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The Self Builders Podcast

Mayflower Mortgage

The Self Builders Podcast is a practical, straight‑talking podcast for anyone planning, funding, or building their own home.

Hosted by industry experts who work with self‑builders every day, the podcast breaks down the real‑world challenges of self‑build projects — from finding land and securing planning permission, to understanding build costs, managing cashflow, and getting the right finance in place.

Each episode features honest conversations with professionals across the self‑build journey, including architects, planners, surveyors, lenders, and self‑builders themselves. We cut through the jargon, bust common myths, and share lessons learned from real projects — including what went wrong, what worked, and what we’d do differently next time.

Whether you’re at the early “dreaming and research” stage, already own a plot, or are mid‑build and feeling the pressure, The Self Builders Podcast is designed to give you clarity, confidence, and practical insight to move your project forward.

No sales fluff. No theory. Just real advice for real self‑builders.

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S3 · E6
Monday · 24 min
My first-ever home is a self-build
Sophie designs buildings for a living. She still says she'd do things differently. In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Sophie, a structural engineer who is partway through building her first ever home on a family plot in Shropshire — while living and working in London, three and a half hours away. She's never had a standard mortgage. Her first one is a self-build mortgage. Sophie is candid about what her professional background did and didn't help with, why she's glad she didn't project manage it herself, and the small design decisions she'd revisit if she started again. This episode covers: • Building your first ever home rather than buying one • Adapting existing planning permission rather than starting from scratch • Going through two architects before finding the right fit • Why she chose traditional block and brick construction • Handing the shell to a builder, and taking over from watertight • The utility connection costs that catch people out, including three phase electricity • What happens when your valuation comes back higher than your budget • Managing a build remotely, and the trade-offs that come with no fixed deadline Sophie's advice for the planning stage is refreshingly specific: find an architect whose existing work you actually like, and when your approval comes through, read the conditions properly — then read them again. Her advice for anyone mid-build is simpler. Enjoy it. She says she'll be a little sad when it's finished. If you're a first-time buyer considering a self-build, managing a project from a distance, or wondering how much a professional background really helps, this episode is an honest and encouraging listen. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual's needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S3 · E5
September 28 · 27 min
This is my third self-build
Neil has built three family homes. He calls this one the last one. He's said that before. In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Neil, a property developer who has now built four homes across two roads — and is four months into the biggest one yet, a 14,000 sq ft ICF new build with a substantial basement, replacing a house from the early eighties. As his architect once told him, he doesn't love the finished product. He loves the process. Neil is unusually well placed to talk about what carries over from one build to the next: the floor plan mistakes he's repeated, the features he thought he wanted and never used, and the confidence it takes to overrule the professionals when you're the one who has to live there. This episode covers: • Buying a plot with no planning and gambling on the planners' support • Using a planning performance agreement to speed the process up • Why he chose ICF, and how quickly the shell goes up • Self-managing the build with his own team for the first time • Working from a QS cost estimate, and why he expects to exceed it • Why the cheapest build often costs more over the following five years • The sheer volume of decisions a self-build demands, and the time that takes • Knowing when to overrule your architect, engineer or builder Neil's best money is spent before anything is built: a really good architect, and enough time with them to get the decisions right at the start rather than changing things mid-project. His worst? A £50,000 scaffolding quote. Necessary, and you get nothing to look at for it. And his advice for anyone stuck mid-build: put yourself six months into the future. Whatever is going wrong right now will be dealt with by then. There is almost always a way through — it just costs time, money, or both. If you're planning a demolition and rebuild, weighing up ICF, considering managing the build yourself, or on your second project and wondering what you'd do differently, this episode is full of perspective you only get from doing it repeatedly. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #ICFBuild #SelfBuildUK The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual's needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S3 · E4
September 21 · 25 min
We started our barn conversion at 22
