While generic project management techniques apply to any type of project in any environment, for someone about to embark on building their dream home (or office in the garden) we strongly recommend reference to the guys at Property Development Made Easy.
They offer a collection of really useful PDF guidance sheets covering all aspects of the build from finding a suitable site, getting planning permissions, to building, and snagging, as well as some really straightforward project management tools and techniques.
To help with affordability they also offer email or phone support direct.