Deciding what sites to take on

The decision to take on a specific site for self-build development is a delicate balance of vision, feasibility, community impact, and sustainability. At Livedin, our process ensures that every plot we engage with is set up for long-term success.

Vision Alignment

First and foremost, we look for sites that reflect our overarching mission. We believe that every self-build site should:

Offer meaningful opportunities for individuals to shape their living spaces
Contribute to local well-being by blending harmoniously with the existing community
Encourage innovative and eco-conscious building methods

Market and Community Potential

We study the local housing market and the level of community engagement to gauge the potential of a successful self-build project. Ideal sites often feature:

A need for diverse housing options not served by traditional developers
A community eager to welcome and integrate new projects
Adequate interest from local self-builders who are ready to step in

Planning Feasibility and Sustainability

We conduct thorough planning feasibility assessments to ensure the site is ready for the regulatory journey. This involves:

Reviewing planning and environmental constraints
Estimating infrastructure requirements such as utilities, roads, and drainage
Evaluating sustainability metrics, including the potential for solar gain, water management, and ecological preservation

Financial Viability

While our mission centres on accessibility, each project must be financially viable to ensure its success. We consider:

Development costs vs. potential returns
Potential funding and grant opportunities for community-driven or eco-friendly initiatives
Ability to provide fair purchase terms for self-builders

Community-Centred Approach