Self builders 'could steal a great property deal' in 2009

It has been forecast that 2009 will be the year to pick up a prime plot.

The worsening economic situation could see more people forced into selling their assets, which will provide a stream of "affordable" and "desirable" homes and plots in the UK, according to Rightmove.

In 2009, sales in the property market will be driven by a need to get cash quickly, it claims.

Miles Shipside, commercial director of Rightmove, says: "For those select buyers looking for a quality property and who are willing and able to proceed, 2009 is likely to be the year of the deal."

Mr Shipside suggests that desirable homes and plots will be available at "exceptionally attractive" prices.

An estimated 20,000 self builds are completed each year and doing so can save money in the long term.

By building their own home, Brits can cut out the developer's profit – which is typically between ten per cent and 30 per cent of the total cost, according to Self Build and Design.