Architecture Advice | RIBA Chartered XUL Architecture

Is It Cheaper To Buy Land And Build A House In The UK? │ XUL

Written by Daniel Nelson | Mar 29, 2023 11:00:00 PM

From small in-fill sites to generous countryside plots, the cost of buying land and building a house from scratch in the UK can vary widely. Various factors can come into play, from the footprint you have to work with to the materials you choose to use.

In some cases, we find that buying land and building a house can be cheaper than buying an existing property, particularly in areas with high property prices where there is limited supply. However, with any project, there are also additional costs to consider such as planning permission, architects fees, and construction costs, which can all add up quickly and make it more expensive than buying a property that has already been built.

Building a new house can be an exciting prospect. We can challenge convention, explore creative new ideas, and push innovation into a new light. But buying a piece of land and designing a new-build house can sometimes be a more time-consuming and complex process, requiring expertise and management skills from an architect and other professionals. When planning a project like this, you really need to invest not just your money but your time, mental energy, and passion. As with any build, there may be unforeseen delays and complications, which can add to the cost and estimated timescale, so it’s good to go into a project with an open mind.

The decision to buy land and build a house or buy an existing property will depend on how much you want to put into a project. That comes down to budget, your personal point of view, and often your lifestyle. Some people have always had the dream to build a house of their own, while others see it as an investment opportunity that’s too good to turn down. Think about what type of house you want to build and where you might want it to be. It’s always helpful to seek professional advice to help light the way and guide you along the journey to making your ideas a reality.