Find Your Plot

Anyone trying to find a building plot for themselves needs plenty of patience and tenacity. Here are some tips gleaned from years of experience.

• Let estate agents know your requirements, but don’t rely on them alone – many plots aren’t sold through agents.
• Consider speaking with professional developers to see if they will release single plots from their land banks.
• Speak to the planning department of the local council – they may know of sites where planning permission has been applied for or granted. A friend in the planning department is a great advantage so work at building relationships.
• Spend your spare time driving slowly around the area you are looking – look for ‘infill’ plots, or plots right at the edge of built up areas. Ask neighbours for local information and history.
• Be prepared to knock on doors and ask questions.
• Look for small and run-down houses on good plots – and be prepared to ask the owners if they would consider selling.
• Look through local newspapers for planning information and auction ads.
• Don’t underestimate the overall cost of the project, either in time or money, especially in areas of high value housing.

And don’t forget, you can always call on the professionals:

Buying agents can be invaluable in finding land for prospective self builders. Not only will you be first to hear when a potential site is coming to the market, you will also be viewed as a serious buyer by any agent involved.

Our strong relationships with local estate agents often ensures that we hear about land for sale before, or as soon as, it comes onto the market. Estate agents are often keen to involve buying agents in land sales that are notoriously difficult to market. A piece of land, or dilapidated building, that is difficult to photograph and present, may attract a lot of interest, but often much of the interest comes from buyers who aren’t serious.

Our local contacts are essential to finding building plots. Land often sells by word of mouth within the local area so a serious buyer needs to have eyes and ears in the area on a daily basis.

We also ensure buyers aren’t making a big mistake. Buyers are often so excited to find a suitable plot that they overlook problems and disadvantages, especially locational, in the joy of the moment! We can also help with planning issues, and look at the costs involved compared with the likely finished value of the property.

You should also take the time now to understand the truth behind the urban myths surrounding “Unregistered parcels of land” and other property market jargon.

Explore ‘Our Offices‘ to find where we can help you find the perfect location for your self-build.