Find a plot - Revision history

Designing Buildings at 08:13, 4 January 2022

2022-01-04T08:13:49Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:13, 4 January 2022
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	Be aware that there are a number of scams that attempt to exploit people looking for self-build plots. Always keep in mind the phrase ‘buyer beware’. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.		Be aware that there are a number of scams that attempt to exploit people looking for self-build plots. Always keep in mind the phrase ‘buyer beware’. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

−	= Related articles on Designing Buildings ~~Wiki~~ =	+	= Related articles on Designing Buildings =

	* Building an extension.		* Building an extension.
Line 58:		Line 58:
	* Open source architectural plans for modular buildings.		* Open source architectural plans for modular buildings.
	* Planning permission.		* Planning permission.
		+	* Plot.
	* Right to build.		* Right to build.
	* Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Bill 2014-15.		* Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Bill 2014-15.
Line 68:		Line 69:
	* Types of building.		* Types of building.
	* VAT refunds on self-build homes.		* VAT refunds on self-build homes.
−	* Walters Way and Segal Close.

	[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]		[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]

Designing Buildings at 06:55, 20 February 2021

2021-02-20T06:55:38Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:55, 20 February 2021
Line 70:		Line 70:
	* Walters Way and Segal Close.		* Walters Way and Segal Close.

−	[[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]	+	[[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]

Designing Buildings at 10:58, 11 November 2019

2019-11-11T10:58:57Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:58, 11 November 2019
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	= Introduction =		= Introduction =

−	With land for building in increasingly short supply, one of the biggest obstacles for self-builders is finding a site in the right area and at the right price. Although some self-builders may be willing to be flexible when it comes to location, they will often be up against other self-builders, small builders and full-time land finders which may make the search more ~~arduous~~.	+	With land for building in increasingly short supply, one of the biggest obstacles for self-builders is finding a site in the right area and at the right price. Although some self-builders may be willing to be flexible when it comes to location, they will often be up against other self-builders, small builders and full-time land finders which may make the search more problematic.

	The following is a list of points to bear in mind when searching for a plot for that dream home:		The following is a list of points to bear in mind when searching for a plot for that dream home:

−	=== Research the area, even if it is close by ===	+	= Research the area, even if it is close by =

	Gathering as much information as possible about a small chosen area that is deemed desirable is advisable. Analysing aerial photography and large-scale maps might reveal potential infill plots, such as large back gardens, waste ground or brownfield sites.		Gathering as much information as possible about a small chosen area that is deemed desirable is advisable. Analysing aerial photography and large-scale maps might reveal potential infill plots, such as large back gardens, waste ground or brownfield sites.

−	However, as with searches undertaken by solicitors, there are sometimes nasty surprises ready to hit the unwary. For example, discovering that a location ~~is riddled with~~ former mine workings ~~should deter even the boldest of self-builders~~.	+	However, as with searches undertaken by solicitors, there are sometimes nasty surprises ready to hit the unwary. For example, discovering that a location has former mine workings.

−	=== Understand what is available ===	+	= Understand what is available =

−	Understanding the different types of plot available is important. Many plots come with planning permission. But there are also plots available that are not advertised and cannot be seen from the road. A plot may be eked out of the garden of an existing property~~, particularly if the garden belongs to a friend or relative who may be willing to do a deal~~. It therefore pays to be inquisitive and to make enquiries.	+	Understanding the different types of plot available is important. Many plots come with planning permission. But there are also plots available that are not advertised and cannot be seen from the road. A plot may be eked out of the garden of an existing property. It therefore pays to be inquisitive and to make enquiries.

	Apps such as Streetview or Google maps can help locate hard-to-see plots, especially small plots of land between other properties, and others which may not be immediately apparent.		Apps such as Streetview or Google maps can help locate hard-to-see plots, especially small plots of land between other properties, and others which may not be immediately apparent.

