KYLIE and Gareth Cranage expected to wait three years before they could put a deposit on their dream home.But after discovering the Group Self Build program, their dream didn't seem so far away."When we first heard about Group Self Build on the radio, we thought it was such a great idea," Mrs Cranage said."Many things attracted us to the scheme, such as the fact that you don't need a deposit and there are no repayments to be made during construction, which was very helpful seeing as we had no savings."Managed by the Department of Human Services, the program brings together 12 families who help build each other's houses in a co-operative effort.A short-term bridging loan is provided to pay for the land, building materials and establishment costs, but must be repaid when the house is completed.Participants work on areas including standing frames, windows, painting, fencing and landscaping while skilled work is undertaken by licensed trades.Group Self Build is currently seeking seven more couples to build their own, and other participants' homes under the supervised program. Twelve blocks of land in Miners Rest will be used for the project."You would find it hard to find a 15-square, four-bedroom energy efficient home with land for such a great price in such a great neighbourhood, as well as learning new building and management skills along the way," Mr Cranage said.Building advisor Ron Florance said the program saved participants a minimum of $50,000, with families working every weekend for 10 months."They get set up in teams and everyone helps one another," Mr Florance said."It's hard work, it's not easy, especially when you have to maintain a job during the week because you have to qualify for the finance."It promotes as a no-deposit scheme and at the end they have a fantastic house and it's great value for money."For more information, contact Gary Seymour on 1800 134 872 or Ron Florance on 0408 984 224.