Bethany and Chris were 22 when they started. A lot of people told them they were too young. In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Bethany Travis, who is partway through converting a derelict barn on her grandma's farm in the Peak District into her and Chris's first home. They'd been snubbed at building shows because of their age, and told repeatedly that a project this size wasn't for them. Three years on, they've secured full planning permission in one of the country's strictest planning authorities, underpinned an entire barn that had no foundations, and are hoping to be watertight by the end of the year. Bethany is completely open about what they didn't know at the start, and about the one approach that has kept the whole thing manageable: treating every stage as its own mini project rather than one enormous one. This episode covers: • Starting a self-build in your early twenties, and being taken seriously • Converting a derelict barn on family land • Getting planning permission inside a National Park • Underpinning a barn with no existing foundations • Why breaking the build into mini projects stops it becoming overwhelming • Using a structural and civil engineer to get comparable, accurate quotes • Self-funding the early stages, then moving onto a self-build mortgage • Playing to your strengths as a couple, and what a supportive neighbourhood is worth Bethany's advice to anyone younger who's thinking about it: back yourself. Nobody knows what they're doing at the start. Chris learned to drive a digger a few weeks ago. Work out what each of you is good at, vet everyone you bring on, and remember that the right team are your cheerleaders — the people you call when something goes wrong. And her advice for planning: listen to what the planners are actually asking of you. Work with them and they'll work with you. If you're early in your career and wondering whether a self-build is realistic, sitting on family land you don't know what to do with, or facing a barn that looks impossible, this episode is proof it can be done. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #BarnConversion #SelfBuildUK The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual's needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S3 · E3
September 14 · 31 min
Three brokers said no before we found a yes
Three brokers told Nicki and Emma their house couldn't be mortgaged. They were days away from losing it. In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Nicki and Emma, who ended up with a renovation project entirely by accident. They were looking for a very specific layout in a very specific part of the west of Scotland, and after months of searching it came down to one house or no house. The house is a converted farm building, beautiful in the photos, but renovated a decade ago to a standard they describe as negligent in places. What they thought was a damp proofing job has turned into a full scope of works with an architect, a structural engineer and a conservation-experienced builder. They're a year in, with around 18 months still to go, and they're refreshingly honest about the middle stretch where both of them wondered what on earth they'd done. This episode covers: • Buying a renovation project you weren't looking for • Why the survey wasn't what revealed the real problems • Finding an architect with the right skill set, and rejecting the ones without it • Why a full schedule of works before quoting saves money later • Being told a property is unmortgageable, and what actually happened next • Getting a three-year renovation mortgage in five days after months of no • Buying in Scotland with an English lender, and the extra surveys that came with it • Replacing £45-a-day electric heating with an air source heat pump Nicki and Emma's biggest lesson is about people. The right architect, the right builder, the right broker — every breakthrough in this project came from finally finding someone who listened rather than sucking their teeth at the problem. Their advice for anyone at the start: get a complete list of the problems before you start fixing any of them. Everything takes three times longer than you think, and involves at least two more people than you expected. And for anyone stuck in the middle of a renovation right now: it will end. Just keep going. If you're taking on a renovation, worried a property is too complicated to finance, or in the difficult middle stage of a project, this episode is an honest and encouraging listen. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #RenovationMortgage #SelfBuildUK #HomeRenovation The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual's needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S3 · E2
September 7 · 28 min
We turned a potato store into our home
Most self builders worry about running out of money. Denise actually did. In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Denise Franks, who left a large detached house on an estate to convert an agricultural building on the Lincolnshire and Peterborough border into a home. The building had Class Q permission and a previous life as a potato store. Denise and her husband sold their house quickly, moved into an old static caravan on site, and lived there for two and a half years while the build went on around them. Then, at plastering stage, the money ran out. She's completely open about that moment, what it took to keep going, and why having someone who genuinely understood self-build finance made the difference. This episode covers: • What Class Q permission is and why it was their route in • Going back for full planning to add a mezzanine second floor • Handling neighbour objections during the planning process • Living on site in a static caravan, and what she'd do differently • Working with a local builder who'd never done a barn conversion • Where the budget actually went, and the costs that crept up • Getting a self-build mortgage partway through the build • Solar, batteries and an air source heat pump, and an electricity bill that's now barely more than the standing charge Denise's biggest regret? Not planning further ahead, and not spending a little more on expertise where it mattered. Her biggest lesson is about honesty. She was able to tell her builder exactly how much money was left before it ran out, and that conversation kept the project moving. Choose someone you can have that conversation with. And her advice for anyone halfway through and struggling: a low point is normal. Don't lose sight of what you're building or why. If you're considering a Class Q conversion, weighing up living on site, or worried about what happens if the money runs short mid-build, this episode is an honest, reassuring listen. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #ClassQ #BarnConversion The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual's needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S3 · E1
August 31 · 41 min
Don't start with an architect!
