It makes sense for you to answer a few fundamental questions before you start your search for the perfect plot.
Many people assume that the broader the area the more luck they'll have finding a plot. This couldn't be further from the truth. Whilst it is recommend to have a few areas in mind, it is in fact best to hone in on specific towns or villages and start your search from here. Having a radius too wide may mean you miss plots and can't see the wood for the trees.
Spend time looking in and around towns or villages you'd like to build in. Identify infill plots, where a piece of land sits unused between two existing houses. Don't discount houses built on corner plots, these may have a large plot with potential for development and the owner may be looking to sell off a part of their garden.
Have you considered buying a plot which already has a house or bungalow on?
Demolition costs vary but £5,000-£15,000 would be typical. Almost half of self-builders today choose the replacement dwelling route. Not only does this open up a lot more opportunities for plots but also you are highly likely to gain planning consent if a dwelling is already present on the site. Typically you can rebuild something 30% bigger in size, often larger!
Take a look at the various 'before and after' projects Potton have worked on.
Watch & Learn: Self Build expert and author David Snell, shares his top tips for finding land.
Place an advert in a newspaper or village magazine. Try putting a small notice up in local shops or pubs. Local people know the area and people talk. If someone has a large garden or plot for sale you may well be the first person they call.
Sites with overgrown gardens or even run-down properties could be potential self-build sites. Councils have to bring a derelict site back into use or offer it for sale. If a site has sat dormant for a while and is council owned then this could offer an opportunity!
Did you know that you have a right to build? The Self & Custom Build Act of 2015 forces councils to hold and maintain a register of people looking for a self-build plot. Find out more and register with your local council at the Self Build Portal website.
We are always bringing new sites to market which have planning permission for Potton homes. These sites are all over the UK. Simply register your interest here and you will be the first to know when new sites are added.
If you're thinking about self-building then a visit to our self build show centre in St Neots, Cambridgeshire is a must. Open Tues-Fri 9-5 and Saturday 10-4.
Potton Head Office
Eltisley Road
Great Gransden
Sandy
SG19 3AR
441767 676400