	It is important to keep an open mind: a plot that has a dilapidated property should not be rejected out of hand. It may be possible to demolish the existing building and rebuild from scratch. If the plot is large enough, it might be possible to build two houses on the same plot. The second house could be built at some future time when finances recover.		It is important to keep an open mind: a plot that has a dilapidated property should not be rejected out of hand. It may be possible to demolish the existing building and rebuild from scratch. If the plot is large enough, it might be possible to build two houses on the same plot. The second house could be built at some future time when finances recover.
−
−	~~=== Contact the locals ===~~

	Talk or write to people in the local community, such as shopkeepers and homeowners, who might have land available that might bring them an unexpected source of revenue.		Talk or write to people in the local community, such as shopkeepers and homeowners, who might have land available that might bring them an unexpected source of revenue.

−	=== Register with a land listing service ===	+	= Register with a land listing service =

−	Websites such as plotfinder.net list sites on a UK national basis. They can be a good starting point for a search~~. In September 2019, plots were available (with planning permission) starting at £113,000. Plots without planning permission may be slightly cheaper~~.	+	Websites such as plotfinder.net list sites on a UK national basis. They can be a good starting point for a search.

−	~~=== Estate~~ agents ~~and~~ land agents ~~===~~	+	Local estate agents may also have some knowledge about land that is available in the area – although some may not be interested in selling land due to the lower commission they receive compared to houses. If possible, estate agents who operate property auctions should be sought out. Subscribing to their catalogue list, usually sent out freely around a month or so before the auction date, is also a good move. It is worth getting to know estate agents, flagging your intentions and contacting them regularly.

−	Local estate agents may also have some knowledge about land that is available in the area – although some may not be interested in selling land due to the lower commission they will receive compared to houses. If possible, estate agents who operate property auctions should be sought out for inclusion of plots amid their auction lots. Subscribing to their catalogue list, usually sent out freely around a month or so before the auction date, is also a good move. It is worth getting to know estate agents, flagging your intentions and contacting them regularly.	+	= Other techniques =
−		+
−	~~=== Advertise =~~==	+

	A small ad in the local paper could yield one or two sites worth exploring.		A small ad in the local paper could yield one or two sites worth exploring.

−	~~=== Join a self-build forum ===~~	+	Getting ideas and advice from others who may have already found a plot – and even started to build – is an invaluable learning experience. Consider joining a self-build forum.
−		+
−	Getting ideas and advice from others who may have already found a plot – and even started to build – is an invaluable learning experience.	+
−		+
−	~~=== Be familiar with the local planning department ===~~	+

	Understand how the local planners operate and the sort of properties they have approved for planning. This will give an idea of the styles, materials and scale that they favour. Just because a plot is bought with planning permission does not mean the buyer cannot reapply with a new application featuring a design that caters more to their needs.		Understand how the local planners operate and the sort of properties they have approved for planning. This will give an idea of the styles, materials and scale that they favour. Just because a plot is bought with planning permission does not mean the buyer cannot reapply with a new application featuring a design that caters more to their needs.
−
−	In addition, looking out for plots that have only recently been granted planning permission may pay dividends as it will allow an early offer to be made to the vendor, possibly beating the rest of the field.
−
−	~~=== Compromise ===~~
−
−	Compromise is king when seeking a plot. Rather than stick to pre-conceived ideas of how their ideal plot should be, self-builders would do well to compromise and make a list of the attributes that are really essential to them. Otherwise they may be looking for a very long time.
−
−	The location does not have to be in the Cotswolds, South Wales or by the sea – areas which are often highly sought after and therefore very expensive. Considering less popular areas could bring a few unexpected surprises.

	It is also important not to have unrealistic expectations in terms of style: plans for a brutalist house are unlikely to be approved in, or on the outskirts of, a rural English village. On the other hand, respecting the local vernacular in terms of style, scale and materials is likely to be viewed more sympathetically.		It is also important not to have unrealistic expectations in terms of style: plans for a brutalist house are unlikely to be approved in, or on the outskirts of, a rural English village. On the other hand, respecting the local vernacular in terms of style, scale and materials is likely to be viewed more sympathetically.

