Webchat with Julian Owen

Imogen wants to know:

"Why have self builds become so popular?"

Julian Owen and Ashley Ramsay said:

Ashley says: Britain is becoming a nation of BIYers (build it yourself-ers!). Self-build is set to become an ever more popular way for people to express their lifestyle and personality in their living space. Standard Life Bank Research shows that nearly two thirds of the people in the housing market would consider self-build.....

James wants to know:

"Why have we become so obsessed with our homes?"

Julian Owen and Ashley Ramsay said:

Ashley says: Britain is an island and so our homes and our communities are extremely important to us. Over the last 10 years we've enjoyed a healthy housing market with many people benefiting from rising house prices. We're seeing people becoming increasingly confident in using their homes as a financial planning tool - often unlocking equity in their property to finance their dreams, whether that be renovation or for the more adventurous self-build!....

Julian says: this is partly about disposable income which has increased over the past couple of decades. People have always had an eye for design when it comes to contents and interiors of their homes, and even their cars. Partly because of programmes such as Grand Designs, that design awareness and appreciation has now extended to the design of the whole house... Lenders are now prepared to consider more innovative and individual construction; funding has therefore become easier especially when the project is managed by a professional such as an architect.

Annie Redburn wants to know:

"When people are building their own house do they keep their old one until the new one is built or do they have to stay with friends?" 

Julian Owen and Ashley Ramsay said:

Ashley says: This very much depends on your personal circumstances. You should consider whether you can afford to run two mortgages together which could allow you to stay in your old home while the new one is being built. Another option to consider is living on site, although for some this could be disruptive as you are effectively living in a caravan for a protracted period of time. Think about the fact that your project could run for 6 to 12 months (if built by contractors) so if you are staying with friends they'll need to be really good ones!!

Sarah wants to know:

"What are the easiest and cheapest ways to add value to my house"

Julian Owen and Ashley Ramsay said:

Julian says: It depends on the condition and style of the existing property as well as its location. Improving the decorations can be a cost effective way of increasing the sale price. Upgrading the front garden, adding a parking space if there isn't one, or repainting the windows will all add value. Internally, sub-dividing bedrooms to increase the total number can appreciate the value of a large property....

Toby Xavier wants to know:

"I am thinking of buying some land that has an old run down house on it which i am thinking of knocking down and starting again. Would it be easier to work with what is already there?"

Julian Owen and Ashley Ramsay said:

Julian says: If you build a completely new house you do not pay VAT on it. If you renovate an existing property unless it is listed VAT is incurred. Provided the property is sufficiently run down and in a poor structural state it is more cost effective to rebuild. Which route would be the easiest depends on the property itself, if it has any attractive period details these are sometimes difficult and expensive to replicate. It is also more expensive to renovate a building in very poor condition than it would be to build an identical property from new....If you have seen a period property that you like it is very easy to create a similar design to benefit from all the advantages of modern day construction.

James Moon wants to know:

"Is it possible for me to all the paperwork and legal issues myself?"

Julian Owen and Ashley Ramsay said:

Ashley says: As with any complex process it is always better to employ a professional who can deal with both the paperwork and any unforseen issues that may arise. This will save you money in the long run. For details of how to source a variety of professionals (including solicitors) who can help you realise your self-build dream we have a free guide to building your own home on our website www.freestylemortgages.com.

Jenny Goodge wants to know:

"Do I need to use a qualified architect?"

Julian Owen and Ashley Ramsay said:

Julian says: Firstly, an "architect" is someone who has completed a 7 year training course and is registered with the Architects Registration Board - the title is protected by law. You do not necessarily have to use an architect. However architects bring unique design skills and professional management skills to your project. An Architect designed house is said to be worth 10% more than a house not designed by an Architect....

Sharon Isaaks wants to know:

"How would I go about getting a bank loan to fund a new house i want built?"

Julian Owen and Ashley Ramsay said:

Ashley: Probably the most important part of your self-build project is the project funding!!! Do your research - speak to a lender (such as Standard Life Bank) who is experienced in lending on self-build, renovation and unusual construction. You will need your loan to work flexibly as you progress. Make sure your lender will release funds on 4 key stages - purchasing your plot, foundations, wind and water tight and completion.... Freestyle mortgages for example can give you the flexibility to release additional funds in between certain stages - this is dependent though on your individual circumstances and we'd always encourage you to discuss your options with us.

Sammy Plum wants to know:

"Will I save money on electricity if i have solar panels on my roof?"

Julian Owen and Ashley Ramsay said:

Ashley says:.... interestingly, Standard Life Banks research shows an increasing eco-awareness in self-builders. More and more people are looking to manage their household bills effectively and be environmentally friendly. There are many eco-friendly options available to you in choosing the materials and fittings for your new home. Our self-build guide will give you some great reference points.

Helen wants to know:

"What should I look for when hiring a builder? " 

Julian Owen and Ashley Ramsay said:

Ashley says: Look for a trade registered professional builder. Ensure they can demonstrate their work with postive client testimonials. And look for the Trustmark logo which signifies membership of a government approved builder. Good Luck!!!.