Build your way up the property ladder

Is now the right time to build your way out of the recession, up the property ladder and in to your dream home?

In today’s economic climate, is it wise to move up the property ladder, or stay put and ride out the financial storm? You could be excused ‘staying put’, given the difficulties in the housing market; however, there is an alternative. An army of self builders and home improvers have started building their way out of the recession and up the property ladder.

In the midst of the doom and gloom and dire predictions about the future of the housing market, some housing pundits say that there has never been a better time to build your own home, and self build and renovation specialist BuildStore has reported a surge in demand for its services in 2009.

With current market conditions creating a more favourable environment, self build and home improvement is becoming a realistic alternative for homeowners. BuildStore has seen a significant increase in interest from prospective home builders, looking to take advantage of the increased in land for sale, falling land and property prices, access to specialist mortgages, and availability of cheaper labour. The company’s National Self Build & Renovation Centre is hosting a three-day show in May, offering plenty of advice, support and inspiration for homeowners who are looking for ways to improve their position on the property ladder.

The National Self Build & Renovation Show will be held between 15th and 17th May, featuring a programme of ‘walking seminars’, product demonstrations, and workshops. Homeowners can get advice on finding land and renovation properties; learn about specialist financial products to fund and protect their project; find local reputable tradesmen; get access to special offers and discounts on materials; book one-to-one sessions with CAD designers to bring their plans to life; meet TV builder Tommy Walsh, and learn how to make their homes more energy efficient.

Tim Doherty of the National Self Build & Renovation Centre, comments: “The problems in the wider economy have left the property market stagnant, so homeowners are beginning to look at alternative ways to move up the property ladder and avoid negative equity. We believe that there has never been a better environment for homebuilding and home improvement projects, and predict that 2009 will see more homeowners turn into ‘home builders’.

“Our Show is interactive and dynamic, and with a refreshing mix of seminars, face-to-face consultations with experts, inspiring and informative exhibits, and live product showcases, all under one roof - it’s unlike any other event or exhibition. Whether you need help choosing your building system, want to learn how to tackle problems found in a renovation property, discover the latest in home appliances and tools, find reputable tradesmen, or discover the benefits and pay-back of the latest eco products, you can learn it all at the Self Build & Renovation Show and really get your property projects off the ground.”

For comprehensive and impartial advice on self build, renovation and home improvement, visit the National Self Build & Renovation Show (15th -17th May 2009) at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon, just off Junction 16 of the M4. To book tickets or for more information, visit mykindofhome.co.uk