Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Self Builders Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
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| Turning an old barn into my dream home | 09 Apr 2026 | 00:45:42 | |
In this episode of the Self Builders podcast, host Mike Pawley speaks with Charles, a client of Mayflower Mortgage, who undertook a self-build project to convert an old barn. Charles shares his journey of finding the perfect property, navigating planning permissions, and the importance of good financing. He discusses the challenges encountered during construction, including unexpected costs and structural issues, while emphasising the need for flexible budgeting. The conversation also highlights the significance of good design, water management, and the emotional highs and lows of self-building. Charles concludes with valuable tips for aspiring self-builders. We discuss:
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| Challenges with the self-build process | 08 Apr 2026 | 00:30:00 | |
In this episode of the Self Builders podcast, host Mike Paulie speaks with Paul Grice, a self-build mortgage client, about his journey through the self-build process. Paul shares insights on choosing the right property, navigating planning permissions, the importance of hiring a good architect, and finding the right builder. He discusses the challenges faced during the build, including unexpected costs and delays, and emphasises the value of open book contracts for transparency. The conversation concludes with Paul's top tips for prospective self-builders, highlighting the importance of collaboration and careful planning. | |||
| How Adam transformed an existing outbuilding | 31 Mar 2026 | 00:26:16 | |
In this episode of the Self-Builders Podcast, host Sam Taylor speaks with Adam, who shares the story of his first self-build project in North Hampshire. Adam explains how he and his family found their plot, how an existing outbuilding is being transformed into a three-bed family home, and the realities of managing a self-build while living nearby in temporary accommodation. Adam walks through the key stages of the project so far — from planning permission and design decisions through to managing builders, navigating unexpected delays, and keeping control of the budget. He also shares honest reflections on the challenges that come with self-building and what he wishes he had known before starting. We discuss the importance of: • Finding the right plot and spotting opportunity 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| Laurences' self build journey | 31 Mar 2026 | 00:20:16 | |
Our latest self-build client to share their journey is Laurence, who is here to chat about the inspiration behind their self-build, and exactly how their project went. Covering everything from navigating conservation conditions, construction and material choices, involvement in the project, project timeline and challenges, resilience and problem-solving in building, costing and budgeting, favourite features of the home, architectural influence and technical challenges, to advice for other self-builders. This is a jam packed episode you won't want to miss. Chapters
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| The challenges of a barn conversion | 31 Mar 2026 | 00:44:53 | |
This week we welcomed one of our clients, Charles, who took on an ambitious barn conversion project with the support of Mayflower Mortgage! Together we chat about the challenges and considerations involved in a barn conversion project, from finding the ideal property to navigating planning, financing, and unforeseen construction challenges. Charles also emphasises the importance of professional consultation and the complexities of drainage and waterproofing in such projects. The conversation covers the topics of project budgeting, cost management, adapting to changes, construction budget, building for lifestyle, reflections on the building process, financial protection, payment terms, and supplier selection and considerations. Highlighting the importance of budget flexibility and effective cost management throughout the construction process. Chapters
📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| Working full-time whilst navigating self-building | 07 Apr 2026 | 00:29:09 | |
In this episode of the Self Builders podcast, host Mike Pawley speaks with Helen and Simon, who share their experiences and insights from their self-build journey. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of finding the right plot, navigating planning permissions, managing the construction process, and the importance of being hands-on throughout the project. The conversation also highlights key tips for future self-builders, emphasising the need for meticulous planning and decision-making. | |||
| Debunking myths about timber frames | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:42:58 | |
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, host Mike Pawley engages with Sarah Mattheson from Fleming Homes and Joe Higginson from Hugo Homes to explore the world of custom building and timber frame construction. They discuss the history and values of their respective companies, the benefits of timber frame homes, and the challenges faced by self-builders. The conversation also delves into the importance of collaboration between builders and suppliers, the advantages of a free design service, and the innovative Plot Collective initiative to make land more accessible to aspiring homeowners. 📘 Download our FREE Self-Build Resources: https://www.mayflowermortgage.co.uk/free-self-build-resources | |||
| Building a 6,000 st ft home from scratch | 05 Apr 2026 | 00:42:33 | |
Building your own home sounds like the dream. But what actually happens once you buy the plot and start the build? In this episode of The Self Builders Podcast, we speak with Sanjay, who shares the story behind building his 6,000 sq ft self-build home near Woburn, from spotting the perfect plot and paying over the guide price to managing trades, materials, and planning changes along the way. Sanjay talks openly about the reality of the process: There are also some brilliant practical takeaways for anyone considering a self-build, including how to work with planning officers, why relationships with suppliers matter, and why having the right people around you makes all the difference. If you're planning a self-build or renovation project, this conversation is packed with real-world insight. Listen now and learn from someone who has been through the entire journey. 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| 5 steps to avoid when self-building... by a self builder! | 04 Apr 2026 | 00:27:17 | |
In this episode of the Self-Builders podcast, host Sam Taylor and Mike Pawley welcome Andy Howes, who shares his journey of building his dream home. Andy discusses the challenges and decisions he faced, from choosing the right construction method to navigating the mortgage process and making design choices. He emphasizes the importance of understanding ground conditions, managing the construction process, and the value of having experienced guidance. As he nears completion of his project, Andy offers valuable tips for aspiring self-builders, highlighting the significance of planning and project management.
