The Seminar Programme

Pick up some great tips and useful information for your self-build, renovation and home improvement projects at the North of England's dedicated self build and renovation event.

The 2011 Seminar Programme covered all aspects of self-build and renovation, presented in 8 daily sessions. Take a look at the timetable below to get an idea of what will be at the show in 2012.


There will be a session suitable, relevant - and unmissable - for everyone. With your ticket, you can attend for free. Seats cannot be reserved and are based on a first come first served basis. These seminars are always very popular, so make sure you arrive early to avoid disappointment!

10.45-11.15
Plotfinding: How to find and assess building plots and renovation opportunities
Homebuilding & Renovating magazine’s plotfinding expert David Snell explains how to find the right piece of land or renovation opportunity for your project, and how to assess its development potential and value
David Snell, Author and H&R Magazine Contributing Editor

11.20-11.50
Planning permission: A beginner’s guide
An introduction to the planning process to help you steer you way to approval for your project. Outline vs. full permission, fees, tactics, when to appeal and more
Sally Tagg, H&R Magazine Planning Expert

12.00-12.30
Build costs:  How to raise the funds and budget for your self-build
How to estimate build costs, work out what you can afford to build, and assess the financial feasibility of your self-build project, plus an update on self-build mortgages
Mark Brinkley, Author and H&R Magazine Building Expert

12.45-13.15
Extension design ideas: The best ways to add space and value to your home
A guide to designing the extra space you need in the most cost effective and space efficient way, from remodelling and extending to loft and garage conversions, using real examples of successful extension and remodelling projects
Michael Holmes, Editor-in-Chief, Real Homes Magazine

13.30-14.00
Energy Efficiency: The ten best eco home  investments you can make. How to save maximum money whilst saving the planet!
Cut through the hype and discover which improvements you  really need to prioritise to make your home greener and more energy efficient.   The pros and cons of the most popular eco features from upgrading  insulation to smart metering, eco heating, solar panels, wind turbines and  more.
Tim Pullen, H&R Magazine Eco Expert

14.15-14.45
Renovation and extension: The Ten Golden Rules for A Successful Project
Experienced renovator Michael Holmes gives his ten golden rules for extenders and renovators, from how to assess your property’s potential to making the most of design opportunities, and how to avoid the common pitfalls
Michael Holmes, Editor-in-Chief, Real Homes Magazine

15.00-15.30
How to heat your home: A guide to choosing the right system  for your home
Learn how to establish which heating  system is best for  your home based on your priorities and budget, whether its  finding the  lowest installation cost, the cheapest ongoing running cost, the  lowest  CO2 output, the most space efficient or the best suited to your house   type of design.
Tim Pullen, H&R Magazine Eco Expert

15.45-16.15
Project management: How to complete your project on time and on budget
Should you use a builder, or manage your homebuilding project yourself as a DIY contractor using individual tradesmen?  Discover the pros and cons, potential cost savings, how to find reliable people to work for you and what is really required in terms of your time and skills for both self-builders and renovators
David Snell, Author and H&R Magazine Contributing Editor