Self-build property only for "limited percentage of the market"

Published 05th Jun 2008

Sellers considering dropping out of the housing market and building their own home have been warned that self-build homes are "only a solution for a limited percentage of the market".

The Home Builders Federation (HFB) has said that most homeowners would have to hire tradesmen to complete a self-build property and that could prove costly.

A spokesman for the HFB said: “Most people will need to hire in the skills of a project manager, as well as a range of tradesmen from electricians to plumbers to plasterers et cetera. No matter how practical the person there is insurance implications of carrying out all aspects of the work."

Building a home would also require designing, excavating and constructing foundations which would "add costs".

Additionally, self-builders would need to get planning permission and purchase land for the property which, according to HFB, could cost around £75,000 per unit outside London.

Argos recently launched a DIY flat-pack home for the cost-conscious self-builder, for just under £11,000. The property is a log cabin with five rooms and loft space for storage.

Source: ' Houseladder Ltd '

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