What if the first person you called wasn't an architect? In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Charlie, who bought a tired 1,200 sq ft bungalow on an acre in Berkshire, knocked it down, and replaced it with a 4,500 sq ft three-storey ICF home that blends Georgian proportions with modern, highly energy-efficient construction. Charlie project-managed the entire build himself over three and a half years, and he's refreshingly honest about what made it work: research, strategy, and being on site almost every single day. He also shares the one piece of advice he repeats more than any other — get a planning consultant on board before you speak to an architect. It's a reversal of how most self builders start, and Charlie explains exactly why it changed the outcome of his project. This episode covers: • Why a knockdown and rebuild is often easier than finding a plot • Why a planning consultant should come before an architect • Using permitted development rights and a heritage consultant to get planning through • Building on a sloping site, and why he built a retaining wall instead of a basement • What ICF construction actually is, and why he chose it over timber frame • The realities of project managing your own build and coordinating multiple trades • Delivering the whole project at around £250 per square foot • Running an all-electric home with no mains gas, and why air conditioning was his best decision Charlie's biggest lesson? Be there. He was away from site for just five days across the whole build, and something went wrong on every one of them. If you can't be there yourself, he says, have someone independent of your builder who can. His other message is about pace. When a problem appears, the instinct is to fix it and crack on. Charlie's advice is to stop, step back, and consider the knock-on effects before you commit — because it's always cheaper to think now than to unpick it later. If you're planning a knockdown and rebuild, considering ICF, weighing up an all-electric home, or wondering whether to project manage your own build, this episode is full of practical, hard-won detail from someone who has just done it. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #ICFBuild The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual's needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E14
July 13 · 26 min
We lived in a caravan to build our dream home
What would you sacrifice to build your dream home? Would you sell your house, move into a caravan, and live on-site while managing your self-build? In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Rachel to hear the honest story behind her self-build journey: from buying a plot with planning permission to living in a caravan during the build, all the way through to completing the home she still loves today. Rachel shares the highs, the lows, the stress, the unexpected costs, and the moments that made it all worth it. Her story is a brilliant reminder that self-build isn’t always easy, but with the right mindset, the right team, and the determination to keep going, the rewards can be life-changing. This episode covers: • How Rachel got started with self-build • Buying a plot with planning permission already in place • Selling her home to fund the build • Why she moved into a caravan on-site • Managing the build while working from home • Budgeting for unexpected costs • Where extra money gets spent during a self-build • The reality of being over budget • Choosing the right builder and trades • The most stressful stages of the build • Mistakes Rachel would avoid next time • The small details that make a big difference • Why finishing strong matters • What life feels like after moving in Rachel shares one message throughout the episode: Just keep going. Self-build can be stressful, exhausting and overwhelming at times. But every challenge gets you closer to the home you’ve worked so hard to create. Now, years after completing the build, Rachel still has moments where she walks into her kitchen, looks out through the sliding doors into the garden, and reminds herself exactly why it was all worth it. If you’re planning a self-build, currently mid-build, or feeling overwhelmed by the journey, this episode is full of reassurance, perspective, and honest advice from someone who’s been through it all. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: Mayflower Booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: Free Self-Build Resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #DreamHome The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E13
July 6 · 41 min
Self-build without the stress?
