FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
When is the best time to contact a builder?
To take advantage of the best energy efficient principles you should contact us before you purchase your land. Then you can discuss the type of home you want and we can help with orientation to ensure optimal energy efficiency. If you’ve already bought your land, that’s fine too. Make an appointment with us and we can guide you through the steps for a seamless building journey.
What if I already have my plans drawn?
Call us for an initial meeting and if you like our building processes, we can help you work out the cost of your new home. (See our FAQ: How do I get a building Quote?)
What do I need to have ready to obtain a building quote?
We highly recommend you visit us before you reach the quoting stage so we can make sure you’ll be able to build within your budget, however if you think you have everything ready, here is a checklist that can help:
Completed building plans.
Final window and electrical schedules.
Energy report and BAL rating (small renovations may apply for exemption).
Soil report and subsequent engineered slab/footing design and engineering computations for any structural support beams (if required).
Septic system approvals (if required). Through the council health department.
A planning permit (if required). We can help you with this.
How long does it take to build?
Every build is different. A standard new home will take a minimum of five to six months. We ask our trades to allocate ample time to complete their works to a high standard. We do not rush to build our clients’ dream homes.
Larger homes or homes which have more involved building processes could take eight to twelve months. Renovations are completely dependent on the size and work involved. A simple room addition may take two months while a whole home re-model could take 12 months.
The most important thing we emphasise is that it must be done right, with no corners cut!
What do renovations cost?
Each renovation requires specific consideration. You can keep it simple by working to existing walls and structure or you can completely re-configure your home. In this case there is often considerable cost involved to ensure that load-bearing walls are either not compromised or are re-engineered to keep the home structurally sound.
A renovation will generally cost more per square than a new build as there is the cost to re-build but also the cost to demolish, secure, remove and dispose of the old.
Visiting us prior to meeting with the Building Designer will allow you to receive helpful advice on the most cost-effective ways to renovate.
Do I need to have my plans drawn before I come to see you?
Absolutely not. We prefer you come to us before your plans are drawn. This gives you an opportunity to discuss the best building concepts for your desired outcome, ensuring your plans fit your budget. If you’re unsure of where to start, we offer a service to help you prepare a design brief to present to your Building Designer. We find this is the best way to ensure your plans are drawn to meet your ideal budget.
How do I get a building quote? What’s involved?
Arrange an initial meeting with us and decide if we are the right builder for you. We’ll make sure we can meet all your needs, work with you as a team and fulfil your dreams. You’ve probably heard many building nightmare stories. We want to make sure that your building journey is a positive and memorable one.
If you would like us to prepare a price proposal for you, we arrange a selections meeting to discuss everything about your new home. Then we completely tailor your home price based on your selections. We offer a guaranteed price with no hidden extras at the end.
Finally, we present our building proposal to you and explain the inclusions.
What happens if I choose to build with you?
Get set for exciting times ahead. There are some formalities to take care of first, but then it is all systems go!
We take care of everything for you. We prepare a Master Builders contract, your building specifications document and obtain the necessary Domestic Building Certificate of Insurance. We are happy to explain each of these documents so that you completely understand how the building process works.
Next we apply for your building permit. Once your permit is issued, we can start building your dream.
What will my new home cost?
Every home is different. The design of your home along with the fixtures and finishes all impact the final price. Everything from the pitch and style of your roof, to the cabinetry you install impacts costs.
An initial discussion with us will help define where your budget will take you. We can advise the cost of various building styles before visiting the Building Designer. We recommend a minimum $20,000 per square of under roof including living, garage, verandas and alfresco.
Let us know what you think is important and we’ll help you tailor your home to your budget.
Are you more expensive than a project builder?
If a project builder priced your custom plans you would find their price to be very similar. Sometimes we are marginally dearer but this is because we insist that our trades don’t rush to complete their work. We insist on the correct materials and best installation methods for every home.
The upside is that in the future, your maintenance bills will be far less than a project-built home. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that you won’t need to spend big dollars on repairs and maintenance because your quality home was built with pride and expertise.