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Self Build Mortgages

Self Build Mortgages in Northern Ireland

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Self Build Mortgages Belfast

Last Updated: 5th September 2025

Have you ever dreamed of building your own home – designed exactly the way you want it, in the perfect location for your family? A self build mortgage can make that dream a reality.

Unlike a standard mortgage, where you receive the full amount upfront to buy a property, a self build mortgage releases funds in stages as your build progresses. This makes it possible to finance land purchase and construction step by step, keeping everything on track.

At AIMS NI, we’re experts in helping clients across Northern Ireland secure the right self build mortgage for their project. With independent, whole-of-market access, we compare lenders and guide you through every stage of the process – so you can focus on creating your forever home.

What Is a Self Build Mortgage?

A self build mortgage is designed for people who want to build their own home rather than buying an existing property. The key difference is how the funds are released:

  • With a standard mortgage, you get the full amount upfront to pay for a house purchase.
  • With a self build mortgage, money is released in stages, linked to the progress of your build.

 

This gives lenders confidence that the project is moving forward, while giving you access to the cash you need at the right time.

How Do Self Build Mortgages Work?

Self build mortgages are usually released in five or six stages, such as:

  • Land purchase – if you don’t already own the plot.
  • Foundations laid
  • Walls up to roof level
  • Roof completed
  • First fix / second fix (electrics, plumbing, plastering)
  • Completion of the build

At each stage, a surveyor checks progress before releasing funds. During the build, you usually make interest-only repayments, switching to a standard repayment mortgage once your home is complete.

Benefits of a Self Build Mortgage

There are many advantages to choosing a self build mortgage:

  • Design freedom – create a home tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
  • Potential cost savings – building can often be cheaper than buying a similar property.
  • Added value – once complete, your home may be worth significantly more than it cost to build.
  • Flexible funding – money released in stages to match your project’s progress.

 

Key Considerations for Self Build Mortgages

While self build mortgages open exciting opportunities, there are some important factors to consider:

  • Deposit requirements – lenders usually ask for 20–25% of the total build cost.
  • Strict lender criteria – detailed build plans, budgets, and planning permission are often required.
  • Timescales – building your own home takes longer than a standard house purchase.
  • Paperwork – more complex than a standard mortgage, requiring professional guidance.

 

At AIMS NI, we’ll help you prepare your application properly and give you the best chance of approval.

 

 

The Self Build Mortgage Process with AIMS NI

Here’s how we make the process smooth and simple:

  • Free, no-obligation consultation – talk to one of our self build specialists.
  • Financial & project review – we’ll check your deposit, budget, and build plans.
  • Lender search – access to a wide range of specialist lenders and products.
  • Application management – we deal with the paperwork and lender requirements.
  • Stage payment coordination – we’ll guide you through each release of funds.
  • Completion & transition – once your home is built, we’ll help you move onto a standard repayment mortgage.

 

With AIMS NI by your side, you’ll have expert support from blueprint to brickwork to move-in day.

Why Choose AIMS NI for Self Build Mortgage Advice?

Building your own home is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll make – so having the right mortgage advice is vital. Here’s why homeowners across Northern Ireland trust us:

  • Whole-of-market access – we search specialist self build lenders you won’t always find on the high street.
  • Independent advice – we’re not tied to one bank, so we’ll always recommend the best deal for you.
  • Award-winning service – helping clients in NI since 2003.
  • Local expertise – advisors based across Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.
  • Stress-free process – from paperwork to stage payments, we’ll handle the hard work for you.
AIMS - Self Build Mortgages Top Tip - Mortgages Brokers Belfast

Start Your Self Build Journey with AIMS NI

Building your own home is an exciting opportunity – but it comes with challenges. At AIMS NI, we’re here to make sure financing isn’t one of them. Our independent, whole-of-market advice gives you access to the best self build mortgage deals available in Northern Ireland.

Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation and take the first step towards building the home of your dreams.

Self Build Mortgages FAQs

How much deposit do I need for a self build mortgage?

Most lenders require at least 20–25% of the total build cost. Some specialist products may require more.

Can I get a self-build mortgage if I already own the land?

Yes. In fact, owning land can improve your chances of approval as it reduces risk for lenders.

How are funds released with a self build mortgage?

Funds are released in agreed stages as the build progresses, with a surveyor confirming completion of each stage.

Do I need planning permission before applying?

Yes, most lenders will require full planning permission and detailed costings before approving your application.

What happens once my home is complete?

Your self build mortgage usually switches to a standard repayment mortgage, with lower interest rates than during the build phase.

Can I use a self build mortgage for renovations or conversions?

Yes – some lenders offer specific self build or renovation mortgages for large-scale projects like barn conversions or major extensions.

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Disclaimer

A MORTGAGE IS A LOAN SECURED AGAINST YOUR PROPERTY. YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT.

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