Real Estate Guide: What Every UK Homeowner Should Know
Thinking about buying, building or extending your home? You’re not alone. Homeowners across the UK face the same questions – how much will it cost, when do cracks become serious, and what insurance actually covers? This page pulls together the most useful answers from our articles so you can make confident decisions without hunting down endless info.
Building vs. Buying in 2025 – What’s the Real Cost?
If you’re weighing a new build against an existing house, start with the bottom line. Building can be cheaper if you manage the design, choose affordable materials and avoid change‑orders. Our detailed cost breakdown shows average UK build expenses, from land purchase to finishing touches. Buying, on the other hand, often includes hidden fees like stamp duty and renovation costs. Compare both routes with a simple spreadsheet and you’ll see which option fits your budget better.
Foundation Health: When to Worry and When to Act
Cracks in a foundation are a common alarm bell, but not every crack means disaster. Small hair‑line cracks are usually harmless; anything wider than 3 mm should get a professional’s look. We explain how to measure crack width, what red flags to watch for, and when calling a structural engineer can save you thousands in future repairs. Knowing the right cement mix for repairs also helps you fix the problem the first time.
Extensions are a great way to add space without moving, but planning permission rules can be confusing. Under UK permitted development rights, you can add up to 8 m of ground‑floor extension and 4 m on the first floor, as long as the total doesn’t exceed 50 % of the original house footprint. Anything beyond that needs council approval. Our quick guide walks you through the limits and offers tips to keep the project on track.
Insurance doesn’t always cover foundation issues, especially if the damage is from subsidence or poor soil. Review your policy’s fine print – look for exclusions related to ground movement. If you’re in a high‑risk area, consider adding a subsidence rider. Knowing what’s covered before a problem arises can prevent nasty surprises when you file a claim.
Loft conversions can double your usable area, but not every loft is suitable. Low headroom, complex truss layouts or inadequate stair access can make a conversion impractical. Our checklist helps you spot these deal‑breakers early, so you don’t waste time on a project that can’t be done.
Choosing the right builder or contractor matters. In 2024, several home builders topped trust surveys thanks to transparent pricing and solid customer service. Look for reviews that mention on‑time completion, clean sites and clear communication. A good contractor will also guide you through warranties and after‑care, which is essential for long‑term peace of mind.
Finally, budgeting doesn’t have to be scary. Whether you’re planning a cheap bathroom remodel or a full‑scale house extension, break the project into phases, source materials early and negotiate with tradespeople. Small savings add up, and a realistic budget prevents mid‑project fund shortfalls.
Use the links below to dive deeper into each topic. From foundation crack size charts to the biggest construction companies worldwide, we’ve gathered all the practical info you need to keep your real estate journey smooth and successful.