−	~~=== Be pragmatic ===~~	+	In addition, looking out for plots that have only recently been granted planning permission may pay dividends as it will allow an early offer to be made to the vendor, possibly beating the rest of the field.
−		+
−	~~A site in a remote location~~ may ~~seem idyllic on a warm summers’ day. But~~ it ~~may feel eerie at night and~~, ~~if far from a hospital, police or fire station, may take~~ the ~~emergency services a long time to arrive, which could prove fatal. Also, during periods~~ of ~~torrential rain or heavy snowfall,~~ the ~~site may be completely cut-off.~~	+
−		+
−	Scenarios such as these may only come to light after having lived on the chosen site – by which time an expensive mistake may have been made. It is therefore crucial to run through and evaluate as many scenarios as possible before opting for an isolated location.	+

−	~~=== Be aware ===~~	+	Compromise is key when seeking a plot. Rather than sticking to pre-conceived ideas of how the ideal plot should be, self-builders should make a list of the attributes that are really essential to them. Considering less popular areas could bring a few unexpected surprises.

	Be aware that there are a number of scams that attempt to exploit people looking for self-build plots. Always keep in mind the phrase ‘buyer beware’. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.		Be aware that there are a number of scams that attempt to exploit people looking for self-build plots. Always keep in mind the phrase ‘buyer beware’. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

Editor at 18:09, 6 September 2019

2019-09-06T18:09:26Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:09, 6 September 2019
Line 89:		Line 89:
	* VAT refunds on self-build homes.		* VAT refunds on self-build homes.
	* Walters Way and Segal Close.		* Walters Way and Segal Close.
−
−	~~= =~~

	[[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]		[[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]

Editor at 18:09, 6 September 2019

2019-09-06T18:09:00Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:09, 6 September 2019
Line 90:		Line 90:
	* Walters Way and Segal Close.		* Walters Way and Segal Close.

−	= ~~External references~~ =	+	= =
−		+
−	* The Build Hub (a social network for self builders).	+
−	* The Self-Build Portal.	+

	[[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]		[[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]

Editor at 17:01, 6 September 2019

2019-09-06T17:01:05Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:01, 6 September 2019
Line 55:		Line 55:
	=== Be pragmatic ===		=== Be pragmatic ===

−	A site in a remote location may seem idyllic on a warm summers’ day. But it may feel eerie at night and, if far from a hospital, police or fire station, may take the emergency services a long time to ~~get there~~ which could be fatal ~~in an emergency~~. Also, during periods of torrential rain or heavy snowfall, the site may be completely cut-off.	+	A site in a remote location may seem idyllic on a warm summers’ day. But it may feel eerie at night and, if far from a hospital, police or fire station, may take the emergency services a long time to arrive, which could prove fatal. Also, during periods of torrential rain or heavy snowfall, the site may be completely cut-off.

	Scenarios such as these may only come to light after having lived on the chosen site – by which time an expensive mistake may have been made. It is therefore crucial to run through and evaluate as many scenarios as possible before opting for an isolated location.		Scenarios such as these may only come to light after having lived on the chosen site – by which time an expensive mistake may have been made. It is therefore crucial to run through and evaluate as many scenarios as possible before opting for an isolated location.
Line 92:		Line 92:
	= External references =		= External references =

−	* Which? How to build your own home.
	* The Build Hub (a social network for self builders).		* The Build Hub (a social network for self builders).
	* The Self-Build Portal.		* The Self-Build Portal.

	[[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]		[[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]

Editor at 16:57, 6 September 2019

2019-09-06T16:57:45Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:57, 6 September 2019
Line 1:		Line 1:
		+	= Introduction =
		+
	With land for building in increasingly short supply, one of the biggest obstacles for self-builders is finding a site in the right area and at the right price. Although some self-builders may be willing to be flexible when it comes to location, they will often be up against other self-builders, small builders and full-time land finders which may make the search more arduous.		With land for building in increasingly short supply, one of the biggest obstacles for self-builders is finding a site in the right area and at the right price. Although some self-builders may be willing to be flexible when it comes to location, they will often be up against other self-builders, small builders and full-time land finders which may make the search more arduous.

