Afleveringen
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What would you sacrifice to build your dream home?
Would you sell your house, move into a caravan, and live on-site while managing your self-build?
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Rachel to hear the honest story behind her self-build journey: from buying a plot with planning permission to living in a caravan during the build, all the way through to completing the home she still loves today.
Rachel shares the highs, the lows, the stress, the unexpected costs, and the moments that made it all worth it.
Her story is a brilliant reminder that self-build isn’t always easy, but with the right mindset, the right team, and the determination to keep going, the rewards can be life-changing.
This episode covers:
• How Rachel got started with self-build
• Buying a plot with planning permission already in place
• Selling her home to fund the build
• Why she moved into a caravan on-site
• Managing the build while working from home
• Budgeting for unexpected costs
• Where extra money gets spent during a self-build
• The reality of being over budget
• Choosing the right builder and trades
• The most stressful stages of the build
• Mistakes Rachel would avoid next time
• The small details that make a big difference
• Why finishing strong matters
• What life feels like after moving inRachel shares one message throughout the episode: Just keep going.
Self-build can be stressful, exhausting and overwhelming at times. But every challenge gets you closer to the home you’ve worked so hard to create.
Now, years after completing the build, Rachel still has moments where she walks into her kitchen, looks out through the sliding doors into the garden, and reminds herself exactly why it was all worth it.
If you’re planning a self-build, currently mid-build, or feeling overwhelmed by the journey, this episode is full of reassurance, perspective, and honest advice from someone who’s been through it all.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
Mayflower Booking
📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
Free Self-Build Resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #DreamHome
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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For many people, self-build is exciting in theory. But in reality, managing planning, utilities, contractors, budgets and timelines can feel overwhelming.
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Adrian and Mike from Greenlee Developments to explore a different route: custom build.
Greenlee specialises in sourcing land, securing planning, and delivering high-quality bespoke homes through a model that gives buyers the flexibility to personalise their home, without the pressure of managing the entire build themselves.
The conversation explores how custom build sits between traditional self-build and buying from a standard housebuilder, why demand for this model is growing, and how Greenlee helps clients create homes that feel truly personal.
This episode covers:
• What custom build actually means
• How it differs from self-build and standard housebuilding
• Why custom build is growing in popularity
• The benefits of a turnkey self-build solution
• How Greenlee helps source land and secure planning
• Why early-stage planning and due diligence matter
• Common challenges in self-build projects
• The importance of utilities, infrastructure and site servicing
• Why early customer involvement improves project outcomes
• How buyers can personalise layouts, finishes and specifications
• The role of expert teams in reducing risk and stress
• Why collaboration creates better homes
Adrian and Mike share a clear message throughout this episode:
Building a bespoke home doesn’t have to mean taking on every challenge yourself.
With the right team around you, it’s possible to create a home tailored to your lifestyle, while avoiding much of the complexity that comes with traditional self-build.
This episode is ideal for anyone exploring self-build, custom build, land opportunities, or alternative ways to create a home that truly works for them.
You can find out more about Greenlee Developments here:
https://www.greenlydevelopments.co.uk/
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking
📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #CustomBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #DreamHome #PropertyDevelopment
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser. -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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What if self-build decisions were easier?
One of the biggest challenges in any self-build project is knowing what decisions to make, when to make them, and how those choices affect everything else down the line.
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Michael from Home by Milestone, an innovative new centre designed to help self-builders, renovators, developers and industry professionals make better decisions earlier in the building journey.
Located in the historic Masson Mills, Home by Milestone is far more than a traditional showroom. It’s an immersive experience where visitors can explore sustainable building products, understand how modern systems work together, and learn what it really takes to create healthier, more energy-efficient homes.
The conversation dives into Passivhaus principles, sustainable construction, and why collaboration between designers, suppliers, builders and finance experts can dramatically improve project outcomes.
This episode covers:
• What Home by Milestone is and why it was created
• Why it’s different from a traditional construction showroom
• Passivhaus explained in simple terms
• Why energy-efficient homes are becoming the future
• The key principles behind better building performance
• Why build quality matters just as much as product choice
• Common self-build mistakes made too late in the process
• Why early-stage decision making is so important
• How poor collaboration creates costly delays and issues
• The importance of aligning design, build and finance early
• How sustainable building can improve comfort and reduce running costs
• Where self-build and construction is heading over the next 5–10 yearsMichael shares a powerful perspective throughout this episode:
The future of construction isn’t just about better products.