For many people, self-build is exciting in theory. But in reality, managing planning, utilities, contractors, budgets and timelines can feel overwhelming. In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Adrian and Mike from Greenlee Developments to explore a different route: custom build. Greenlee specialises in sourcing land, securing planning, and delivering high-quality bespoke homes through a model that gives buyers the flexibility to personalise their home, without the pressure of managing the entire build themselves. The conversation explores how custom build sits between traditional self-build and buying from a standard housebuilder, why demand for this model is growing, and how Greenlee helps clients create homes that feel truly personal. This episode covers: • What custom build actually means • How it differs from self-build and standard housebuilding • Why custom build is growing in popularity • The benefits of a turnkey self-build solution • How Greenlee helps source land and secure planning • Why early-stage planning and due diligence matter • Common challenges in self-build projects • The importance of utilities, infrastructure and site servicing • Why early customer involvement improves project outcomes • How buyers can personalise layouts, finishes and specifications • The role of expert teams in reducing risk and stress • Why collaboration creates better homes Adrian and Mike share a clear message throughout this episode: Building a bespoke home doesn’t have to mean taking on every challenge yourself. With the right team around you, it’s possible to create a home tailored to your lifestyle, while avoiding much of the complexity that comes with traditional self-build. This episode is ideal for anyone exploring self-build, custom build, land opportunities, or alternative ways to create a home that truly works for them. You can find out more about Greenlee Developments here: https://www.greenlydevelopments.co.uk/ 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #CustomBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #DreamHome #PropertyDevelopment The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E12
June 29 · 26 min
Home by Milestone - Immersive way to discover your project
What if self-build decisions were easier? One of the biggest challenges in any self-build project is knowing what decisions to make, when to make them, and how those choices affect everything else down the line. In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Michael from Home by Milestone, an innovative new centre designed to help self-builders, renovators, developers and industry professionals make better decisions earlier in the building journey. Located in the historic Masson Mills, Home by Milestone is far more than a traditional showroom. It’s an immersive experience where visitors can explore sustainable building products, understand how modern systems work together, and learn what it really takes to create healthier, more energy-efficient homes. The conversation dives into Passivhaus principles, sustainable construction, and why collaboration between designers, suppliers, builders and finance experts can dramatically improve project outcomes. This episode covers: • What Home by Milestone is and why it was created • Why it’s different from a traditional construction showroom • Passivhaus explained in simple terms • Why energy-efficient homes are becoming the future • The key principles behind better building performance • Why build quality matters just as much as product choice • Common self-build mistakes made too late in the process • Why early-stage decision making is so important • How poor collaboration creates costly delays and issues • The importance of aligning design, build and finance early • How sustainable building can improve comfort and reduce running costs • Where self-build and construction is heading over the next 5–10 years Michael shares a powerful perspective throughout this episode: The future of construction isn’t just about better products. It’s about better planning, better collaboration, and better decisions from day one. If you’re planning a self-build, renovation, or major construction project, this episode offers valuable insight into how to future-proof your home and avoid costly mistakes. You can find out more about Home by Milestone here: Home by Milestone 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: Mayflower Booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: Free Self-Build Resources #SelfBuild #Passivhaus #EcoBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SustainableBuilding The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E11
June 22 · 26 min
Two self-builds later... here's what I'd do differently
