Land! Yes it's all around yet nowhere to be found! That elusive plot that you need to build your home on! But don't despair 15% of new homes are built by self builders. The plots are out there!

Finding the plot of land that you need can be the most off putting aspect for most potential Self Builders. There are many people who would like to build their own home but are unable to locate the ideal plot to build upon, and then go and buy off the shelf.

To locate that elusive plot you must have several virtues, patience and persistence, then even more patience and persistence! You maybe one of the lucky ones who decides to build their own home and instantly finds the desired plot (yes it does happen).

For the rest of you, you will have to make a list of areas where you would like to build and also areas you would consider after that. Remember the greater the area the more likely you are to find that plot.

When looking at areas, consider not only the mileage from places of work etc, also consider the traveling time, and depending on quality of roads you could actually look further a field than you originally thought.

The main places to obtain land are still local estate agents. Check the areas and contact them on a very regular basis. Do not rely on them contacting you as this may not always happen. Local newspapers are also a good source so keep checking. If you like you can go down to the local planning office and see who and where applications are being submitted for detailed and outlined planning permission, you could possibly contact the applicants and enquire what their intentions are for the land, i.e.-are they willing to sell?

There are always the land agents that you can contact and register your interest with. These will cost you varying amounts, depending on number of counties you list and length of time you subscribe for.

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