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

Posted: 29 May 2008 12:57:53 GMT

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".

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.

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