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with returning guest Andy, who shares his journey through multiple self-build projects, from a modest first build to much larger and more complex developments worth over £1 million. Andy talks openly about what he and his wife learned along the way, including the mistakes they made, what they would do differently, and the lessons that only come from going through the process yourself. The conversation covers everything from funding challenges and development finance to planning issues, legal mistakes, heat pumps, building control, and why having the right team around you can make or break a project. This episode covers: • How Andy completed his first self-build for around £120k • Scaling from a small build to much larger projects • The reality of managing bigger, more complex builds • Why resale value matters, even if you plan to stay long term • Common planning and legal mistakes to avoid • Lessons learned around building control and regulations • Heat pump challenges and choosing the right installer • Self-build mortgages vs development finance • Why cash flow can make funding much easier • The importance of working with experienced professionals • Why your solicitor can have a huge impact on your project • The biggest lessons Andy has learned after multiple builds Andy’s biggest takeaway? You get what you pay for. Whether it’s your broker, solicitor, architect, or build team, having the right people around you can save huge amounts of stress, time, and money. If you’re planning your own self-build, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical advice from someone who has been through the journey multiple times. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E10
June 15 · 32 min
The Smartest Eco Home Investment
When people think about building an energy-efficient home, they usually focus on heat pumps, solar panels and insulation. But there’s one part of the process that often gets overlooked: ventilation. In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Mandip from Solarcrest to break down why modern airtight homes need properly designed ventilation systems, what MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) actually does, and why “build tight, ventilate right” has become such an important principle in modern self build design. The conversation explores how ventilation impacts everything from comfort and running costs to condensation, mould, air quality and long-term building performance. Mandip also explains why so many self builders leave ventilation decisions too late, and the expensive consequences that can create later in the build. This episode covers: What MVHR actually is in simple terms Why modern homes need ventilation systems The relationship between airtightness and energy efficiency Why ventilation should be planned early Common mistakes self builders make The hidden costs of retrofitting systems later Why not all MVHR systems are equal The importance of fabric-first design Heat pumps, insulation and whole-home performance How to create a healthier, lower-running-cost home You can find out more about Solarcrest here: https://solarcrest.co.uk/ PLUS, Solarcrest are one of the expert businesses that contribute to Mayflowers' Self-Build Savers Solution, meaning you get a discount with them, when you work with us. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E9
June 8 · 28 min
How Custom-Build really works
"Self-Build" and "Custom-Build" terms can be used interchangeably. But they are in fact different routes. In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, host Jack speaks to Helen and David about how a normal house search unexpectedly turned into a custom build journey. What started as a plan to buy a finished property in Henley-on-Thames evolved into an opportunity to work directly with a local developer to create a bespoke home tailored around their lifestyle. The conversation explores the realities of custom build projects, including how much flexibility buyers actually get, how stage payment mortgages work, what decisions they could influence, and the importance of having the right professionals around you throughout the process. Helen and David also share the lessons they learned around contracts, Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) payments, landscaping costs, snagging, and managing the relationship with a developer while still ensuring the home truly feels like their own. This episode covers: The difference between self build and custom build How they found their plot through a normal house search Working directly with a local developer What parts of the design they could and couldn’t change How stage payment self build mortgages work in practice Why they hired an independent surveyor Hidden costs people often overlook Managing budgets, specifications and payment stages The importance of clarifying responsibilities early What they’d do differently next time If you like the idea of creating a more personalised home, but don’t want the pressure of managing a full self build project yourself, this episode offers a valuable look into a route that sits somewhere between a traditional house purchase and a full self build. Brought to you by Mayflower Mortgage & Finance. Helping self-builders navigate the financial side of their projects with confidence. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E8
June 1 · 33 min
Two self-builds in four years!?
