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Thinking of Building Your Own Home? 7 Things You Need to Consider

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of building your own home—the Pinterest boards, the floor plans, the dream kitchen you’ll definitely cook more in (for a few weeks, at least).

But, there’s more to a successful self-build than choosing tiles and sketching out skylights. There’s the land, the laws, the logistics—and let’s not forget the budget surprises that love to sneak up when you least expect them.

If you’re serious about building your own home, this guide lays out seven essential things you need to know before breaking ground. No fluff, no filler—just straight-talking advice from a team that’s been helping people in your shoes for over 40 years.

Why Building Your Own Home Isn’t Just for Grand Designs Fans

The idea of a custom home used to be reserved for millionaires and architects with overly expensive glasses. Not anymore. In Greater Manchester, we’re seeing a rise in homeowners turning to self-builds as a more affordable and practical way to get what they actually want—space, efficiency, and long-term value.

But here’s the truth:

  • Finding suitable land in places can be trickier than it sounds

  • Planning laws and building regs aren’t optional—and they’re not light bedtime reading

  • Getting “a mate to sort the build” often ends in stress, delays, and spiralling costs

Building a home is a huge opportunity—but only if you treat it like the project it really is.

7 Must-Know Considerations Before You Start Your Build

1. Land is king—but it’s rarely perfect

Yes, you need a plot. But not just any plot. You’ll want one with:

  • Existing access to mains services (electric, water, drainage)

  • Realistic planning permission potential

  • Ground conditions that won’t bankrupt your foundations

Tip: Speak to someone who knows local restrictions. In parts of Rochdale, for example, conservation rules and flood zones can catch you off guard.

2. You’ll need a paper trail, not just a Pinterest board

That dream open-plan layout? It won’t happen without:

  • Architectural drawings

  • Structural calculations

  • Planning approval

  • Building regs compliance

It’s not just admin—it’s the skeleton of your project. Miss a step, and your build could stall before it starts.

3. Budgeting needs a brutal level of honesty

We all round down when we don’t want to face the truth—but a new build demands financial realism.

  • Allow 10–15% contingency minimum

  • Include every cost (design fees, groundworks, landscaping, waste disposal…)

  • Get fixed quotes where possible

A vague budget will cost you real money later.

4. Don’t underestimate the timeline

Even small builds can take 9–12 months from first spade to final snag. Weather, delivery delays, and last-minute changes all add time.

Plan for patience—and don’t book your removals van too soon.

5. DIY project management sounds cheaper. It isn’t.

Coordinating 8–10 different trades, deliveries, inspections and redesigns is a full-time job.

What usually happens:
You save money on paper but lose time, sleep, and control.
What works better:
Working with a local design & build company that does it all in-house (yes, like us).

6. Energy efficiency is the future—and the law

Building regs around insulation, heating systems, glazing and air tightness have become tighter. And rightly so.

You’ll need to think about:

  • U-values

  • EPC ratings

  • Sustainable heating and lighting options

7. Local builders beat “big brand” names every time

You want trades who:

  • Know local suppliers

  • Understand Greater Manchester planning processes

  • Don’t treat your job as one of hundreds

Our building company is based in Newhey, and we’ve worked across Littleborough, Oldham, Milnrow, and beyond. That local experience matters when your build’s on the line.

FAQs About Building Your Own Home

Can I build on agricultural land?

Not without applying to change its use (and that’s a process of its own).

Typically 4–8 weeks, depending on complexity and planning cycles.

Not always—but it can offer more value for your budget. You get exactly what you want without compromising on layout, style or efficiency.

Why Space Installations Is the Right Partner for Your New Build Project

Building a house isn’t about getting from A to B. It’s about doing it once—and doing it right.

At Space Installations, we don’t just handle the build. We plan, design, quote, coordinate, problem-solve, install, and finish—all under one roof. No chasing contractors, no half-finished jobs, and no unexpected gaps in communication.

Whether you’re starting with a napkin sketch or a full set of plans, we’ll meet you where you are and take it from there.

Book a Free New Build Consultation in Newhey

If you’re serious about building your own home—and want a trusted, local team to guide you every step of the way—get in touch today.

We’ll visit your site, review your goals, and give you clear, honest advice on what’s possible, what’s not, and how to bring your dream home to life.