Building a home may be cheaper than buying one, but it is still a costly exercise. Not only do you have to ensure that you have proper plans and adequate finance, but you have to find the right plot. Looking for a building plot for sale is straightforward; finding one that suits your requirements and where building is allowed is a different proposition altogether.

Buying the land for your house uses up approximately one third of your overall budget for your house build. With this much money invested in it, it's important that you find a building plot for sale that actually meets your needs.

How do I find a building plot for sale?

Speak to a number of land agents and estate agents in your area. Many estate agents also deal in plots, and will be able to help you decide what sort of plot you need for your project and help you identify areas that fit in with your plans. You can employ a land agent to carry out a specific search for your plot, but this will involve an additional fee. If you can research building plots for sale on your own, you could save some of your budget.

It's also worth bearing in mind that any building plot for sale will be quickly snapped up - particularly if it already has planning permission. Land for new building is now becoming scarce and demand is high. Researching on the internet and establishing a good relationship with land agents and estate agents in your area could help you be at the top of the list when a new piece of land comes onto the market.

I've found a building plot for sale - what do I do now?

Firstly, go to the plot and have a look at it. You will need to take several factors into account before you decide to put in an offer for the land:

            -           is the plot in the right location for you - does it meet your requirements for amenities such as shops, schools and transport links?

            -           what are the neighbouring houses like? If you are planning a contemporary building, you may face opposition from neighbours with very traditional or period properties.

            -           will you be allowed to build on the land? It's very important to ensure that you will be granted permission to build on this piece of land.

-           is the neighbouring building plot for sale? If you are looking for open views and expansive landscapes, you need to check whether the neighbouring plots are also up for sale.

            -           will I be able to get utilities supplied to this site? You will need basic utilities for your building team during the project but you will also obviously need to route water, electricity, gas, sewerage and other essential                               services to your new home.

Once you have decided that a particular building plot for sale is right for you, put in an offer through the estate or land agent, or to the owner if they are selling direct. Be prepared to face some competition from other self-builders or from professional developers. If you are lucky and the plot is sold to you, take a deep breath - this is where the real work starts!

The first step in your project is to hire the right builder. Use www.findalocal-builder.co.uk to get a list of builders in your area, and then look at our other advice articles to see how to make sure you choose the best builder for you.