This is the ultimate dream for some, and a total nightmare for others. We have all seen TV programmes with individuals who have gone to hell and back to build their dream home. That being said there are still those who want that experience, so to those of you who, at some stage, want to take on a project like this - this is aimed at you.

Typically, projects start with a plot of land; most people will start with land that already has planning permission to build. You can of course purchase land without planning permission, it will likely be cheaper however with planning there are no guarantees so buyer beware!

In most cases lenders will want to have seen you purchase the land from your own funds without any borrowings or loans. Then with the help of an architect or structural engineer you would get plans drawn up and present these to all the parties involved with providing you permission to build.

With all the permissions in place, a lender will normally then release funds on a draw down basis. Funding is normally staged around the build phases, grading and site preparation, foundation construction, framing, roofing, and installation of doors and windows and then on to the electrical and plumbing installation.

The finance begins on commercial terms so is more expensive than a conventional mortgage, and once the building is habitable and you have the completion certificate, the lender involved will normally convert the funding to the same terms as a normal mortgage.

The above is a simple overview of the funding involved in building your own home, the reality is that this is specialised lending. As a whole of market mortgage adviser, we have access to lenders that welcome these applications, so if we are able to help make your dream come true and assist in the production of your Grand Design then please do get in touch.