August 2016
Welcome to the August edition of i-build magazine! This issue is packed with inspirational projects and products as well as useful advice for your self-build.
Finance is a big topic of discussion, and the cause of a few sleepless nights for even the most experienced self-builder – how to access it, how to allocate it, and how to keep within budget. This part of the process is likely to be the first major hurdle you will have to overcome.
However, for a simple extension, raising the finance is a relatively straight-forward procedure, surely? Well not for John Churchett, who longed for some additional space for the growing needs of his family. Despite paying off his mortgage, three separate mortgage companies turned down his application on the basis that his timber framed house couldn’t be guaranteed to last for long enough to secure the loan. Within days, a self-build project became a more attractive – and realistic – prospect. With the help of BuildStore, John was approved a selfbuild mortgage and he went about starting from scratch! Read the full story on page 24.
Offering further guidance when it comes to finance, BuildStore’s Raymond Connor looks at the different lending options for self-build mortgages, including arrears and advance stage payment options. Turn to page 16 to find out more.
Elsewhere in this issue, we unveil the top considerations for loft spaces, explore the extensive range of water features on offer for your new garden and provide the ultimate guide for specifying and installing internal doors.
I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, if you’re coming to the end of your self-build project and would like to offer your home as inspiration to other budding house-builders, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at the usual address. Alternatively, if you’re just beginning your self-build journey, and would be keen for us to document your progress, do get in touch.
