Self-Build vs Custom Build

So, you want to build a home that suits you? We don’t blame you. Getting a choice in how your home is built is a freeing and exciting endeavour. For those looking to explore this path, two primary routes will emerge for you.

You’ll sometimes hear them used interchangeably but they are actually quite different. they refer to distinct processes with different levels of involvement and control. We see a lot of clients come to us and ask what the difference is, so we put this article together to make it clear. Let’s break down the differences and see which one suits you more.

WHAT IS A SELF-BUILD?

Self-build is best defined as a process where an individual takes on the primary responsibility for managing and constructing their home. In a self-build project, you become more than a client, but an integral part of the team, overseeing many aspects of the build, from purchasing the land to hiring contractors, managing the budget, and ensuring the project stays on schedule.

Committing to a self-build is an opportunity to break off from the mainstream and take control of building your dream home. In taking this opportunity, a Self-Build can offer you a forever home. You don’t have to physically build the home (although you’re more than welcome to!) but rolling up your sleeves and helping to coordinate the different Self Build stages gives you a good insight into project management.

A self-build typically starts with an architect turning ideas into a design from a detailed design brief the self-builder creates. Your design team can take your creative concepts on board and develop them from initial ideas into reality. An architect isn’t the only professional you’ll need. You’ll also need an engineer, a builder, inspectors, tradespeople and a myriad of others to realise this project. This can either be done by the self-builder or by an external project manager.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A SELF-BUILD

As a self-builder, you can have full control over the design, materials, and construction process. This allows for a high degree of customisation, enabling you to create a truly unique home that reflects your personal style and needs. The reward is a home built exactly to your specifications.

You are responsible for coordinating different aspects of the build. This could include hiring architects, securing planning permission, sourcing materials, and managing contractors. While this gives you control, it also requires a significant time commitment and project management skills.

By taking on the role of project manager, you can potentially save money on contractor fees and have the flexibility to choose where to spend or save. However, costs can spiral if the project isn’t managed effectively. If you have the space in the budget, you may need to bring in a professional project manager.

With greater control comes greater risk. Self-build projects can be more stressful and complex, with the potential for unforeseen challenges. These challenges can inflate the budget and prolong the process, so it’s important to go in backed by thorough research and a skilled team.

WHAT IS A CUSTOM BUILD?

A custom build is a more guided approach where you work with a developer or custom build company to create a home that meets your specifications. In this process, the developer typically handles most of the construction and project management tasks, allowing you to focus on making key design decisions. This path is commonly seen on multi-plot sites that utilities, foundations and planning permission already in place. This eliminates the need to search and pay for a plot of land.

Custom build is a great option for those who want a bespoke home but prefer a more hands-off approach. It’s ideal for individuals who may not have the time, experience, or desire to manage a full-scale building project but still want a degree of control over the final design. You may not have the high level of creative freedom you get in a self-build, but the accessible nature of custom build can make the homebuilding process easier for all.

In a custom build, you work closely with a developer or builder who takes on the project management responsibilities. You have input into the design and layout, but the day-to-day management and construction are handled by professionals.

While not as flexible as a self-build, custom builds still offer customisation options. You can often choose from a range of designs, finishes, and layouts to create a home that suits your preferences. You may also face more restriction in terms of the style of build and materials allowed

Since the developer manages the project, your involvement is lessened, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life. This makes custom builds a popular choice for those who want a personalised home without the demands of self-managing a build.

With professionals handling the construction and project management, you’ll experience a lower risk of budget overruns, delays, construction challenges and other unwanted occurrences that can crop up in construction.

WHICH ONE COSTS MORE?

Unfortunately, there is no consistent answer to the cost of a self-build and a custom build. In most cases, a self-build will be cheaper if managed well, but the need for significant time investment and a higher risk of cost overruns can change that. A custom build may be a little more expensive upfront but provides a professional management team and peace of mind.

Taking on the role of project manager in a self-build can save you 10 – 30% of the build cost, which would have been the profit amount included by a main contractor in a custom build project. The contractor in a custom build has also provided a plot and utilities, which does alleviate early-stage risks, but increases costs.

If you have the skills, time, and desire to manage a construction project, a self-build can be more cost-effective. However, if you prefer a hands-off approach with professional oversight, a custom build, though more expensive, may be the better option.

WHICH ONE IS FOR YOU?

Deciding between a self-build and a custom build ultimately depends on your personal preferences. Self-builders are deeply involved in every stage of the process, while custom builders can focus on design choices and leave the construction details to professionals.

It can be a question control vs convenience, as self-build offers unparalleled control, allowing you to customize every detail. Custom build, on the other hand, provides convenience by outsourcing much of the work while still delivering a personalised home.

Self-builds require a significant time investment, both in terms of planning and ongoing project management. Custom builds allow you to step back and let the professionals handle the bulk of the work, saving you time and stress.

As the self-build experts, we may be a little biased, but it’s important to choose the path that fits your needs the most. Thinking of taking the self-build route? Why not set up a free consultation with one of our architects?