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Ask the EXPERTS

Essential advice on your problems with building, budgeting, DIY & planning from the most experienced names in the self build industry

BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO finding land

The first step in your self build journey is tracking down a viable building site. Keep yourself ahead of the competition with Build It’s top plot hunting tips

GROWING TINY HOMES

Could an odd patch of rural land be perfect for Jim and Nadia Mann’s tiny house project?

next month…

November issue on sale 25th September

focus on:

Julia Riddle, one of our planning experts at the Build It Live shows and the director at Castle Planning, explains the importance of hiring a planning consultant when applying to your local authority for permission to build

Contemporary creation

No strangers to major building projects, Kevin and Michelle Wood have successfully completed their first self build to create a modern family home

Above & beyond

Thanks to a modular extension, it took just four weeks to turn Alex and Lise Quan’s three-bedroom bungalow into a seven-bed house overlooking the fields and valleys of Axminster

Clear VISION

In self building their eco home on a Lakeland smallholding, Rick and Angie Cross have developed a far more sustainable lifestyle

Snowdonia sensation

Simon Baker has transformed this compact Welsh barn into a stunning modern home

Leafyretreat

John and Nicki Beavan spent almost a decade creating this stunning timber abode atop the branches of an ash tree on their farm

Wall Finishes & Starting on Second Fix

As first fix draws to an end and the walls get closed in, Chris Bates finds some works sail ahead, while others need a little more attention

Scheduling your project

Having an organised plan in place is key to completing your scheme on time and within budget, but how do you prepare it and what happens if things go off track? Emily Smith takes a closer look

Underfloor heating

If you are considering installing underfloor heating, read Sophie Vening’s guide to how it works, how much it’s likely to cost and the installation process involved

10ways to boost your home’s value

From quick makeovers to larger projects, we investigate which schemes offer a good investment of your time and money

SUPER SLIM glazed doors

Broad spans of glass paired with minimal framing bring a raft of aesthetic and practical advantages – but what are the key considerations to bear in mind?

AN INTRODUCTION TO smart home technology

Everyone can expect some level of automation and remote control in their homes these days – but self builders have an opportunity to create integrated systems that help to make life easier. Emily Brooks investigates the options

INFRASTRUCTURE & controls

What goes on behind the scenes in a smart home – and what are the are the options for operating your chosen system?

KEY AREAS FOR SMART TECHNOLOGY

We take a closer look at the main elements of your home that will benefit from smart tech

HOUSE DESIGNmasterclass

Appointing an architect to oversee your scheme through to completion can be a valuable investment in the long term, says Julian Owen

10 mistakes that will delay your build

Most home building projects will come up against potentially time-consuming problems, however, understanding the common pitfalls before you get started will help keep you on track, says Mike Hardwick

Making the most of a small floorplan

Architect Opinder Liddar shares his top tips on how to maximise existing space in your home

Rainwater Harvesting

Using this free, and plentiful, resource at home is good for the planet and your wallet. Nigel Griffiths discusses the essentials

Off-mains: foul drainage

If you aren’t connected to the mains sewage system, you’ll need to make sure you have the right provisions in place for your home’s waste. Tim Doherty explores the options

Self build & custom build mortgages

Looking to fund your bespoke home project? Each month we round up the best deals from leading lenders and update you on what you need to know to secure the right finance