Building your own home is the dream of many of us. Who wouldn’t want to choose exactly how and where their home should be?
A self-build gives you the chance to build a home with your personality stamped all over it. So we’ve put together some tips to help you make your self-build as unique as you are.
Start With A Vision
To get a self-build project right, you need to have a clear vision in place before you begin.
Decide first what style you want your house to have. If you can get a style, then you can start researching it and deciding on what features, colors and layouts you might like in your home.
Don’t rush this process – you want it to be exactly right!
Get The Right Architect & Builders In Place
This is vitally important.
Once you’ve done your research and know what you’re after, then an initial consultation with potential architects will be a lot easier
It’s important to know what you want in an architect, as you will need to find one that works well with you and understands your vision so you can work as a team.
Choose The Site That Speaks To You
The site is a very critical aspect of a self-build.
This can affect the budget you have for the whole build, so make sure you get this bit right! Research the sites that are available and look up the areas to be sure on the costs and amenities.
This way, you’ll be in a good position to make a bid on your perfect site!
Manage The Project Efficiently
Once it begins you will need to ensure that the project is managed effectively. Delays and overruns can eat into your self-build budget very quickly.
Before deciding to manage the project yourself, ask yourself seriously if you have all the skills you need, as well as the time available to commit to the job.
A great option could be hiring a project manager. It is an extra expense but could save you money in the long run by avoiding costly setbacks.
Keep On Top Of Any Snagging
Snagging is a nightmare! The last thing you want in your self-build are silly mistakes.
When you hire your contractors, make sure that they accept responsibility for snagging for at least one year, possibly longer for certain things.
Make sure that when the build is finished, you check everything and only pay the bill once any immediate snagging has been taken care of. This is common practice and any reputable contractor should have no issue with this.
