The Self Build Guide Part 2: Finding Land via Local Businesses

As we always say, planning to self build is a big commitment as well as being a very exciting undertaking. Finding land is obviously a very important step. Online land searches can be a good starting point, but there’s no substitute for a bit of first-hand local knowledge, as you take the first steps towards self-build. To give yourself the best chance of securing the perfect plot, make sure you are covering every channel open to you.

Finding land via planning applications

Don’t forget that anyone who wants to get planning permission to build a property has to submit an application. All these applications are available to see, you just have to contact the local authority’s planning department and ask to see them. Many are now available online, making them even easier to access, along with the applicant’s contact details. Limit your investigations to looking for recent applications for single dwellings, preferably just with outline drawings, as this provides you with more flexibility when it comes to your own design. If the application has not yet been approved the land is probably not even up for sale so if you are quick enough, you can get in touch with the potential vendor to see if they are interested in selling to you before anyone else can.

Reach out to estate agents and planning consultants

If you have a property to sell, you may already have signed up with an estate agent to market it. They may sell land as well, particularly if they are one of the smaller independents. Ask if they are involved with property auctions too. These agents should be one of your first ports of call in your preliminary research. Let them know what you are looking for and then keep dropping in to see if any likely plots have come up so you will be front of mind when something suitable does pop up on their books.

Bonding with local builders and developers

Just like we do at CB Homes, you will find that some developers own plots of land with the intention of selling them as individual self build plots. Our specialist land-finders are constantly on the look-out for prime plots of land that can be developed in desirable locations throughout the region. We actively search for land and know the advantages and disadvantages of what’s on offer, so we are ideally placed to advise a customer who is interested in embarking on a self-build project. 

Even if you get in touch and there is nothing available at that time, open up a dialogue, tell them what you’re looking for and they may well come across something suitable and can get back in touch with you for further discussions. Local builders too are often aware of likely plots of land so by all means get in touch with them too.

Make friends with local architects

Local architects are often involved with self build projects and they may well be helping a vendor with outline planning permission for a particular plot. Drop them a line or give them a call to see if they can help you. Again, it is all about making contact with people who have their ear to the ground when it comes to possible plots.

Visit building exhibitions

By attending one of the trade shows, like Build It Live, you will meet hundreds of professionals who will be able to offer advice on locating land, finding the right builder and share their experience with you. Shows are dotted all round the country so you should be able to find one that is reasonably easy to access.  You might well come across the team from CB Homes too.

Promoting self building

Sign up for your Right to Build by making sure you are on the Right to Build register, which every local council in England is obliged to hold to promote the growth of the UK self build industry. Go to https://nacsba.org.uk/campaigns/right-to-build-portal to find out more.

Choosing the location of your self-build project is a crucial decision and landing the perfect plot is not always easy. Talk to us for planning and construction advice so we can help you find a plot that’s right for you.