Self-Build Homes – The Ultimate Guide to Self-Build Homes
Making the decision to self-build a property can be extremely daunting. Not only is the process of self-building a home extremely time-consuming there is a lot that can go wrong.
Although there is a lot of risks in the process it is very achievable and with the right planning, nowhere near as daunting as you might think.
In fact, the process of completing a self-build property will leave you with a feeling of achievement and satisfaction that simply buying a property will not provide.
You will be designing and building a home that is exactly how you want it to be.
What defines a self-build?
A self-build property is a home or building that has been built based on the owner’s specific specification from the ground up. This can be on a fresh plot of land or by demolishing an existing structure to start again from the ground up.
A self-build home or building does not mean that the property owner actually carries out the build themselves, in fact, less than 10% of self-builds in the UK are constructed with any physical input from the owner. Constructing a self-build means that you are overseeing and deciding on the end result, not putting in all the labour to get it there.
How much does it cost to complete a self-build?
How much it will cost to complete a self-build project will vary based on many factors. Location, size, number of storeys, layout, planning and how much you can do yourself will all play an impact on the overall costs of the project.
The benefits of self-build properties:
- You can usually build a larger property that what you would be able to buy for the same money.
- A finished property will usually be valued around 30% more than the cost to construct it.
- Your home will be finished exactly how you want it to be.
Having full control over your build lets you make design decisions with your property that would never have been possible by purchasing an already finished home.
The NORclad team have helped homeowners create incredible and unique finishes to their homes with their timber cladding solutions. The joy of having full control with the build means that you are able to integrate unique aspects like timber cladding and other decorative features.
How to project manage a self-build home
Plan ahead
The first step in the process of managing a self-build project is to research exactly what you want to achieve. Look at other projects that people have completed and gather ideas so that you are not going in blind.
Use existing case studies to come up with ideas, along with other websites such as Pinterest and Google Images.
Set a budget
Setting a budget and being realistic is vital to the success of any project. Make sure that you take into account any issues that could arise. It is a good rule of thumb to factor in around 15% of your budget to go towards these unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that you need to make compromises elsewhere but will protect your project in the long run and ensure that you are able to see it through.
Find the right people
Working with the wrong people can delay or even stop a self-build project from even getting off the ground. When looking for builders and trade workers take your time to make sure that you are working with the right people. There is little point in cutting corners based on money if it means settling for a builder that you cannot trust to complete the work. Working with trusted suppliers is just as important. Picking a supplier that is not able to fulfil your requirement for the project will slow down the process and drive up the overall cost of the work.
It is always best to get references and to double-check them. When looking for suppliers make sure that you work with long standing reputable companies.
Make sure that you are on the right side of the law
The ultimate horror story for self-build property developers is being made to pull your building down because you didn’t get the right planning permission or even built the project in the wrong place. There is no reason to cut corners so make sure that all the paperwork is in order before you begin.
If you are building a property near other houses, make sure that you show courtesy to your neighbours. Remember that your project will cause disruption to them so make sure that they are aware of what you are doing, how long you aim for it to go on for and the hours that work will be taking place. Simply letting them know can dramatically reduce the chances of any complaints coming up.
Keep the environment friendly
Doing a self-build project and be stressful but it is important to maintain a nice environment. Remember that the tradespeople on your site are human and that they will work best in an environment that they enjoy. Listen to them, they may bring something to the table that you hadn’t thought of before. Be open to compromise and to work together to find solutions for your project.
Plan for every eventuality – but be ready to be surprised
Something will come up that you didn’t plan for. Don’t worry, this is what building your own property is about and working through the problems in your journey will only add to the experience.
Most importantly, when taking on a self-build project make sure that you call in the professionals. It is not worth cutting corners or taking risks with a self-build project. There is a reason that professional electricians, plumbers and builders need years of experience to perfect their trade. Cutting corners on a project will not only cost you more money to fix in the future, but it also runs the risk of endangering lives.
If you are looking for a trusted Timber Cladding supplier for your self-build project give NORclad a call today. NORclad’s team are here to help you find the best solution for your builds and offer the best quality products around.
