There’s nothing more exciting than creating your own home that’s completely in tune with the way you live. Like most self-builders, you’ll want high-spec and good quality materials to create a forever house where your family can grow and enjoy life. It sounds like a dream because it is one. But to make it a reality, you can’t skim over the budget.
It is incredibly easy to fall into the abyss of bank loans and stretch your budget until you forget what it was to start with. If you want to self-build, and follow your project through to completion, then knowing where your money is going is imperative.
Read on for three tips on how to set a self-build budget that will allow you to see that dream come to fruition.
Work out your budget in the early stages of your project and don’t rush. Take time to make sure you have covered all eventualities and are realistic in your spending. If this step isn’t taken at the beginning, the cost of your self-build could spin rapidly out of control.
Do thorough research and make as many decisions as possible. For example, decide on planning applications, materials, and tradespeople, and approve the design and layout. Make a schedule that is clear and easy to refer to. Link it in with your expenditure so you can keep a clear record of costs. This will also signal when you need to order materials.
Having a clear vision on the page of what you want will help save money further down the line.
Setting a contingency of 10%-20% will help you stay on track with your spending and stop you from going over budget. In many cases, the unforeseen costs come from below ground. It can be impossible to guess at the foundations until the ground has been broken. Preparing complicated foundations can eat into your budget fast, so it is prudent to ensure you are ready for any extra issues with your build.
It may be tempting to try to research and face build issues independently. But using an expert’s advice can really save money in the long run. Being realistic about your own level of knowledge and expertise allows you to take advice from the start that will help things go smoothly. An experienced professional will keep things on track, avoid any mistakes, and can negotiate the best deals.
At CODA Bespoke, we have over 40 years of experience in creating homes with that special something. Our team of RIBA-accredited architects can help you with every step of your self-build journey, including the all-important budget
As well as advising on affordability and other practicalities, we can help you get the most out of your budget with professional design, procurement and delivery services.
Take a look at our self-build and renovations portfolio to get a feel for the homes that we create. Or contact us today to take the first step towards your dream self-build home.
When starting a building project, it is tempting to take on the bulk of the job yourself – especially if you have building or renovation experience. Hiring an architect for the entire project can sometimes be dismissed in favour of keeping costs down.
But the many benefits of having an expert alongside you can’t be overlooked. Not least – less stress and a smoother working environment. Read on for six advantages of hiring an architect from start to finish.
An architects’ extensive knowledge of the building and design process will make your project much smoother. You will have their guidance right from the conception of your vision, so decisions can be made confidently. Their knowledge on building regulations and planning permission will be invaluable to avoid delays in getting your project started.
Having an experienced architect designing plans for you is a massive plus. They can use their skills to select the right layout based on your lifestyle. Or utilise the most scenic views and features with the correct house orientation. With an architect’s designs, you will be assured of a space that will be completely in tune with your life.
A major benefit in hiring an architect throughout your project is that they can recommend quality contractors. They are able to review proposals for you and make sure everything has been included. They may also be able to match you with a contractor they feel you will get on well with. This can help avoid any clashes of personality further down the line.
Being involved with your project from the beginning means your architect has a full understanding of every element. They can advise on the right materials based on your design, budget, and functionality of the space.
You can keep a friendly, cooperative relationship with your contractor by allowing your architect to deal with any tough aspects of negotiations. If you are starting your build with little experience, it is good to have an expert to represent your interests.
Using an architect not only gives you a unique and thoughtful design, but also the benefit of low running costs. Architects can advise on solar techniques and other energy saving features to ensure your home is considerate to the environment. With the right expertise on your side, you will have a good chance of lowering your bills.
As you can see, architects can add value at every step of the house building process. As RIBA-accredited professionals, the team at CODA Bespoke can give you the support you need to take your vision from concept to completion.
If you’re thinking of starting your journey to build your own home and would like to talk it through with an expert, contact our friendly team today.
