How to Find the Right Land For Your Self-Build Project

As a property developer I have my ear to the ground and a book full of contacts. People call me and offer land and properties to me. It is worth it to them because I might be interested and I would provide them with a finders fee. This has taken me years though. However I still go back to basics when I start a search for a new piece of land to build on. For a recent self build plot I checked these opportunities.

The internet Increasingly important but not the be all and end all. Finding land for a self build project is convenient. I can do it with a coffee in one hand and toast in the other. It goes without saying you need fast connections and bookmarks. There are downsides to this search technology of course.

• It's popular - guaranteed there are hundreds if not thousands looking at the same site as you.
• Property sites may charge fees to join and search their database.
• You may get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information out there and be unable to make a decision.
• Prices and land can easily be out of date as the adverts remain on-line even though someone has purchased that piece of land you're after.

Estate agents

As well as local homes, estate agents will have plots and parcels of land available. A developer will often let a small chunk of land go if it doesn't fit in with a scheme and can turn a profit. Local builders will be your main competition as they are keen to snap up bargains for their own projects.

Auctions

Land bargains can be had at these but it can be risky for newcomers who might be out of their depth. In the know developers and builders are regulars and can spot a good deal. Its always best to observe a couple of auctions first to see how it is done before plunging in. Local newspapers will have details about auctions in your area.

Jon Black is a property developer and entrepreneur. Whether at home or for your business, seal all your important documents and notes with laminating paper and your packages with shipping tape.