What happens when you finally build your dream home… and realise it still isn’t the life you wanted? In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, our host Jack speaks to Lindsay about the emotional and financial reality of building not one, but two self-build homes in just four years. From navigating material price spikes during COVID, mortgage challenges with ICF construction, and living on-site in a touring caravan, to eventually creating a modern eco home in the middle of the Welsh countryside, this episode covers it all. Especially why their first build, despite being beautiful, ultimately forced a difficult decision, and how the experience completely changed the way they approached their second project. We cover: Why their first self build became financially unsustainable The mortgage issues they faced building with ICF during COVID Lessons learned from managing two self build projects Why getting finance sorted early changes everything Living in a caravan while building on-site How they created an ultra-efficient eco home with low running costs The hidden costs self builders often miss Why contingency budgets matter far more than people think Honest advice for anyone currently mid-build or planning their first project This is a refreshingly honest conversation about the side of self building people don’t always talk about: the stress, compromises, financial pressure, and emotional decisions behind creating a home that genuinely works for your life. Brought to you by Mayflower Mortgage & Finance. Helping self-builders navigate the financial side of their projects with confidence. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E7
May 25 · 37 min
Planning loopholes self-builders may not know about
Finding self build land is hard enough. Finding land you can actually get planning permission on? Even harder. In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack speaks to Chartered Architect Caroline Martin about the three-year journey her family has been on to secure land for a very personal self-build project. What started as a search for a home that could support their son’s independence has evolved into a complex nine-dwelling planning application involving flood zones, archaeology, nutrient neutrality, overage clauses, and one planning policy that most self builders have never heard of. Caroline shares how understanding the government’s “Tilted Balance” planning policy opened up opportunities on land that most buyers and developers had overlooked, and why some of the best self build opportunities are often the sites that seem too difficult at first glance. This episode covers: What the “Tilted Balance” policy actually means How to identify land with hidden planning potential Why some rejected or difficult plots can become opportunities The reality of dealing with archaeology, phosphates and flood risk How Caroline is funding a multi-generational self build project Practical advice for navigating planning objections and local politics What self builders should look for before buying land If you’ve struggled to find land, felt overwhelmed by planning, or assumed certain plots were impossible to develop, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how experienced professionals approach the process, and what everyday self builders can learn from it. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E6
May 18 · 28 min
From farmland to a family home
Building your own home sounds exciting. But what is it actually like once you’re in it? In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, Jack sits down with Rebekah to talk through the reality of her self-build journey, from the moment the idea started on their farm, to where the project stands today. They cover: Why their land sparked the idea to build The reality of planning permission (and why it’s often the hardest part) Budget uncertainty, hidden costs, and why no one will give you a straight answer Groundworks, unexpected expenses, and decisions that spiral The emotional side of building — stress, doubt, and just keeping going Rebekah also shares what she’d do differently, what surprised her most, and her advice for anyone currently in the middle of a build. If you’re thinking about self-building, or already in the thick of it, this episode gives a much more realistic picture of what to expect. Brought to you by Mayflower Mortgage & Finance. Helping self-builders navigate the financial side of their projects with confidence. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E5
May 11 · 20 min
Keir's cottage renovation
In this weeks episode of the Self-Builders podcast, Keir shares his experience of self-building a new house and renovating an existing cottage, highlighting the challenges, successes, and key takeaways from the project. Takeaways Self-building requires careful planning and investment in preparatory work. Local expertise and community support can make the self-building process smoother and more rewarding. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Self-Building 06:23 Construction and Materials 11:50 Project Completion and Future Plans If you're looking to do your own large-scale renovation, this episode is packed with real-world experience that can help you avoid some of the same mistakes. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E4
May 4 · 31 min
Renovating a 1960's bungalow
Most people think self-build means starting from an empty plot. But sometimes the smartest route is transforming an existing property into something completely new. In this episode of The Self Builders Podcast, Jack speaks with John, who shares the story of how he transformed a modest 1960s bungalow into a modern, energy-efficient home designed to suit his lifestyle long into the future. After living in the same house for over 30 years, John and his wife wanted a home that was better suited to their needs, more sustainable to run, and designed with later life in mind. Instead of searching endlessly for the perfect property, they decided to buy a bungalow and completely reconfigure and extend it. In this episode we discuss: • why they chose to renovate and extend a bungalow rather than build from scratch • designing a home that works for both now and later life • navigating planning permission and permitted development rules • choosing the right builder for the project • funding the build through mortgage options and finance planning • creating an energy-efficient home with heat pumps, solar, and battery storage • the real running cost benefits of a modern eco-focused renovation John also shares what the process was really like, what went smoothly during the build, and the key lessons he would pass on to anyone considering a similar project. If you're considering a major renovation or thinking about future-proofing your home, this episode offers valuable insight into how thoughtful planning can create a home that works for decades to come. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E3