It’s about better planning, better collaboration, and better decisions from day one.If you’re planning a self-build, renovation, or major construction project, this episode offers valuable insight into how to future-proof your home and avoid costly mistakes.
You can find out more about Home by Milestone here:
Home by Milestone
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
Mayflower Booking
📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
Free Self-Build Resources
#SelfBuild #Passivhaus #EcoBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SustainableBuilding
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with returning guest Andy, who shares his journey through multiple self-build projects, from a modest first build to much larger and more complex developments worth over £1 million.
Andy talks openly about what he and his wife learned along the way, including the mistakes they made, what they would do differently, and the lessons that only come from going through the process yourself.
The conversation covers everything from funding challenges and development finance to planning issues, legal mistakes, heat pumps, building control, and why having the right team around you can make or break a project.
This episode covers:
• How Andy completed his first self-build for around £120k
• Scaling from a small build to much larger projects
• The reality of managing bigger, more complex builds
• Why resale value matters, even if you plan to stay long term
• Common planning and legal mistakes to avoid
• Lessons learned around building control and regulations
• Heat pump challenges and choosing the right installer
• Self-build mortgages vs development finance
• Why cash flow can make funding much easier
• The importance of working with experienced professionals
• Why your solicitor can have a huge impact on your project
• The biggest lessons Andy has learned after multiple buildsAndy’s biggest takeaway?
You get what you pay for.Whether it’s your broker, solicitor, architect, or build team, having the right people around you can save huge amounts of stress, time, and money.
If you’re planning your own self-build, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical advice from someone who has been through the journey multiple times.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking
📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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When people think about building an energy-efficient home, they usually focus on heat pumps, solar panels and insulation.
But there’s one part of the process that often gets overlooked: ventilation.
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Mandip from Solarcrest to break down why modern airtight homes need properly designed ventilation systems, what MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) actually does, and why “build tight, ventilate right” has become such an important principle in modern self build design.
The conversation explores how ventilation impacts everything from comfort and running costs to condensation, mould, air quality and long-term building performance. Mandip also explains why so many self builders leave ventilation decisions too late, and the expensive consequences that can create later in the build.
This episode covers:
What MVHR actually is in simple termsWhy modern homes need ventilation systemsThe relationship between airtightness and energy efficiencyWhy ventilation should be planned earlyCommon mistakes self builders makeThe hidden costs of retrofitting systems laterWhy not all MVHR systems are equalThe importance of fabric-first designHeat pumps, insulation and whole-home performanceHow to create a healthier, lower-running-cost homeYou can find out more about Solarcrest here: https://solarcrest.co.uk/
PLUS, Solarcrest are one of the expert businesses that contribute to Mayflowers' Self-Build Savers Solution, meaning you get a discount with them, when you work with us.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking
📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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"Self-Build" and "Custom-Build" terms can be used interchangeably. But they are in fact different routes.
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, host Jack speaks to Helen and David about how a normal house search unexpectedly turned into a custom build journey. What started as a plan to buy a finished property in Henley-on-Thames evolved into an opportunity to work directly with a local developer to create a bespoke home tailored around their lifestyle.
The conversation explores the realities of custom build projects, including how much flexibility buyers actually get, how stage payment mortgages work, what decisions they could influence, and the importance of having the right professionals around you throughout the process.
Helen and David also share the lessons they learned around contracts, Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) payments, landscaping costs, snagging, and managing the relationship with a developer while still ensuring the home truly feels like their own.
This episode covers:
The difference between self build and custom buildHow they found their plot through a normal house searchWorking directly with a local developerWhat parts of the design they could and couldn’t changeHow stage payment self build mortgages work in practiceWhy they hired an independent surveyorHidden costs people often overlookManaging budgets, specifications and payment stagesThe importance of clarifying responsibilities earlyWhat they’d do differently next timeIf you like the idea of creating a more personalised home, but don’t want the pressure of managing a full self build project yourself, this episode offers a valuable look into a route that sits somewhere between a traditional house purchase and a full self build.
Brought to you by Mayflower Mortgage & Finance. Helping self-builders navigate the financial side of their projects with confidence.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking
📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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What happens when you finally build your dream home… and realise it still isn’t the life you wanted?
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, our host Jack speaks to Lindsay about the emotional and financial reality of building not one, but two self-build homes in just four years.
From navigating material price spikes during COVID, mortgage challenges with ICF construction, and living on-site in a touring caravan, to eventually creating a modern eco home in the middle of the Welsh countryside, this episode covers it all. Especially why their first build, despite being beautiful, ultimately forced a difficult decision, and how the experience completely changed the way they approached their second project.
