The Advantages Of Building Your Own Home
As a Property Search agent, I have been struck by how much self-building houses have gained popularity in recent years as more individuals and families take on the challenge of finding a plot of land and designing and constructing their own home. Reflecting on what are the main drivers behind this trend, some clear benefits to ‘building your own’ can be identified. These range from financial considerations coupled with a frustration with the delays inherent in many residential property transactions to the desire for completely customised and very personal living spaces. How appealing to own and occupy something truly unique!
It is generally accepted that buying an existing property can be expensive, especially in the most sought-after areas. Many find that self-building offers substantial cost savings.
Those who have the time and appetite to take on a project-management role themselves can often manage the budget more effectively, making smart decisions about where to allocate resources and which areas to prioritise for quality. Building material costs have escalated in recent years, but self-builders can secure VAT refunds on materials and services. Sourcing materials directly and taking advantage of construction deals can also achieve further savings.
Self-building provides the opportunity to design a home that aligns with one’s vision and lifestyle, whether that means choosing eco-friendly materials, incorporating innovative design features, or creating a unique layout. The flexibility to customize every detail, from room dimensions to energy-efficient systems, enables a home to be perfectly moulded to the homeowner’s specific aspirations, something that is virtually impossible when buying a home that has already been built and inheriting someone else’s ideas.
Perhaps the principal benefit is simply the sense of achievement and pride that comes with conceiving and implementing, of being involved in every step from the ground up. For some, it is a fulfilling creative endeavour, while for others, it is a way of leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. At Recoco Property Search we look forward to assisting many more buyers to find a plot on which to create their own dream home.
Mike Henderson, FNAEA
+44 (0) 7879 482 836