London Homebuilding & Renovating Show Guide September 2026 | Page 20

THE SELF BUILD THEATRE
Tools and tips from the best in the business.
From small plots to big builds, the Self-Build Theatre is where you’ ll find expert advice, practical tips, and real-life inspiration. Our free sessions, including brand-new talks and expert-led discussions, tackle your trickiest questions and guide you through every step of your dream home journey. Just take a seat and get ready to build with confidence.
13:00 12:30 12:00 11:30 11:00
10:30
Beginner’ s Guide to Self-Build: And How to Find Your Dream Building Plot
Explore the advantages of self-build and learn how you can save an average of 30 % on the cost of a bespoke, individually designed home. This session will guide you through the essential steps, from finding the perfect plot of land to selecting an architectural designer and choosing a build route that fits your needs. We’ ll examine the pros and cons to help you determine if self-build is the right path for you. Join us to unlock the potential of creating your dream home while maximising value and customisation. Mark Stevenson- Self-Build Expert
Build Costs Explained: How Much Will Your Project Cost? Plus a Guide to Reclaiming VAT
An expert guide to understanding build costs. Covering everything from high-level budget planning to the latest on labour and materials prices, this seminar will help you work out how to predict and manage costs, understand where there is scope to make savings without compromising quality, and ensure your project is completed on budget. Plus a guide to self-build stage payment mortgages and how to reclaim thousands of pounds in VAT on your new home. Tom Mcsherry- Finance Expert and Tim Phillips- Build Cost Expert
How to Find the Right Builder: And How to Be a Good Client
One of the UK’ s best-known builders reveals his tips on how to find, hire and work with the best main contractors and tradespeople. What should you look for, and what can you do to avoid difficulties? What do they expect from you? We explain the secrets of a successful relationship. Andy Stevens- Builder & Broadcaster
Mastering Planning Permission: How to Navigate the Planning Maze
Understanding the process and politics of the planning system is a key element of any self-build or major home improvement project, and it can seem complicated and unpredictable. This seminar explains the key stages, what you’ ll need to do, and how to navigate your way through the system. Presented by a leading self build planning consultant, you’ ll learn how to maximise your chances of success. Sally Tagg- Planning Expert
Wow Factor Design: And How to Get It!
Be inspired by this guide to making your home truly amazing through thoughtful, tried-and-tested design techniques. Our expert architectural designer reveals the must-have features to make your home special— both to look at and to live in— including the key principles for creating a healthy and sustainable home. Allan Corfield- Design Expert
Successful Project Management: How to Complete Your Home on Time and on Budget
Whether you opt for a design and build package company or prefer to manage your own team of subcontractors, this insider’ s guide will help you navigate the options. We’ ll explain the pros and cons of each approach and provide a comprehensive guide to finding and managing builders. Join us to make informed decisions and choose the best path for your home project. Andy Stevens- Builder & Broadcaster
20 • homebuildingshow. co. uk