We cover:
Why their first self build became financially unsustainableThe mortgage issues they faced building with ICF during COVIDLessons learned from managing two self build projectsWhy getting finance sorted early changes everythingLiving in a caravan while building on-siteHow they created an ultra-efficient eco home with low running costsThe hidden costs self builders often missWhy contingency budgets matter far more than people thinkHonest advice for anyone currently mid-build or planning their first projectThis is a refreshingly honest conversation about the side of self building people don’t always talk about: the stress, compromises, financial pressure, and emotional decisions behind creating a home that genuinely works for your life.
Brought to you by Mayflower Mortgage & Finance. Helping self-builders navigate the financial side of their projects with confidence.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking
📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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Finding self build land is hard enough. Finding land you can actually get planning permission on? Even harder.
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack speaks to Chartered Architect Caroline Martin about the three-year journey her family has been on to secure land for a very personal self-build project. What started as a search for a home that could support their son’s independence has evolved into a complex nine-dwelling planning application involving flood zones, archaeology, nutrient neutrality, overage clauses, and one planning policy that most self builders have never heard of.
Caroline shares how understanding the government’s “Tilted Balance” planning policy opened up opportunities on land that most buyers and developers had overlooked, and why some of the best self build opportunities are often the sites that seem too difficult at first glance.
This episode covers:
What the “Tilted Balance” policy actually meansHow to identify land with hidden planning potentialWhy some rejected or difficult plots can become opportunitiesThe reality of dealing with archaeology, phosphates and flood riskHow Caroline is funding a multi-generational self build projectPractical advice for navigating planning objections and local politicsWhat self builders should look for before buying landIf you’ve struggled to find land, felt overwhelmed by planning, or assumed certain plots were impossible to develop, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how experienced professionals approach the process, and what everyday self builders can learn from it.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking
📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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Building your own home sounds exciting. But what is it actually like once you’re in it?
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Rebekah to talk through the reality of her self-build journey, from the moment the idea started on their farm, to where the project stands today.
They cover:
Why their land sparked the idea to buildThe reality of planning permission (and why it’s often the hardest part)Budget uncertainty, hidden costs, and why no one will give you a straight answerGroundworks, unexpected expenses, and decisions that spiralThe emotional side of building — stress, doubt, and just keeping goingRebekah also shares what she’d do differently, what surprised her most, and her advice for anyone currently in the middle of a build. If you’re thinking about self-building, or already in the thick of it, this episode gives a much more realistic picture of what to expect.
Brought to you by Mayflower Mortgage & Finance. Helping self-builders navigate the financial side of their projects with confidence.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking
📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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In this weeks episode of the Self-Builders podcast, Keir shares his experience of self-building a new house and renovating an existing cottage, highlighting the challenges, successes, and key takeaways from the project.
Takeaways
Self-building requires careful planning and investment in preparatory work.Local expertise and community support can make the self-building process smoother and more rewarding.Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Building06:23 Construction and Materials11:50 Project Completion and Future PlansIf you're looking to do your own large-scale renovation, this episode is packed with real-world experience that can help you avoid some of the same mistakes.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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Most people think self-build means starting from an empty plot.
But sometimes the smartest route is transforming an existing property into something completely new.
In this episode of The Self Builders Podcast, Jack speaks with John, who shares the story of how he transformed a modest 1960s bungalow into a modern, energy-efficient home designed to suit his lifestyle long into the future.
After living in the same house for over 30 years, John and his wife wanted a home that was better suited to their needs, more sustainable to run, and designed with later life in mind. Instead of searching endlessly for the perfect property, they decided to buy a bungalow and completely reconfigure and extend it.
In this episode we discuss:
• why they chose to renovate and extend a bungalow rather than build from scratch
• designing a home that works for both now and later life
• navigating planning permission and permitted development rules
• choosing the right builder for the project
• funding the build through mortgage options and finance planning
• creating an energy-efficient home with heat pumps, solar, and battery storage
• the real running cost benefits of a modern eco-focused renovationJohn also shares what the process was really like, what went smoothly during the build, and the key lessons he would pass on to anyone considering a similar project.
If you're considering a major renovation or thinking about future-proofing your home, this episode offers valuable insight into how thoughtful planning can create a home that works for decades to come.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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Building your own home is one challenge.
Building it largely on your own is another entirely.
