These misconceptions are enough to prevent many from even considering this as an option, so let’s debunk some of the most common ones, and provide a clearer and more accurate picture of what a bespoke new build home really entails.
Have you ever lain awake at night dreaming about your own bespoke home building project? Many people have, especially with the popularity of shows such as Grand Designs showcasing people’s adventures of launching into the world of self-build. It can be so frustrating to live with someone else’s ideas of what makes a good home, or where aspects of your living space are just not quite the way you’d like them. However, there are many myths about how difficult building your own bespoke home is and the pitfalls it creates.
These misconceptions are enough to prevent many from even considering this as an option, so let’s debunk some of the most common ones, and provide a clearer and more accurate picture of what a bespoke new build home really entails.
1. It’s Too Difficult to Build Yourself
The biggest myth of all is that it’s too difficult to build a bespoke home yourself. If you choose to manage the entire project yourself it is harder, although not impossible, but a bespoke self-build home doesn’t mean taking on every task, finding materials and tradespeople. You can get involved with the design and commissioning phase, to ensure your home will be the haven you’re dreaming of, but you can select companies to manage each phase for you, or even select a bespoke home building constructor, like Cranatt Construction, who will manage the entire process for you – whilst keeping you fully in the loop throughout the entire process.
2. There Aren’t Any Land Plots Available
Finding the right plot for a bespoke self-build home can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Even in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), such as the Cotswolds, there are desirable locations that can be developed or even renovated. Working with land specialists and checking local planning portals can yield information about sites with redevelopment potential, helping you to find the perfect location for your bespoke new build home.
3. It’s Too Expensive
Another huge misconception is that a bespoke self-build home is going to be vastly more expensive than buying an existing property. It can actually be much more cost-effective in the long run as you can select energy-efficient solutions and materials bringing long-term savings. Buying an existing property can create high renovation costs and may need unexpected repairs sooner than a new home, and there is no need to compromise on features. With good project management, you can have full control over the budget, making informed decisions about materials, finishes and design elements.
4. I Won’t Get Planning Permission
Many people are put off the idea of a bespoke home building project by the thought of having to apply for planning permission. Even in an AONB, it is possible to get planning permission for a bespoke build as long as the rules for the plot are satisfied as the UK planning system makes provision for self-building. As long as the designs are thoughtful, sustainable and meet the local requirements, they are usually approved as they enhance the local area.
Cranatt Construction works closely with local architectural firms and the extensive experience of navigating planning applications and meeting local regulations maximises your chance of a successful planning application. Read more about planning applications for bespoke home builds in our blog post.
5. I Won’t Get a Mortgage
There are several myths surrounding getting finances for a self-build home. The first is that it’s nearly impossible to get a mortgage in the first place. This was a bigger challenge in years gone by, but now there are many mortgage products available to those wishing to build a bespoke home, even making it easier for first time buyers to self-build.
Self-build mortgages differ slightly from traditional ones, where the entire sum is released in one lump, as the money is released in chunks to allow for the land purchase and then different stages of the construction process itself. Another myth surrounding getting a mortgage for a self-build is that the interest is higher, but this is also incorrect as there are many competitively priced self-build mortgages available. Exact figures and information should be obtained from a lender before embarking on the project to ensure you can meet the payments.
6. It Takes Too Long to Build a Bespoke Home
The amount of time a bespoke home building project takes will depend on what you’re planning to build, its size, scope and the complexity of the design you’re looking for. However, with a thorough planning process and expert project management, a bespoke home can be completed very efficiently.
At Cranatt Construction, we streamline the project with clear timelines, our own craftsmen and tradespeople and quality materials to manage the entire project to meet the predicted lead times. Each project has a dedicated manager to handle the logistics and keep the project on track in terms of time and budget.
7. It’s Easier to Buy an Existing Home
Whilst buying an existing home seems to be a simpler and easier exercise than building a bespoke home from the ground up, the reality is that finding the perfect existing home can be a much bigger challenge. Buying an existing home frequently means making compromises in terms of layout, design features, location and more and you could find yourself needing to improve inefficient systems, change layouts or make costly renovations.
A bespoke new build home eliminates these issues and provides a tailor-made solution from the start – meeting your needs, incorporating sustainable solutions and smart technologies and offering the perfect, tailor-made solution from the start.
Choose Cranatt Construction for the Perfect Bespoke Home Build
As described here, many of the myths surrounding a bespoke home build are actually inaccurate assumptions. Building your own home, even as a first-time buyer, doesn’t have to be difficult, expensive or time-consuming. Working with expert constructors, such as Cranatt Construction, will enable you to create a stunning home that reflects your vision, suits your lifestyle and meets standards for energy efficiency and sustainable living.
See many of the completed projects we have worked on for our previous clients, evidencing our expert bespoke self-build home projects. With our expert guidance, planning, design support and high-quality craftsmanship, you can embark on your bespoke home-building journey with confidence, so contact us today to get underway.