In the heart of Exmoor, Josh and Megan are in the process of building their own home. With invaluable support from Somerset Council, Exmoor Young Voices, and a self-build loan from Lendology, they hope their pioneering project will inspire others to create affordable homes on the moor.
Their story began with Exmoor Young Voices, a voluntary group of young people across Exmoor committed to tackling local challenges like housing, employment, and infrastructure. The group works to help young residents stay and thrive in the area they’ve long called home. Through Exmoor Young Voices, Josh and Megan discovered the possibility of affordable self-build homes in Exmoor National Park. With the group’s guidance and support from the National Park authorities, they successfully navigated the complexities of securing the necessary approvals on a small family-owned plot of land.
Now well underway with their self-build adventure, the couple is constructing a thermally-efficient home using the innovative Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) technique. Designed with care and consideration for Exmoor’s stunning natural landscape, the house balances practicality as a forever family home with a focus on efficiency, all while making the most of its surroundings.
“Building your own house is an exciting and rewarding journey, but it comes with many challenges, especially when it comes to financing. Our self-build loan from Lendology has significantly relieved the financial pressure and contributed greatly to our project’s success so far. The application process was incredibly straightforward, and we were supported every step of the way by Harriet, who was always available to answer our questions. What sets Lendology apart is the personalised experience they offer and their flexible repayment terms. We’ve already recommended Lendology to others interested in self-build projects and to friends looking for home improvement loans.”
Alongside their self-build loan, Josh and Megan will also receive a grant from Somerset Council, helping them take another step toward completing their family home.
As their home takes shape, Josh and Megan’s project serves as a testament to the transformative power of responsible borrowing and government grants. It demonstrates how careful planning and strategic financing, along with the support of local authorities, can turn dreams into reality.
About Exmoor Young Voices
Exmoor Young Voices is a charity led by young residents committed to creating opportunities for their peers to live and work in Exmoor. By addressing key challenges like housing, employment, and local infrastructure, EYV ensures young people can build fulfilling lives within their community. Through collaborations with local authorities and housing organisations, EYV supports initiatives such as self-build projects, equipping individuals with the resources and guidance they need. Recognised with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service 2024, their efforts continue to shape a brighter future for Exmoor’s young residents.
Watch the video below to hear Josh and Megan’s story in their own words.
We recommend that you conduct an independent retrofit assessment to establish whether any works that you may be planning to adapt your property are likely to be suitable for your property and goals.
Representative Example (4% fixed interest rate, Representative 4.2% APR).
Loans are subject to status and are typically protected by a Title Restriction.
Borrow £5,000 over 60 months, £92.08 monthly repayments. Total amount repayable = £5,544.96, including £20 fee for registering the Title Restriction against your property at the Land Registry. The £20.00 fee is only payable if a loan is agreed by Lendology and you decide to proceed with a loan. We do not charge interest on the fee. A Title Restriction means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid. This is a financial promotion approved by Lendology CIC. Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future.