In this episode of The Self Builders Podcast, Jack speaks with Adrian, who shares the remarkable story of building his own home from the ground up after years of struggling to get planning permission for his original renovation project.
What began as a plan to renovate an old cottage eventually turned into a full self-build project after expert planning advice revealed a completely different route forward.
Adrian explains how the project evolved, why he chose an ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) build method, and how he has managed to keep costs under control by doing the vast majority of the work himself.
In this episode we discuss:
• how planning rules in the green belt changed the entire project
• why demolishing the old cottage opened the door to a new build
• choosing ICF construction for airtightness and energy efficiency
• managing a self-build project largely on your own
• how organisation and planning keeps the build moving forward
• keeping costs under control with trade accounts and DIY labour
• the realities of building a home yourselfAdrian also shares the mindset that has helped him tackle such a huge project step by step — focusing on small daily progress rather than the full scale of the challenge.
If you're considering a self-build, this episode offers a fascinating insight into what’s possible with determination, planning, and the right approach.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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In this episode of The Self Builders Podcast, Jodie and James share the full story behind their self-build journey: from renovating a 17th-century cottage to splitting their land and building a brand new home next door. Yes - both in one go!
They talk honestly about the highs and the challenges along the way, including planning issues, neighbour objections, managing trades, and the realities of trying to project manage a build while also working full time and raising a young family.
Inside the episode they discuss:
• how they found the property and decided to split the plot
• renovating the original cottage before starting the self-build
• planning objections and dealing with difficult neighbours
• project managing the build themselves
• what went well during the early construction stages
• where things became more difficult during the finishing stages
• the biggest lessons they would apply if they built againDespite the challenges, the project ultimately resulted in a beautiful family home, and plenty of valuable lessons for anyone thinking about taking on a self-build project themselves.
If you're considering building your own home, this episode is packed with real-world experience that can help you avoid some of the same mistakes.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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In this episode of the Self-Builders Podcast, we speak with a homeowner who completed a full self-build project in the UK. From buying the plot to moving into a brand new, self-built five-bedroom house, in just 11 months.
He shares what motivated him to build instead of buying on the open market, how he found the plot, and what the journey looked like from planning permission through to construction and completion.
Self-build projects can feel daunting at first, but this conversation gives a realistic look at what the process involves and where preparation makes the biggest difference.
In this episode we discuss:
🎤 Why some buyers choose self-build instead of buying an existing home
🎤 How this project went from plot purchase to completion in around 11 months
🎤 The process of finding contractors and managing trades
🎤 The planning permission journey and dealing with local authorities
🎤 Why preparation (soil tests, asbestos checks, material supply) is critical
🎤 The benefits of brick-and-block construction for resale and mortgage options
🎤 How material sourcing can dramatically affect build costs
🎤 The challenges of interior finishes and design decisions
🎤 How financing a self-build project works in practice
🎤 Practical lessons and tips for anyone considering building their own home
Self-building isn’t always the easiest route, but as this project shows, with the right preparation and structure it can be an incredibly rewarding way to create a home that fits your life perfectly.
If you’re exploring your own self-build project and want expert guidance on financing, Mayflower Mortgage specialises in helping clients structure their projects from start to finish.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject #SelfBuildMortgage
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser. -
In this episode of the Self Builders podcast, host Mike Pawley speaks with Charles, a client of Mayflower Mortgage, who undertook a self-build project to convert an old barn. Charles shares his journey of finding the perfect property, navigating planning permissions, and the importance of good financing. He discusses the challenges encountered during construction, including unexpected costs and structural issues, while emphasising the need for flexible budgeting. The conversation also highlights the significance of good design, water management, and the emotional highs and lows of self-building. Charles concludes with valuable tips for aspiring self-builders.
We discuss:
Charles’s barn conversion project.Finding the right property took four years.Be mindful of your criteria when searching for a property.Engage a planning consultant early to avoid complications.Expect unexpected costs in renovations.A good structural engineer is invaluable.Water management is crucial in building projects.Flexibility in budgeting is essential.Pay for significant expenses on a credit card for protection.Shop around for the best terms with suppliers.📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources#SelfBuild #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject #SelfBuildMortgage
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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In this episode of the Self Builders podcast, host Mike Paulie speaks with Paul Grice, a self-build mortgage client, about his journey through the self-build process. Paul shares insights on choosing the right property, navigating planning permissions, the importance of hiring a good architect, and finding the right builder.
