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From The Times

June 8, 2007

Weblinks: self build

Lucia Adams

House-hunting is not amounting to much? Then you may be tempted to join the growing numbers of people who decide to build their own home. But before laying a single brick, ensure that your foundations are solid by doing plenty of research.

www.ebuild.co.uk is the mega directory with contact details for suppliers of everything from architectural antiques to wrought iron. There is also a useful step-by-step guide to building a home – how to find a plot, planning permission, getting warranties, and design tips.

If you have grand plans, but you are without a plot, go hunting on one of the many land websites: www.building-plot.org.uk , www.plotfinder.net , www.plotbrowser.com www.pickupaproperty.com

When it comes to building your own home, getting those finances in order sorts the dreamers from the doers. Try an online calculator for a cost estimate (please take the results with a large pinch of salt): www.buildstore.co.uk. Or, for a much more comprehensive guide to estimating costs: www.homebuilding.co.uk . Also, compare selfbuild mortgages at www.moneysupermarket.com or www.selfbuild-mortgages.co.uk

Still at the planning stage and already feeling swamped? Then turn to self-builders’ forum www.selfbuild.com and find solace with other home makers out there. Members can post questions and tips on land, planning and finances. Check out also this blog by a novice self builder: www.newbuild.co.uk/blog/

The Bricks and Mortar team will be at selfbuilder’s paradise, Grand Designs Live, on Sunday for the great house price debate at 10.30am – we’ll be recording what pundits think of the market’s future, and will broadcast it at midday on Thursday – go to www.timesonline.co.uk/property .

Got a great website? E-mail lucia.adams@timesonline.co.uk