In the world of construction, money is king. The big fat dollar, the lumbering stumbling euro, the crisp and ancient pound sterling – no matter where you are, you won’t be able to build a cardboard shack without the appropriate funds.
This becomes even more of a problem where personal finance is concerned. Being able to build a home of your own is a pipedream for everyone except Grand Designs participants and Russian oligarchs.
In more extreme circumstances, even adding an extension to your house can be more financially traumatic than a loan shark beating down your door with a double-barrelled shotgun.
What do you do? Where do you go? How will you live without an extra bathroom?
The answer lies in cutting corners WITHOUT skimping on quality.
You might think of this as an impossible balancing act. After all, how can you enjoy the best quality goods at a lower price?
To help you out, we’ve come up with a few budget suggestions that will give you high-quality building materials without breaking the bank.
Find the right provider
Imagine a cigar-chomping, string vest-wearing, barrel chested man cackling as he burns your money with a silver-plated lighter – for all you know, that’s the building material supplier you’ve just phoned.
That’s not to say all are untrustworthy. But the internet exists to help you weed out the wheat from the chaff.
Check Google Reviews to find the best building material suppliers BEFORE you call – and peruse their rates thoroughly.
For our money, Marchington Stone provides high-quality building materials. And many of their options are reconstituted, meaning the cost is low.
Get eco-friendly
If you’ve ever seen Grand Designs (and this writer has watched it far too often) you’ll know that eco-friendly builds are consistently cheaper than traditional options, and provide a rustic aesthetic that’s unique and attractive.
Research alternatives to concrete and wood frames. Who knows, you might find a better option.
Get real
That’s right Grandad, get with the times. No bank is doling out loans willy-nilly anymore, so your proposal will have to be realistic.
Instead of that pie in the sky mansion you’ve always desired, try for a smaller build. That way, the home of your dreams will pass through the administrative net like butter through a sizzling oven door.
Think geometrically
Like every great mathematician, let’s keep things simple. While you might want a home that resembles a Salvador Dali nightmare, basic geometric shapes will keep the costs of your property low.
Get experimental
There’s nothing like a home that looks unique – so why not try materials that are a little left-of-centre?
Shipping containers are an effective example. They come cheap and can be used to construct a home that looks interesting and feels comfortable. It’s one example of thousands.
That’s our list! Got any ideas of your own? Then let us know in the comments below!
