Many people think, often wrongly, that self-build is an option way out of their skill set and price range.
The reality though is very different. Most self-builders don’t self-build for starters! They employ an architect, sometimes a project manager and then all the trades to do the work for them.
So, the only thing you need to know to build your own home is have an idea of what kind of property you would like to build. So things like number of bedrooms, whether you want to build with a timber frame or brick and block or other material. You need to have an idea of what kind of design you would like. Something to fit in with your surroundings or perhaps something quite modern.
A chat with the planners beforehand is a good idea and they may even be able to point you in the right direction of areas where your type of self-build may be accepted more easily than others.
For more information on self-build visit the Jewson guide to self-build homes
Typical costs
The real determination of costs depends on where you live and how difficult (or easy) it is to get materials to your site. The cheaper the area the lower the overall costs.
For example Lincolnshire has more plots available than many areas around the UK. And as a resident of the area, I know you can get some great tradespeople at excellent prices. Many are used to doing self-build as it’s popular in the area and you can get great value materials from the likes of Jewsons.
The rule of thumb though on self-build costs is:-
So if you can get land for £50k, then you are looking at £150k total build.
For more information on self-build visit our guide to self-build homes and do order the FREE Jewson Self Build Pack.
Can you make money on self-build?
Some people who produce a specific spec to make money do very well out of it, but are more likely to run this as a business and therefore will have to pay tax – especially if they do it regularly.
However, if you get your sums right and don’t overspend or over-spec too much, then, on average, your property once it was mortgageable on the ‘open market’, should be worth 30% more than it cost you to build.
Using our example above, this would mean a £150,000 build could be worth £195,000. This does depend on your local market, but it also means you could have a lot of equity in your new home which can help you access better rates.
For more information on self-build visit our guide to self-build homes
How to get good deals on self-build
Whenever you build something, you need to know what you can make savings on and what you shouldn’t stint on. For example, things like nails and screws, any hinges and things like that need to be really good quality, otherwise they break easily and that will cost you – or your contractor a lot more time.
However, there are always ‘deals to be done’ and if you talk to your local Jewson self-build account manager they will help make sure you access the best prices they can secure for you.
For more information on self-build visit our guide to self-build homes and don’t forget to order the FREE Jewson ‘self-build’ pack.
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