Why Self Build?

Most selfbuilders are motivated initially by the idea that building their own home will save them money. And you can’t argue with that. For a start, you will be building at ‘cost’ rather than contributing to the profit margin of a developer-built house.

More importantly, a self build is zero-rated for VAT, saving you a very significant 20 per cent on materials and labour. This alone is often the motivation for people to embark on the new build route rather than a renovation.

But while the financial side is an important consideration, it is worth noting that many selfbuilders end up ploughing those savings into their build, upgrading the basic fabric of their home with better quality bricks, tiles, doors and windows, or splashing out on those finishing touches, like appliances, floor coverings and kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furnishings.

But undoubtedly the best reason a self build is the realisation of your dream home. Your dream, not someone else’s idea of a dream home. By starting with a blank canvas you can include all the things you love about other houses, and dismiss all of the negative aspects.

You can also build to a green agenda, saving you money in long-term running costs, as well as doing your bit to help to save the planet.

All things considered, self build really does make a lot of sense.