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| Designing a custom build home that fits your lifestyle | 03 Apr 2026 | 00:38:23 | |
In this episode of the Self Builders podcast, host Mike Pawley discusses the concept of custom-built homes with guests Janet Nuttall and Joe Higginson. | |||
| What are lenders looking for? | 02 Apr 2026 | 00:28:20 | |
In this episode of the Self-Builders Podcast, hosts Sam Taylor and Mike Pawley explain what lenders are really looking for when you apply for a self-build mortgage. If you’re planning a project and want to avoid delays or rejected applications, this episode breaks down the key documents and preparation lenders expect before they approve funding. Sam and Mike walk through the most common issues lenders see in self-build applications and share practical advice on how to organise your documents, structure your finances, and present your case clearly to underwriters. We discuss the importance of: • Proof of deposit and where the funds have come from 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| Secrets of self-building and construction | 01 Apr 2026 | 00:35:46 | |
In this episode of the Self Builders Podcast, host Mike Pawley speaks with Gavin Wilkes from Dynamic Build Group about Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and its growing relevance in the self-building sector. They discuss the various services offered by Dynamic Build Group, including education and training for clients new to MMC, the benefits of using MMC for self-build projects, and common myths surrounding the construction method. Gavin shares insights on navigating the self-build process, the importance of project management, and tips for selecting the right contractor. The conversation highlights the advantages of MMC, including speed of build, energy efficiency, and adaptability, while also addressing misconceptions that may deter potential self-builders.
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| Matthew went from a renovation to a self-build | 01 Apr 2026 | 00:34:00 | |
In this episode of the Self-Builders Podcast, host Sam Taylor speaks with Matthew Jones, who shares the story of building his own family home after nearly two decades working in the construction industry. Matt explains how years of experience in building projects led him to take on his own self-build, and what it was really like managing the process while balancing work, family life, and the realities of construction. Matt talks through the full journey, from buying a plot of land and waiting for infrastructure and planning approvals, through to managing trades, controlling the budget, and making practical design decisions for a family home. He also reflects on the challenges of building during the COVID period, where material prices and delays added extra pressure to the project. We discuss the importance of: • Planning your self-build carefully before starting 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| Renovating a 1960's bungalow | 04 May 2026 | 00:31:01 | |
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 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: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| Building my own home with almost no contractors | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:28:11 | |
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 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: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| Renovating AND self-building in one go. | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:44:52 | |
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: 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: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| Building my dream home in 11 months | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:24:19 | |
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.
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| Two self-builds in four years!? | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:33:54 | |
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:
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. | |||
| Planning loopholes self-builders may not know about | 25 May 2026 | 00:37:44 | |
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:
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. | |||
| Keir's cottage renovation | 11 May 2026 | 00:20:44 | |
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
Chapters
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: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| From farmland to a family home | 18 May 2026 | 00:28:33 | |
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:
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. | |||
| How Custom-Build really works | 08 Jun 2026 | 00:28:51 | |
"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:
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. | |||
| Why Passivhaus is the future | 29 Jun 2026 | 00:26:48 | |
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 Michael shares a powerful perspective throughout this episode: The future of construction isn’t just about better products. 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: 📞 Book a call with Mayflower Mortgage here: 📘 Download our 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. | |||
| Two self-builds later... here's what I'd do differently | 22 Jun 2026 | 00:26:06 | |
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 Andy’s biggest takeaway? 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. | |||
| The Smartest Eco Home Investment | 15 Jun 2026 | 00:32:55 | |
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:
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. | |||
| Self-build without the stress? | 06 Jul 2026 | 00:41:45 | |
For many people, self-build is exciting in theory. But in reality, managing planning, utilities, contractors, budgets and timelines can feel overwhelming. | |||
| We lived in a caravan to build our dream home | 13 Jul 2026 | 00:26:56 | |
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 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: 📘 Download our 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. | |||