THERE has been a 40 per cent increase in the number of people building their own homes, over the past four years, according to Countrywide Surveyors. It says people can save 18 per cent of the cost of a new home by building themselves. In some areas this increases to 40 per cent.

Currently 20,000 self-build projects are started annually, accounting for one in eight of all new homes.

Remortgaging has hit record levels, accounting for 43 per cent of all home loans, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders.

Director General Michael Coogan said: “It seems highly likely that most people who are re-mortgaging may also be releasing equity. This situation is unlikely to resolve until house price inflation begins to slow down."

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THE Financial Services Authority has launched an on-line service to help people shop around for mortgages.The new site, at www.fsa.gov.uk/tables/, compares nearly 1,300 mortgages.

Those who log on can compare interest rates, any restrictions such as early repayment charges, fees and incentives, flexibility and linkage to current accounts.

Beverley Brewste,r of the FSA, said: “Unlike other websites, these tables are not trying to sell you a mortgage. They’re intended to help you shop around and make a shortlist of the best-value deals.”

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CREST Nicholson is celebrating a “tremendous” response to its Lyons Wharf development in Tonbridge.

The site, which comprises luxury apartments, townhouses and penthouses, is nearing completion.

The agent, RPC Land and New Homes, is now able to offer only three, two-bedroom apartments for sale. Prices range from £199,950 to £239,950. Phone 01622 691911 or 01732 363633.

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LINDEN Homes’ new apartments in Tunbridge Wells are proving popular with investors and young professionals, says Iain Berry, of Connells.

“Half of the homes currently sold at Knightsbridge Court in Upper Grosvenor Road have been snapped up by people buying them to let and we have also sold several to doctors working at the nearby hospital,” he said.

The apartments are convenient for commuters. High Brooms station is a short walk away, while junction five of the M25 is about 15 miles distant. Prices start at £175,000. Connells is on 01892 547966.

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ORCHARD Mews, in Rainham, is a development of only six homes.

The townhouses include an entrance hall, cloakroom, fitted kitchen, living room with patio doors to garden, two bedrooms and bathroom on the first floor with master bedroom and bathroom on the second floor.

There is parking to the front and the properties come complete with carpets. Prices start at £189,950. Phone RPC Land & New Homes on 01322 228891.