Design Your Home:
Whether you opt for an architect, an architectural technologist, or choose to self-design using software, ensure your design caters to your lifestyle needs and stays within budget.
Seek Planning Permission:
Once the design is ready, you’ll need to apply for planning permission from your local authority. While this process can be time-consuming, the Planning Portal's website provides a wealth of information to help you navigate it.
Building Regulations Approval:
Your designs must comply with UK Building Regulations to ensure the health and safety of the building's occupants. It is advisable to consult a building control surveyor to review your plans and carry out inspections during the build.
Choose Your Build Route:
You can opt for a self-managed build, hiring contractors directly, or engage a project manager. Alternatively, consider a package company, like Dan-Wood, which can provide a 'one-stop shop' for your needs, managing the design, planning permission, and construction process.
Start Building:
The construction phase begins with preparing the site and laying the foundation, followed by constructing the walls, roof, and interiors. Opting for modern construction methods like closed panel systems can be a time-efficient and sustainable choice. Dan-Wood, for instance, offers homes built using these energy-efficient techniques, which can be particularly beneficial for self-builders.
Fixtures and Fittings:
Once the house is weatherproof, the focus shifts to the interiors. From plumbing and electrics to kitchens and bathrooms, the choice of fixtures and fittings will largely depend on your budget and personal preference.
Snagging and Moving In:
After construction is complete, conduct a thorough snagging process to check for any minor issues or defects that need to be fixed. Once these are rectified, it's time to move into your newly self-built home!
Remember, patience and preparation are key in a self-build project. While the process may seem overwhelming, the reward of a home tailored to your exact requirements is priceless.
Happy building!
How to Build Your Own House: The Charm of Self Build Homes in the UK
If you've ever dreamt of creating a home that fits your vision perfectly, then embarking on a self build project might just be your ideal journey. Self build homes have seen a considerable rise in popularity in the UK, offering an exciting alternative to the traditional house-buying process.
But what does it mean to be a self builder, and why should you consider it? Let's delve into the captivating world of self building.
The Allure of Self Build Homes
When you choose to build your own house, you are embracing an opportunity to create a home that reflects your style and needs precisely. Rather than compromising on pre-existing designs, self build homes empower you with the freedom to tailor every corner of your living space. From energy-efficient designs to luxury features, the choice is yours when it comes to self building.
The Self Builder: A Visionary and a Creator
So, who is a self builder? A self builder is someone who takes control of their house construction or renovation, overseeing the project from concept to completion. They are visionaries who aren't afraid of getting their hands dirty, eager to see their dream homes come to life. As a self builder, you can choose to be involved as little or as much as you want, depending on your skills and the time you can commit.
The Self Build Process: From Blueprint to Reality
The process to build your own house in the UK can be divided into several key stages, each vital in the self build journey.
Planning:
Before you start, it's essential to understand the planning regulations in the UK, which can often seem daunting to first-time self builders. It's advisable to engage with an architect and, if necessary, a planning consultant who can guide you through the process.
Designing:
This is where the self build truly shines - bringing your vision to life. You can work with one of our architects or choose from a range of pre-existing self build home designs available through Cherish Homes.
Building:
The crux of the project where your home begins to take shape. You can choose to hire contractors or, if you're up for it, take on some of the tasks yourself. cherish Homes makes the process much easier though and can deliver a turnkey new home build for you, and at a fixed price.
Finishing:
This is where your home becomes livable. Painting, plumbing, electricity - these final touches breathe life into your house, turning it into a home.
The Rise of Self Build Homes in the UK
The self build homes sector in the UK is vibrant and growing. The UK government is encouraging this trend, providing more opportunities for individuals to build their own house. New laws, including the Right to Build legislation, make it easier than ever for prospective self builders to find and acquire land for their projects.
With an increasing focus on sustainable living and energy efficiency, self building provides a golden opportunity to incorporate these principles right from the planning stage.
Many self builders are creating homes with green technologies, such as solar panels and geothermal heating, which not only benefit the environment but also lead to substantial savings in the long run.
Conclusion
The journey to build your own house can be challenging, but the reward of living in a space that's entirely tailored to you makes the process worth it. The self build homes trend in the UK is an exciting movement that gives power back to the homeowner, turning the dream of customising your own living space into a reality.
As a self builder, you'll become a part of a thriving community of individuals who value creativity, individuality, and the hands-on experience of building their homes from the ground up.
So, why not embrace the self build journey and create your dream home exactly as you've always imagined?