Financing your
Custom or Self-Build Project

Financing a custom or self-build project can feel daunting, but choosing the right mortgage product makes all the difference. At Custom Build Homes, we work closely with BuildStore Mortgage Services to ensure buyers and developers have access to the most comprehensive and reliable financing options available in the UK.

Understanding Stage Release Mortgages
For custom and self-build projects, a stage release mortgage is the go-to solution, releasing funds in stages as the build progresses. Choosing the right type of stage release mortgage is critical, as it directly impacts cash flow and the smooth running of the build. Here’s an overview of the three main types:
 
Exclusive Access to Advance and Cost-Based Mortgages
Advance and cost-based mortgage products are the latest innovations in custom and self-build financing and are exclusively available through BuildStore or brokers who access these products and advice via BuildLoan., BuildStore’s service for intermediaries. They represent the future of stage release financing, offering unmatched flexibility and reliability.
1. Arrears Stage Release Mortgages

Arrears-based mortgages release funds only after each stage of the build is completed and inspected. While they are available, and often suit buyers who already own their plot at the point they need mortgage finance, they often require buyers to have significant cash deposits upfront to pre-fund costs, particularly for projects involving:

  • Off-site manufacturing, like timber-frame
  • Complex or bespoke designs

For many buyers, the financial strain of upfront funding makes Arrears-based mortgages less practical, especially for innovative or highly customised builds.

2. Advance Stage Release Mortgages
Advance mortgages provide funds at the start of each build stage, giving buyers the cash flow they need to cover material and labour costs without relying on personal savings. These products are a lifeline for buyers with limited upfront capital, ensuring their projects can progress smoothly.
3. Cost-Based Mortgages

Cost-based mortgages are the most buyer-friendly option available, eliminating the need for interim valuations during the build. Funds are released based on agreed costs at each stage of the build, offering a straightforward and predictable solution ideal for complex or high-value projects, or multi-unit developments where developers are building homes on a contract basis.

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The BuildStore Difference

Over 60% of the UK’s lending market for custom or self-build operates exclusively through BuildStore, making BuildStore the only company capable of guaranteeing that stage payments are made on time, every time.

Why BuildStore is the leader in custom and self-build financing

Innovative Products

BuildStore is the sole provider of Advance and Cost-based mortgages, designed to meet the modern buyer’s needs.

Unmatched Market Access

BuildStore has access to 100% of the lending market in the UK, with more than 70 specialist mortgage products available exclusively from BuildStore. This ensures buyers get the best finance advice, and access to the entire market to choose from.

Reliable Payments

Their enhanced products mean stage payments are guaranteed to align with project timelines, minimising delays and risks.

Multi-Unit Project Expertise

BuildStore is the only mortgage company in the UK equipped to provide financing for multi-unit self or custom-build developments, making them indispensable for developers.

A message to custom and self-build developers

 
If you’re a custom or self-build developer, ensuring your buyers have access to the right financing is critical to the success of your project. Developers with existing broker relationships should speak to BuildStore today to confirm that their brokers have access to BuildLoan and BuildStore’s unique products.
 
If your broker cannot access BuildLoan or BuildStore’s solutions, it’s time to rethink your partnership. Without these products, buyers are unlikely to secure the financing they need, reducing your chances of selling plots and doing a disservice to your customers.
 
By partnering directly with BuildStore, you can:
  • Secure site-wide pre-agreed mortgage supply for every buyer.
  • Provide the most buyer-friendly financing options on the market.
  • Ensure timely, reliable stage payments for smooth project delivery.

Speak with BuildStore today

BuildStore Mortgage Services provides unparalleled support to both buyers and developers. They ensure buyers have access to the best mortgage products, while developers benefit from enhanced sales success through reliable financing solutions.

Contact us today and we’ll make the introduction!