I
What does Brock Hatherton actually do?
We are an end-to-end self-build consultancy. That means we work with clients across the full arc of a project - from finding the right plot of land to the administration of construction and finishes through to completion. Our role is to bring the discipline of a property developer to both your decision-making, budget control and broader project operations.
II
Do I need a plot before contacting you?
Not at all. We work with clients at every stage, including those who have not yet started looking for land. In fact, many of our most successful engagements begin before a plot has been identified - we can help you identify which opportunities to pursue in light of your available capital, maximum mortgage, and the type and size of dwelling you'd like to live in.
III
How much does Brock Hatherton cost?
Our fees depend on the scope of the engagement and the scale of the project, and are agreed at the outset before any work begins. We do not work on percentage commissions tied to plot or build value, which we believe creates conflicts of interest. We are happy to discuss fees openly in the first conversation, which is free and without obligation.
IV
Which areas around the UK do you cover?
We are based in Henley-on-Thames and primarily advise on self-builds across the Thames Valley, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and the Home Counties. For projects elsewhere in the UK, we are happy to discuss whether an engagement makes sense given the geography and the nature of the input you require.
"We work with clients at every stage, including those who have not yet started looking for land."
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V
How long does a self-build typically take?
From acquiring land to moving in, a typical self-build takes between 12 and 24 months depending on a variety of factors. If planning permission already exists on the site you like, the timeline is on the lower end of this window, but will be longer if planning permission is required before you buy the land. The construction itself will normally take 10 to 14 months for a single home depending on its size, although site-specific factors - such as planning complexity, ground conditions, or supply chains - can extend any of these, which is why it is useful to engage advice early to ensure a realistic outlook on timelines (and time-related costs).
VI
Can I get a self-build mortgage?
Self-build lending has become substantially more accessible in recent years. Specialist lenders now advance up to 95% of land costs and up to 95% of build costs, meaning the route is open to anyone with a deposit and a reliable income, rather than being reserved for the cash-rich as it once was. We can discuss the lending landscape in detail in our first conversation, and refer you to specialist brokers if helpful.
VII
What if I am not sure self-build is right for me?
The first conversation is exactly the place to explore that. We would rather help you decide that self-build is not the right answer than encourage an engagement that would not suit you. If you would like more information before getting in touch, our Is This Right For Me? page is written for exactly this purpose.
VIII
Is Brock Hatherton a law firm?
No. Brock Hatherton Limited is an independent consultancy providing advisory services on land and self-build matters. It is not a firm of solicitors and is not authorised or regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Our founder, Sebastian Brock, is a fully qualified practising solicitor bound by the SRA Code of Conduct, and provides the strategic legal counsel that informs segments of our advisory work. Where reserved legal services are required (such as conveyancing), we refer clients to regulated firms with whom we work closely.
