Easier Access to Self-Build Plots

Helping more people to build their own home is one way of reducing the country's housing shortage. It is a dream that many property owners have, but very few people manage to actually fulfil this. It can be an extremely long and complex process, but with new government support property owners could cut the time it takes to build their own home.

The second part of a government fund to support the self-build industry is now available. This allows community groups and small builders access to short-term loans which they can use to prepare sites for building upon. These sites can then be portioned off and sold individually as 'serviced plots' to potential self-builders. The fund totals £150 million, and the aim of this money is to provide easier access to self-building and speed up the development process.

These 'serviced plots' will be ready for building upon, which should reduce some of the initial work that property owners would normally have to carry out. They will already have access to water and gas supplies, and the land will have been prepared so that they can start building straight away. By using one of these plots, a self-builder could cut the time it takes to build their own property from two years to one.

At present, about 10,000 self-build properties are built each year. As part of the government's housing initiatives, they want to double this figure by 2020. This new phase of the self-build fund should provide support for up to 10,000 of the 'serviced plots'. The government doesn't just want the self-build arena to only be open to an elite few. Their aim is that if someone wants to build their own home with a balcony or wrought iron staircase, they should be given the opportunity.

Finding Your Perfect Plot

A self-build property is the perfect way of building your dream home. You can be involved at every stage of the project, ensuring that all the elements are to your specifications. You can select a kitchen layout and design that meets your requirements or install a beautiful wrought iron staircase as a feature piece.

One of the hardest parts of this process is actually locating the right plot for you. This should be a decision that you consider carefully, as you don't want to end up with your dream property in the wrong location. Before you start looking for a plot, you need to decide what it is you're actually looking for. Consider the local amenities that you need, such as schools or shops, and think about how you'll access the site and transport links.

If you like the idea of purchasing a serviced plot, then one of the best places to start is by speaking to your local planning department. The council might already have specific schemes running or be able to point you in the direction of builders who are currently working on sites.

Once you've found the right plot, the next step is to create a plan and design that will enable you to build your dream home.