Finding and Buying Land for Self-Build Projects

If you’re looking to self-build your dream home, you might be confused about where to start. There are many options available to those looking to build – some with fierce competition and pitfalls to overcome. In this guide, we’ll cover how to find and buy the right land for your self-build project.

How to find land for self-building

There are several places to look when searching for land:

• Plotfinding websites – These websites are tailored to help you find available plots of land, as well as properties suitable for renovation or 'buy to demolish’. They can be highly competitive, however. They’re also important for market research, giving you a broader idea of potential locations and price ranges.
• Estate and land agents – Estate agents are another good point of call for self-builders, so you should always register your interest with them. Some estate agents don’t sell land, so keep your focus on the right agents local to your area of interest.
• Property auctions – As well as estate agents, you should also try property auctions. Buildings suitable for demolition and rebuilding are often sold at auction.
• Visiting the local area – Physically visiting areas of interest to look for suitable plots of land and approach potential sellers is another effective strategy.
• Asset disposal websites – For example, the Government Property Finder features disused buildings that are up for sale, some of which could be used for self-building.

Factors to consider

The most important factor to consider when searching for self-build land is planning permission. A lot of land is unsuitable to build on, and some unscrupulous sellers will attempt to sell land that is highly unlikely to ever receive planning permission.

Generally speaking, you should avoid land without planning permission, or discuss the land carefully with a local planning officer beforehand. You'll also need to consider access to the land by road.

Brownfield vs greenfield

Greenfield sites are pieces of land that haven’t been built on before, including everything from countryside fields to the land between two properties. This type of land is often very difficult to obtain planning permission for.

Your best bet for self-build land is usually a brownfield site, referring to land that has already been developed on. Councils are more likely to approve planning for these sites, and they’re relatively inexpensive. However, there are demolition costs to consider.

Local authorities are required to keep Brownfield Registers, which detail all the brownfield land suitable for residential development in the local area. Whilst some of these plots might appear rough around the edges, many can be transformed into wonderful locations for a new self-build home.

The buying process

The process of purchasing land varies. It could involve bidding on a brownfield site at an auction or approaching the council for a disused plot. Before buying, you should hire a surveyor to check for any issues with the land, including whether it’s suitable to build on or whether there are any environmental issues.

You’ll also usually need to hire a solicitor to assist with the legal process, which will include checking for any covenants or other restrictions. Finally, if the residential land is worth over £125,000, you’ll also need to pay Stamp Duty Land Tax.

Architects for your dream self-build home

Once you’ve bought your land, you can make a start on the design process. At CODA Bespoke, our award-winning Sheffield team specialises in creating show-stopping luxury properties, so your dream self-build home can become a reality.

If you’re ready to take the first step towards a bespoke self-build home, contact our team to discuss your plans. Or take a look at our portfolio to see our previous projects.