Do you Know these Clever Ways to Save Money on your Self-Build?

Designing and building your own home is one of the biggest tasks, and investments you’ll ever make, so decisions concerning your budget can be difficult.

Of course we don’t mean you should be cutting corners, or sacrificing the quality of your new home. However, we do have some tips for how you can save money on your self-build.

Hiring your Architect

One of the most important professional relationships you’ll have is with your architect. So a huge mistake to make is rushing into things.

Choosing the right architect is a make or break decision for your project – this can’t be stressed enough. In taking the extra time to get to know the potential of each architect, you may save a lot of time, hassle and the cost of changing architects a few weeks down the line.

Interior Design

Although hiring an interior designer may seem like a big expense, it could actually save money. Interior designers often have plenty of contacts, with a wealth of experience and expertise, so can get materials and furniture etc. at a reduced price.

A good interior designer is creative, so can work with any budget. Similarly to the architect, this comes down to hiring someone who perfectly understands your ideas and can translate these to create your ideal living space, without going out of your price range.

Take a look at our Top Picks; 5 of the Best Interior Designers in the South West

Construction Team

Hiring the right builder is just as important as the architect – although we may be a little biased! They are the team who will be putting the plans into action so it’s important to hire someone you can trust. This is the main reason why we get so many clients who have heard about us through word of mouth. So ask anyone you know such as friends or colleagues who might be able to recommend a trust worthy builder.

Communication

Bad communication with the people you’ve hired is one sure way to throw money away. Unless you can communicate effectively with your entire team, mistakes will be made which will make the cost of the self build rise considerably when these have to be corrected. This is one of the main things to take notice of when you’re hiring an architect, designer and builder – Is there a clear channel of communication and are they listening to you and taking note of your vision?

Materials

Your architect or builder may be able to source materials for you, however a good way to reduce the cost is to get involved and see if you can find more affordable materials elsewhere. It’s often good to check second hand websites and stores. Or, if you have the time to spare, you could even scour reclamation yards for materials and unique antiques.

Have a read through our Top Picks; 4 of our Favourite Reclamation Yards