Catchafire

Hi Everyone

We are starting to have discussions about building our home and wondered if anyone has been through this process using a franchised builder, stonewood, G J Gardner etc?

Or any do's and dont's regarding the process?

We we probably only do this once in our life ad we want to get right!

Thanks!

jmh

My mum's built three houses for her own use so far. She favours Lockwood houses but that's not to everyone's taste. She's itching to build another one now.

BEVS

Lockwoods tend to crack and creak so I am told. Something to do with the frame and the fit. Same with A1.

Mr BEVS is back Thursday.

As you know he works extensively on all the ' franchise' new builds. These include GJ , Jennian, Milestone etc. You name it -

What happens is the franchise take the project on and then farm it out to local contractors ( which can change from build to build ) to do the work.

One thing to watch is 'extras' & costs in changing your minds.

However, this is you ! I'll speak with Mr B and have him share his thoughts from his view.

jmh

The new Lockwoods don't. They've changed the way they are put together. Her latest which was built a few years back is silent as the grave - sort of.

Catchafire

Thanks everyone, JMH been looking at the Lockwood site, nice designs! Have booked marked them now.

I have been advised that a independent builder would be a better way to go, if you want someone who would listen to you better.

Also for us, we (ideally) would like to have a property that is made from more natural materials, straw bale or rammed earth (hi tec mud house). Which would cost more, but is more in keeping for what we would really like.