Mr Skill

Many people have discovered that building their own home can work out cheaper and “greener” than simply buying an existing property. That’s not to say that you personally need clear the land, put in the footings and then lay every brick yourself before roofing out. It’s more about managing the processes than taking on a complete DIY project yourself. 

The Different Choices  

You can choose from several different options when it comes to building your own home: 

• Self-build DIY – Here, you do most of the work yourself, only contracting licensed operators to complete matters of a plumbing or electrical nature.
• Manage the Process – You control everything, rather than do the work. This includes the surveyor, the architect, and all the tradespeople who do the physical tasks.
• Appoint a Contractor – Find your general builder right here on Mr-Skill, and let them manage the project from start to finish.
• Buy from a Reputable Developer – This option includes the land, planning permission, as well as a number of home designs for you to choose from. The developer then has all the headaches.
• Purchase a “Kit Home” – This involves selecting from among a limited number of approved designs offered, and appointing the kit home company to complete your new home. 

Budget Carefully 

• Calculate all the costs in detail and then stick to your budget throughout the project. Don’t forget to include the cost of land, tradespeople, materials, professional consultations, local authority charges, insurances, accommodation and transport. Keep a contingency fund for the unexpected too. 
• Arrange comparative general building quotes. You will be surprised when you sit down and compare apples to apples, especially when you use a contractor from Mr-Skill.

Unless you are fortunate enough to have sufficient funds available to cover the costs, you are going to need a mortgage. Lenders will apply strict conditions, so have your planning and paperwork properly prepared before you approach them. 

Planning Permission 

After the outline building plans have been drawn up, you must visit your local authority to familiarise yourself with all their rules and conditions. This will include land suitability and a whole host of other requirements that you will need to factor into your planning before you can start to build. 

One of our London general builders confirms that this is an important starting point, and that all the checks and balances are there for the general good. Sure, it may seem like red tape to you, but just consider what our towns and cities would look like if there were no controls in place.