He discusses the challenges faced during the build, including unexpected costs and delays, and emphasises the value of open book contracts for transparency. The conversation concludes with Paul's top tips for prospective self-builders, highlighting the importance of collaboration and careful planning.
We discuss:
☑️ Choosing the right property is crucial for a successful self-build.
☑️ Planning permissions can be straightforward if you meet local criteria.
☑️ A good architect can make a significant difference in the design process.
☑️ Finding a builder you trust is essential for a smooth project.
☑️ Open book contracts provide transparency and control over costs.
☑️ Self-building can be stressful, especially during the demolition phase.
☑️ Unexpected costs often arise during construction, especially underground work.
☑️ Delays due to weather can impact the timeline significantly.
☑️ It's important to make decisions quickly during the build process.
☑️ Collaboration between the architect and builder is key to achieving your vision.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject #SelfBuildMortgage
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser. -
In this episode of the Self Builders podcast, host Mike Pawley speaks with Helen and Simon, who share their experiences and insights from their self-build journey. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of finding the right plot, navigating planning permissions, managing the construction process, and the importance of being hands-on throughout the project. The conversation also highlights key tips for future self-builders, emphasising the need for meticulous planning and decision-making.
We discuss:
The project was born out of lockdown and a desire for a forever home.
They found their plot on Rightmove, which was a brownfield site.
The original use of the land was a petrol station and later a garden machinery shop.
They leveraged their real estate experience to navigate the complexities of the project.
The planning process was relatively smooth, taking about six months.
They managed the project themselves while working full-time jobs.
It's crucial to be present on-site to make timely decisions.
They tendered key packages separately while keeping the builder involved.
They moved in just over 12 months after starting the build.
Top tips include not changing your mind and nailing down specifications early.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject #SelfBuildMortgage
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser. -
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, host Mike Pawley engages with Sarah Mattheson from Fleming Homes and Joe Higginson from Hugo Homes to explore the world of custom building and timber frame construction. They discuss the history and values of their respective companies, the benefits of timber frame homes, and the challenges faced by self-builders. The conversation also delves into the importance of collaboration between builders and suppliers, the advantages of a free design service, and the innovative Plot Collective initiative to make land more accessible to aspiring homeowners.
We discuss:
☑️ Fleming Homes has a rich history of timber frame construction.
☑️ Custom building is becoming more mainstream and accessible.
☑️ The free design service helps self-builders visualize their projects without upfront costs.
☑️ Timber frame construction is faster and more efficient than traditional methods.
☑️ Self-builders often need guidance and support throughout the building process.
☑️ The Plot Collective connects potential self-builders to available land.
☑️ Timber frame homes are highly thermally efficient and sustainable.
☑️ Common myths about timber frame homes can be debunked with education.
☑️ Collaboration between builders and suppliers enhances the self-building experience.
☑️ Self-build is a significant emotional and financial commitment for individuals.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject #SelfBuildMortgage
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser. -
Building your own home sounds like the dream.
But what actually happens once you buy the plot and start the build?
In this episode of The Self Builders Podcast, we speak with Sanjay, who shares the story behind building his 6,000 sq ft self-build home near Woburn, from spotting the perfect plot and paying over the guide price to managing trades, materials, and planning changes along the way.
Sanjay talks openly about the reality of the process:
• how he found the plot
• why he offered over 20% above guide price
• the planning changes that added extra space to the house
• managing materials and deliveries himself
• choosing the right builders and trades
• the mistakes and risks that come with self-buildingThere are also some brilliant practical takeaways for anyone considering a self-build, including how to work with planning officers, why relationships with suppliers matter, and why having the right people around you makes all the difference.
If you're planning a self-build or renovation project, this conversation is packed with real-world insight.
Listen now and learn from someone who has been through the entire journey.
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources#SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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In this episode of the Self-Builders podcast, host Sam Taylor and Mike Pawley welcome Andy Howes, who shares his journey of building his dream home.
Andy discusses the challenges and decisions he faced, from choosing the right construction method to navigating the mortgage process and making design choices. He emphasizes the importance of understanding ground conditions, managing the construction process, and the value of having experienced guidance. As he nears completion of his project, Andy offers valuable tips for aspiring self-builders, highlighting the significance of planning and project management.
We discuss the importance of:
Clear plans
Accurate prices
The difficulties with finding land, particularly in the South
How to make or break your budget
The importance of having experts in your corner
Top tips Andy learned from his own experience
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/b...
📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources:
https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/f...
#SelfBuild #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject #SelfBuildMortgage
The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser. - Laat meer zien