Editor at 16:56, 6 September 2019

2019-09-06T16:56:14Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:56, 6 September 2019
Line 3:		Line 3:
	The following is a list of points to bear in mind when searching for a plot for that dream home:		The following is a list of points to bear in mind when searching for a plot for that dream home:

−	Research the area, even if it is close by	+	=== Research the area, even if it is close by ===

	Gathering as much information as possible about a small chosen area that is deemed desirable is advisable. Analysing aerial photography and large-scale maps might reveal potential infill plots, such as large back gardens, waste ground or brownfield sites.		Gathering as much information as possible about a small chosen area that is deemed desirable is advisable. Analysing aerial photography and large-scale maps might reveal potential infill plots, such as large back gardens, waste ground or brownfield sites.
Line 9:		Line 9:
	However, as with searches undertaken by solicitors, there are sometimes nasty surprises ready to hit the unwary. For example, discovering that a location is riddled with former mine workings should deter even the boldest of self-builders.		However, as with searches undertaken by solicitors, there are sometimes nasty surprises ready to hit the unwary. For example, discovering that a location is riddled with former mine workings should deter even the boldest of self-builders.

−	Understand what is available	+	=== Understand what is available ===

	Understanding the different types of plot available is important. Many plots come with planning permission. But there are also plots available that are not advertised and cannot be seen from the road. A plot may be eked out of the garden of an existing property, particularly if the garden belongs to a friend or relative who may be willing to do a deal. It therefore pays to be inquisitive and to make enquiries.		Understanding the different types of plot available is important. Many plots come with planning permission. But there are also plots available that are not advertised and cannot be seen from the road. A plot may be eked out of the garden of an existing property, particularly if the garden belongs to a friend or relative who may be willing to do a deal. It therefore pays to be inquisitive and to make enquiries.
Line 17:		Line 17:
	It is important to keep an open mind: a plot that has a dilapidated property should not be rejected out of hand. It may be possible to demolish the existing building and rebuild from scratch. If the plot is large enough, it might be possible to build two houses on the same plot. The second house could be built at some future time when finances recover.		It is important to keep an open mind: a plot that has a dilapidated property should not be rejected out of hand. It may be possible to demolish the existing building and rebuild from scratch. If the plot is large enough, it might be possible to build two houses on the same plot. The second house could be built at some future time when finances recover.

−	Contact the locals	+	=== Contact the locals ===

	Talk or write to people in the local community, such as shopkeepers and homeowners, who might have land available that might bring them an unexpected source of revenue.		Talk or write to people in the local community, such as shopkeepers and homeowners, who might have land available that might bring them an unexpected source of revenue.

−	Register with a land listing service	+	=== Register with a land listing service ===

	Websites such as plotfinder.net list sites on a UK national basis. They can be a good starting point for a search. In September 2019, plots were available (with planning permission) starting at £113,000. Plots without planning permission may be slightly cheaper.		Websites such as plotfinder.net list sites on a UK national basis. They can be a good starting point for a search. In September 2019, plots were available (with planning permission) starting at £113,000. Plots without planning permission may be slightly cheaper.

−	Estate agents and land agents	+	=== Estate agents and land agents ===

	Local estate agents may also have some knowledge about land that is available in the area – although some may not be interested in selling land due to the lower commission they will receive compared to houses. If possible, estate agents who operate property auctions should be sought out for inclusion of plots amid their auction lots. Subscribing to their catalogue list, usually sent out freely around a month or so before the auction date, is also a good move. It is worth getting to know estate agents, flagging your intentions and contacting them regularly.		Local estate agents may also have some knowledge about land that is available in the area – although some may not be interested in selling land due to the lower commission they will receive compared to houses. If possible, estate agents who operate property auctions should be sought out for inclusion of plots amid their auction lots. Subscribing to their catalogue list, usually sent out freely around a month or so before the auction date, is also a good move. It is worth getting to know estate agents, flagging your intentions and contacting them regularly.

−	Advertise	+	=== Advertise ===

	A small ad in the local paper could yield one or two sites worth exploring.		A small ad in the local paper could yield one or two sites worth exploring.

−	Join a self-build forum	+	=== Join a self-build forum ===

	Getting ideas and advice from others who may have already found a plot – and even started to build – is an invaluable learning experience.		Getting ideas and advice from others who may have already found a plot – and even started to build – is an invaluable learning experience.

