Over 40,000 self builds in the last year, statistics show

Figures from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) have shown that anyone considering a self build is in good company.

Statistics from the FMB for 2007 reveal that last year planning permission was given for 43,761 self build projects, Motley Fool reports.

In addition to this, renovators were also busy, with 295,074 extensions and 39,462 loft conversions.

Such figures reveal that self build and renovation are a popular way of improving people's housing situation for many.

Fool.co.uk advised that now could be a particularly good time to make home improvements, as these could help raise the value of a home at a time when house prices are heading in the opposite direction.

In related news, self build specialist firm Buildloan and lender the Mortgage Business have announced the launch of a new mortgage aimed specifically at funding self build projects, the Mortgage Warehouse reports.