Many people who have dreams of the perfect home, decide to embark on their own self-build project. By doing this you can build the home of your dreams from scratch and have complete control over the whole thing from the original designs to the finishing touches such as flooring. But before you even begin to start designing your home, you need to start the hunt for a plot of land that will be the location of your dream home.
When it comes to finding a plot of land it can be a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack. It is very uncommon to find a plot which offers you absolutely everything that you want to be prepared to compromise on some things. It is also worth thinking about the location of the plot and access to facilities – for example if the plot is quite rural you may need to also add a septic tank in which will drain the waste water from the toilet and plugholes. This needs to be emptied periodically by a professional such as this septic tank emptying Bromsgrove based company.
Another option when looking for a plot is not to rule out land which has a building on it. For example, a plot of land with a small dilapidated building on it is perfect as you can demolish the existing structure and build a new one.
It is also a good idea to get to know the local area if you are not already familiar with it. Local groups, such as Facebook groups can be a great way to get to know the local community and find out more about the area you hope to move to, as well as visiting the area and chatting to locals, for example having a drink in the local pub.
From planning permission to the first build day
Finding the plot is only the first stage. Unless the land you buy already has planning permission, you will need to obtain it before any building can start, so it is worth knowing where a plot stands on this before you commit. Keeping an open mind and accepting some compromise on the plot itself often makes the whole project easier.
Once permission is in place, an architect can turn the ideas in your head into plans the builders can follow. Even if you intend to do some of the work yourself, you will probably want to bring in people for the building, plumbing or electrics, and asking around for recommendations is the best place to start.
You may also need to hire plant and equipment. Having everything ready before the builders arrive keeps the project moving and sets you on the way to a home designed exactly around your needs.
Services to check on a rural plot
Rural living has become more popular as more people work from home and commuting matters less, and building your own house lets you design it exactly as you want in the countryside setting you choose. Plots can be found online or by asking around in the area where you hope to live.
Before choosing a plot, find out which services are available. Water and electricity need to be connected before any building work starts, because the build depends on them. In the countryside, also check whether broadband reaches the site and whether there is a mains sewer connection.
Many rural homes have no sewer and rely on a septic tank instead. If that is the case, factor in the need for someone to empty the tank regularly once you have moved in. Checking all of this early saves unwelcome surprises later and helps you judge whether a plot is right for the home you have in mind.