−	Be familiar with the local planning department	+	=== Be familiar with the local planning department ===

	Understand how the local planners operate and the sort of properties they have approved for planning. This will give an idea of the styles, materials and scale that they favour. Just because a plot is bought with planning permission does not mean the buyer cannot reapply with a new application featuring a design that caters more to their needs.		Understand how the local planners operate and the sort of properties they have approved for planning. This will give an idea of the styles, materials and scale that they favour. Just because a plot is bought with planning permission does not mean the buyer cannot reapply with a new application featuring a design that caters more to their needs.
Line 43:		Line 43:
	In addition, looking out for plots that have only recently been granted planning permission may pay dividends as it will allow an early offer to be made to the vendor, possibly beating the rest of the field.		In addition, looking out for plots that have only recently been granted planning permission may pay dividends as it will allow an early offer to be made to the vendor, possibly beating the rest of the field.

−	Compromise	+	=== Compromise ===

	Compromise is king when seeking a plot. Rather than stick to pre-conceived ideas of how their ideal plot should be, self-builders would do well to compromise and make a list of the attributes that are really essential to them. Otherwise they may be looking for a very long time.		Compromise is king when seeking a plot. Rather than stick to pre-conceived ideas of how their ideal plot should be, self-builders would do well to compromise and make a list of the attributes that are really essential to them. Otherwise they may be looking for a very long time.
Line 51:		Line 51:
	It is also important not to have unrealistic expectations in terms of style: plans for a brutalist house are unlikely to be approved in, or on the outskirts of, a rural English village. On the other hand, respecting the local vernacular in terms of style, scale and materials is likely to be viewed more sympathetically.		It is also important not to have unrealistic expectations in terms of style: plans for a brutalist house are unlikely to be approved in, or on the outskirts of, a rural English village. On the other hand, respecting the local vernacular in terms of style, scale and materials is likely to be viewed more sympathetically.

−	Be pragmatic	+	=== Be pragmatic ===

	A site in a remote location may seem idyllic on a warm summers’ day. But it may feel eerie at night and, if far from a hospital, police or fire station, may take the emergency services a long time to get there which could be fatal in an emergency. Also, during periods of torrential rain or heavy snowfall, the site may be completely cut-off.		A site in a remote location may seem idyllic on a warm summers’ day. But it may feel eerie at night and, if far from a hospital, police or fire station, may take the emergency services a long time to get there which could be fatal in an emergency. Also, during periods of torrential rain or heavy snowfall, the site may be completely cut-off.
Line 57:		Line 57:
	Scenarios such as these may only come to light after having lived on the chosen site – by which time an expensive mistake may have been made. It is therefore crucial to run through and evaluate as many scenarios as possible before opting for an isolated location.		Scenarios such as these may only come to light after having lived on the chosen site – by which time an expensive mistake may have been made. It is therefore crucial to run through and evaluate as many scenarios as possible before opting for an isolated location.

−	Be aware	+	=== Be aware ===

	Be aware that there are a number of scams that attempt to exploit people looking for self-build plots. Always keep in mind the phrase ‘buyer beware’. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.		Be aware that there are a number of scams that attempt to exploit people looking for self-build plots. Always keep in mind the phrase ‘buyer beware’. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

Editor: Created page with "With land for building in increasingly short supply, one of the biggest obstacles for self-builders is finding a site in the right area and at the right price. Although some self..."

2019-09-06T16:53:52Z

Created page with "With land for building in increasingly short supply, one of the biggest obstacles for self-builders is finding a site in the right area and at the right price. Although some self..."

New page

With land for building in increasingly short supply, one of the biggest obstacles for self-builders is finding a site in the right area and at the right price. Although some self-builders may be willing to be flexible when it comes to location, they will often be up against other self-builders, small builders and full-time land finders which may make the search more arduous.

The following is a list of points to bear in mind when searching for a plot for that dream home:

Research the area, even if it is close by

Gathering as much information as possible about a small chosen area that is deemed desirable is advisable. Analysing aerial photography and large-scale maps might reveal potential infill plots, such as large back gardens, waste ground or brownfield sites.

However, as with searches undertaken by solicitors, there are sometimes nasty surprises ready to hit the unwary. For example, discovering that a location is riddled with former mine workings should deter even the boldest of self-builders.

