Kay and Peter Baldwin

Lincolnshire  2004    04-286

When Peter and Kay Baldwin, from Gainsborough in Lincolnshire, successfully finished their first Potton self build project, they were so delighted with the result that they decided to do it all over again.

The couple, both in their late fifties, wanted to relocate as they approached retirement. It had been 15 years since they build their first house with Potton and they were determined to do it again.

Peter said: “Once you have moved into your own self build I very much doubt you would ‘buy’ a property off the shelf ever again.With your own project, everything is just as you want it because you have planned it that way. The dream comes true.”

Their second build, started in February 2005 and took just five and half months from the digging of the foundations to moving in. It was finding the land that took the time.

Peter used the same strategy he employed first time to find the plot; looking in the classifieds of self build magazines for details ofestate agents and then sitting on the phone and calling them all.

“I had a very long list of names for agents here in Lincolnshire and then quite by chance I spoke to one lady who told me about a plot on her books,” he said. “She sent me the details and we knew instantly that it was the one.

When it came to selecting a house design, the’ knew exactly what they wanted and choose a modified 3024 sq ft Waresley from Potton’s Heritage range. One year later and the house features a traditional stone clad exterior but internally as all the comforts of modern day living.

Peter continued: “We very much like the Heritage range with all the beams and old world charm, it boasts all the charm of an old world house but has all the benefits of a new house! Plus all Potton houses exceed Building Regulations so you know you are building an energy efficient home for the future!”

Set in breathtaking surroundings, the house is enclosed by pastures and woodland.It was the beauty of the location which inspired the Baldwin’s to create a sun room at the back of the house to take advantage of the spectacular views. “The sun room was a fantastic decision,” said Peter. “It extends on from the kitchen and means we can cook and chat to visitors at the same time while still being able to look out over the pastures. Whenever we have friends and family to stay they always gravitate towards the kitchen and sun room.”

Specifically designed with visiting family in mind the house boasts four bedrooms and four bathrooms, ensuring there are never any arguments or queues for the bathroom in the morning.

Throughout the build the couple knew they were fully supported and that help was always at hand should a problem arise. Peter said: “The Potton Show Centre in St Neots, Cambs, is an invaluable aid for ideas and comparisons but the real back-up is with the ‘backroom guys and gals’. We used the Potton Planning Permission and Building Regulations facility (money very well spent) and placed numerous calls to the Potton offices during the build stage for assistance.”

Sean Adams of Potton said: “This house is a fantastic example of what can be achieved .

Self builders have the chance to let their imaginations run wild and can be as extravagant or as conservative as they like depending on their requirements and taste. Building your own home really is an opportunity to fulfill a dream.”

As well as enabling the Baldwin’s to live in their perfect home in their perfect location their project has also turned out to be a lucrative investment. With a total build spend of just £510,000 the Baldwin’s were delighted when their builders told them the house would be worth at least £600,000 as soon as it was finished. A staggering 18% profit in justover five months!

Having been happily ensconced in their self build now for just under a year, the Baldwin’s are just as thrilled with their stunning new home as the day they moved in. Peter said: “The reward comes at the end when you walk into your new home for the first time – wonderful!You know where everything is - all the light switches and plugs - because you put them there!!

Author: Helen Liddle
DateAdded: 15/07/2009 00:00:00