Property-Howtofindaplot

Build your own home - how to find a plot

10 expert tips by self-build specialist Michael Holmes

Finding a plot is the number one obstacle for people wanting to build their own home, according to a recent report from the National Custom and Self Build Association (NaCSBA). 1) Patchwork Plot: Assemble a site from smaller parcels of land such as ‘infill’ plots from the ends of two or three adjoining gardens. 2) Future Vision: Don’t discount a site you like just because the current planning permission is for something you don’t want to build. You can vary the existing permission or make a new application. 3) Team Building: Small sites for 2-5 houses are often easier to find than single plots - consider forming a self-build group with friends of family. 4) Land Databases: Try www.plotfinder.net 5) Register of Interest: Going through the planning records of previous applications for single dwellings in your chosen area may lead to a plot. 6) Grow Your Own: ‘Garden grabbing’ has become politically sensitive but it’s still a good route.

7) Widen The Net: Plots are harder to find than houses, so looking further afield to improve your chances. 8) Call My Agent: Work out which local estate agents specialise in land and development and stay in touch with them. Regular contact will ensure they know you’re serious. 9) Boots on the Ground: Ask in local shops, pubs, and on building sites if there are any plots for sale. Use maps and Google Earth to search for hidden potential. A ‘map search’ via HM Land Registry will reveal the owner’s details if the land is registered. 10) Brownfield Land: It takes imagination to see a disused industrial unit or a scrap yard as the site for a beautiful home, but ‘brownfield land’ can have potential - always take advice before buying. Michael Holmes will be speaking at the London Homebuilding & Renovating Show 30 Sep – 2 Oct ExCeL London E16 1XL Get 2 free tickets at: www.london.homebuildingshow.co.uk/pr-SussexLocal

The right approach to moving

Henry Adams proud of Feefo customer service Platinum Award

Buying or selling a property is said to be among the most stressful things to cope with. C h a i n s , s ea r c h es t h a t uncover restrictive covenants, gazumping can all block even the most straightforward deal. Utilising the services of a professional and knowledgeable estate agent can go a long way towards alleviating some of the pitfalls. Gareth Overton (pictured above), Head of Sales at Henry Adams Estate Agency, has 20 years experience in residential sales and spoke to Sussex Local about their approach. Effective marketing he said, is a key priority in helping clients to find their ideal property or sell to their best advantage. He explained that the highly trained team will progress a sale or purchase from the start to exchange and completion which is often the trickiest part but vital for a successful outcome. Henry Adams was founded in 1990 by the late Henry Adams, in partnership with Simon Lush who is still a consultant with them today. As well as property sales and lettings, Gareth told us that the company provides a range of other services including domestic and commercial property valuations, development land agency, rural and farming consultancy and advice on the management of equestrian property. Gareth is immensely proud of his team - “they are simply great!” and he is confident that consistent dedication to customer service is the key to continued success in the future. “We continue to streamline our processes behind the scenes so that we can focus on what matters most to our customers. Everything we invest in is designed to help our clients or our teams, as you can see from all our reviews on Feefo where we’ve received the Platinum Award for consistent excellence in customer service.” Henry Adams Estate Agency & Chartered Surveyors. Offices across the county www.henryadams.co.uk