Understand what is available

Understanding the different types of plot available is important. Many plots come with planning permission. But there are also plots available that are not advertised and cannot be seen from the road. A plot may be eked out of the garden of an existing property, particularly if the garden belongs to a friend or relative who may be willing to do a deal. It therefore pays to be inquisitive and to make enquiries.

Apps such as Streetview or Google maps can help locate hard-to-see plots, especially small plots of land between other properties, and others which may not be immediately apparent.

It is important to keep an open mind: a plot that has a dilapidated property should not be rejected out of hand. It may be possible to demolish the existing building and rebuild from scratch. If the plot is large enough, it might be possible to build two houses on the same plot. The second house could be built at some future time when finances recover.

Contact the locals

Talk or write to people in the local community, such as shopkeepers and homeowners, who might have land available that might bring them an unexpected source of revenue.

Register with a land listing service

Websites such as plotfinder.net list sites on a UK national basis. They can be a good starting point for a search. In September 2019, plots were available (with planning permission) starting at £113,000. Plots without planning permission may be slightly cheaper.

Estate agents and land agents

Local estate agents may also have some knowledge about land that is available in the area – although some may not be interested in selling land due to the lower commission they will receive compared to houses. If possible, estate agents who operate property auctions should be sought out for inclusion of plots amid their auction lots. Subscribing to their catalogue list, usually sent out freely around a month or so before the auction date, is also a good move. It is worth getting to know estate agents, flagging your intentions and contacting them regularly.

Advertise

A small ad in the local paper could yield one or two sites worth exploring.

Join a self-build forum

Getting ideas and advice from others who may have already found a plot – and even started to build – is an invaluable learning experience.

Be familiar with the local planning department

Understand how the local planners operate and the sort of properties they have approved for planning. This will give an idea of the styles, materials and scale that they favour. Just because a plot is bought with planning permission does not mean the buyer cannot reapply with a new application featuring a design that caters more to their needs.

In addition, looking out for plots that have only recently been granted planning permission may pay dividends as it will allow an early offer to be made to the vendor, possibly beating the rest of the field.

Compromise

Compromise is king when seeking a plot. Rather than stick to pre-conceived ideas of how their ideal plot should be, self-builders would do well to compromise and make a list of the attributes that are really essential to them. Otherwise they may be looking for a very long time.

The location does not have to be in the Cotswolds, South Wales or by the sea – areas which are often highly sought after and therefore very expensive. Considering less popular areas could bring a few unexpected surprises.

It is also important not to have unrealistic expectations in terms of style: plans for a brutalist house are unlikely to be approved in, or on the outskirts of, a rural English village. On the other hand, respecting the local vernacular in terms of style, scale and materials is likely to be viewed more sympathetically.

Be pragmatic

A site in a remote location may seem idyllic on a warm summers’ day. But it may feel eerie at night and, if far from a hospital, police or fire station, may take the emergency services a long time to get there which could be fatal in an emergency. Also, during periods of torrential rain or heavy snowfall, the site may be completely cut-off.

Scenarios such as these may only come to light after having lived on the chosen site – by which time an expensive mistake may have been made. It is therefore crucial to run through and evaluate as many scenarios as possible before opting for an isolated location.

Be aware

Be aware that there are a number of scams that attempt to exploit people looking for self-build plots. Always keep in mind the phrase ‘buyer beware’. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.

= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =

* Building an extension.
* Building regulations.
* CDM for self-builders and domestic clients.
* Community infrastructure levy.
* Community right to build.
* Custom-build homes.
* How to build a garage.
* Kit house.
* Localism Act.
* National Planning Policy Framework.
* Neighbourhood planning.
* Open source architectural plans for modular buildings.
* Planning permission.
* Right to build.
* Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Bill 2014-15.
* Self build and custom housebuilding registers.
* Self-build home project plan.
* Self-build homes negotiating discounts.
* Self-build initiative.
* Serviced plot.
* Statutory permissions.
* Types of building.
* VAT refunds on self-build homes.
* Walters Way and Segal Close.

= External references =

* Which? How to build your own home.
* The Build Hub (a social network for self builders).
* The Self-Build Portal.

[[Category:Construction_management]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Property_development]]