Self-Build Zone

H&R Editor Jason Orme and wife, Sarah, have built a traditional-style home with open plan interiors on a tiny budget

Part seven of H&R's 30 minute guide to self-build. Getting hold of the financing to undertake a self-build project is something within the reach of anyone who can afford to buy a home. Getting hold of the money – and making sure you take out adequate insurance – is a critical element of self-build success.

Providing you have a regular income and a good credit history, you should have no difficulty in obtaining a loan to build your own home or to undertake a renovation or conversion project.

Clearly insurance is not exactly the most exciting product you might need to purchase for your self-build or renovation project - but it does have its purposes and for some people who have experienced a serious loss during their project it can be the most important product they ever purchased.

If you have fallen in love with an old property in need of renovation or conversion, or want to improve your current home, where can you borrow the money you need? Michael Holmes explains your options.