Barn Conversion

janz70

Hi, we have just found a barn to convert with full planning but where do we go from wanting it, to getting it, to converting it.

How will I know its worth the asking price
Where do I get a mortgage - will this have to be a specialist or do the high street banks deal with these as well.
Luckily all the plans are done but will I need just a builder - or others to oversee the project architect, project manager etc.
Will it need a survey done or must it have had one done to get planning permission

I must calm down Im flapping already :eek:

Doozergirl

Just typed a massive reply and lost it :wall:

Google self build and renovation mortgages. Some high street banks offer but there isn't a lot of choice and rates vary so I'd go straight to a comparison site to find where you'll get a decent deal.

The asking price you have to judge by assessing the end value, deducting the cost of the work and the price of the plot and seeing if you're happy with what is left over. For it to provide value for money, you should expect at least 20% of the final value left over as 'equity'. Self build should contain some financial reward. You don't take this on for the sheer love of it because you'll find very quickly that you don't love renovating a barn until it's finished.
Survey yes, but get builders out to quote first. They'll start pointing out the issues with the structure, hopefully the survey, when you're ready to proceed with the purchase and pay for the survey, it won't spring any surprises on you.

Time to start buying the magazines and The Housebuilder's Bible!
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1905959443/ref=asc_df_19059594433187802?smid=A3P5ROKL5A1OLE&!!!!!googlecouk06-21&linkCode=asn&creative=22206&creativeASIN=1905959443

I'd read this book and start choosing your build route. You can project manage yourself but it's a full time job and there is the issue of being inexperienced and possibly getting things wrong - it will be a case of trial and error. Or employing the architect or a separate project manager to project manage which will of course hold a higher up front cost than a straight DIY but may save you money during the build. Whatever happens, you should visit site every single day if you want it exactly to your own spec because people will always interpret what you've asked for slightly differently.

DannyboyMidlands

So the drawings that you have are full construction issue drawings rather than planning?