 |
|
|
|
| Self Build: Information Sources |
There is a lot of information out there but much of it is to be found in specialist sources. You must also assess the source of information in order to judge its usefulness, accuracy and quality.
Magazines
The first place many look as often available from high street newsagents. The magazines are particularly useful for inspiration or ideas. However they do have drawbacks; over emphasis on success, a bit of a 'cottages in the sun' feel, coffee table nature of some articles, and practical guidance spread over several months , not necessarily when you need it. There is also the question of their relationship with the house building and interior design industry who are major advertisers and sometimes have representatives on the editorial boards. Does this impact on their impartiality?
Books
More detailed and complete information. In our opinion they also have a more rounded view of the self build process. If you only read one book, we would recommend Mark Brinkley's Housebuilding Bibles. (details below). While mainly a practical book this book highlights some of the downsides and risks of self build and indicates the trade offs you will need to make.
Online Discussion Forums
One of the most practical ways to find an answer to a specific question in a hurry. If you face a problem it is likely some that someone else has had that problem before. Remember though that the advice you receive in a forum is not 'professional advice', that what worked for one person may not work for another selfbuilder as each self build is unique and that the advcice may indeed be wrong. Therefore use forums with care and where possible double check any advice
Other Self Builders
If you can find other self builders in your area, this can be a very useful source of advice, support and encouragement. It may also provide practical solutions to problems such as building plot location as you may be able to club together to buy a large building or development plot and then sub-divide it. Whether you can find local self builders is a bit hit or miss. One way is through online discussion forums. If you are interested in green construction methods you may be able to find a local group.
Online Resources
ebuild.co.uk is the UK's most comprehensive online resource for self builders. It is also independent of any other building related business although we do carry advertising. There are several other self build web sites but the majority either provide information as an add-on to their main business of self build mortgages/insurances/kits etc or are a marketing tool for their paper magazines. Therefore whenever you use a self build web site, ensure that you are aware of its business affiliations.
|
|
|
|
| Self Build: Further Information: General |
|
|
|
|