April 27 · 28 min
Building my own home with almost no contractors
Building your own home is one challenge. Building it largely on your own is another entirely. In this episode of The Self Builders Podcast, Jack speaks with Adrian, who shares the remarkable story of building his own home from the ground up after years of struggling to get planning permission for his original renovation project. What began as a plan to renovate an old cottage eventually turned into a full self-build project after expert planning advice revealed a completely different route forward. Adrian explains how the project evolved, why he chose an ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) build method, and how he has managed to keep costs under control by doing the vast majority of the work himself. In this episode we discuss: • how planning rules in the green belt changed the entire project • why demolishing the old cottage opened the door to a new build • choosing ICF construction for airtightness and energy efficiency • managing a self-build project largely on your own • how organisation and planning keeps the build moving forward • keeping costs under control with trade accounts and DIY labour • the realities of building a home yourself Adrian also shares the mindset that has helped him tackle such a huge project step by step — focusing on small daily progress rather than the full scale of the challenge. If you're considering a self-build, this episode offers a fascinating insight into what’s possible with determination, planning, and the right approach. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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April 20 · 44 min
Renovating AND self-building in one go.
In this episode of The Self Builders Podcast, Jodie and James share the full story behind their self-build journey: from renovating a 17th-century cottage to splitting their land and building a brand new home next door. Yes - both in one go! They talk honestly about the highs and the challenges along the way, including planning issues, neighbour objections, managing trades, and the realities of trying to project manage a build while also working full time and raising a young family. Inside the episode they discuss: • how they found the property and decided to split the plot • renovating the original cottage before starting the self-build • planning objections and dealing with difficult neighbours • project managing the build themselves • what went well during the early construction stages • where things became more difficult during the finishing stages • the biggest lessons they would apply if they built again Despite the challenges, the project ultimately resulted in a beautiful family home, and plenty of valuable lessons for anyone thinking about taking on a self-build project themselves. If you're considering building your own home, this episode is packed with real-world experience that can help you avoid some of the same mistakes. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildMortgage #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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S2 · E1
April 13 · 24 min
Building my dream home in 11 months
In this episode of the Self-Builders Podcast, we speak with a homeowner who completed a full self-build project in the UK. From buying the plot to moving into a brand new, self-built five-bedroom house, in just 11 months. He shares what motivated him to build instead of buying on the open market, how he found the plot, and what the journey looked like from planning permission through to construction and completion. Self-build projects can feel daunting at first, but this conversation gives a realistic look at what the process involves and where preparation makes the biggest difference. In this episode we discuss: 🎤 Why some buyers choose self-build instead of buying an existing home 🎤 How this project went from plot purchase to completion in around 11 months 🎤 The process of finding contractors and managing trades 🎤 The planning permission journey and dealing with local authorities 🎤 Why preparation (soil tests, asbestos checks, material supply) is critical 🎤 The benefits of brick-and-block construction for resale and mortgage options 🎤 How material sourcing can dramatically affect build costs 🎤 The challenges of interior finishes and design decisions 🎤 How financing a self-build project works in practice 🎤 Practical lessons and tips for anyone considering building their own home Self-building isn’t always the easiest route, but as this project shows, with the right preparation and structure it can be an incredibly rewarding way to create a home that fits your life perfectly. If you’re exploring your own self-build project and want expert guidance on financing, Mayflower Mortgage specialises in helping clients structure their projects from start to finish. 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/booking 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources #SelfBuild #SelfBuildUK #SelfBuildProject #SelfBuildMortgage The views and information discussed in this video/podcast are intended for general informational purposes and do not constitute regulated mortgage or financial advice. Mortgage recommendations depend on a full assessment of an individual’s needs, objectives, and financial situation. Before making any decisions, please ensure you obtain personalised advice from a suitably qualified and authorised mortgage adviser.
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