Start with the basics
Design
Design is a great place to start. Think about what you need now and in the future. Size, layout and functionality all play a role in shaping your home and will help guide your decision between a house-and-land package, a project home or a custom design.
Each option comes with different costs, so having a clear budget from the outset is key.
Land
If you’re not building on your existing block, your land choice is just as important as your design. Make sure the two work together.
Trying to adjust your plans later to suit the land can be costly, so it’s worth organising a site inspection before committing to both your block and your design.
Choosing a builder
Choosing the right builder is key to bringing your project to life, but it’s not something you have to navigate on your own. If you’re going with a house-and-land package, your developer may recommend a selection of builders. For custom builds, consider recommendations from friends or reach out to organisations like the Master Builders Association, and compare quotes from local builders.
Before making a decision, take the time to gather as much information as possible. You should be able to request plans and costings for each aspect of the build and an accurate completion timeline.
Before signing anything, it’s a good idea to have a solicitor or conveyancer review the key documents, including the plans agreement, home indemnity insurance, building contract and any variation agreements.
Getting a home loan
The two most important factors in staying on top of your build finances are understanding the full cost and having your loan approved and ready before construction begins.
Knowing the cost
Start by calculating how much deposit you’ll need, and speak with your solicitor or conveyancer about how payments will be structured throughout the build.
If you’d prefer more control, you might choose to make progress payments – only paying once each stage of the build is completed and inspected.
Alternatively, if you’d rather pay in one lump sum after construction, ask about a ‘price on completion’ option during your initial quote process.
Getting your home loan approved
Speak to your bank sooner rather than later and keep them updated on any deadlines in place during your build process. When applying for a home loan, be sure to take into account costs like stamp duty or legal fees. If you’re building, you may also want to explore a construction loan, which is designed to release funds in stages as your build progresses.
Contracts and cover
Signing contracts
If you’ve agreed on costs, take the time to go over your contract with your solicitor or conveyancer. Don’t be afraid to ask questions as making changes after signing can be costly. If you're using a construction loan, make sure the contract aligns with your lender’s requirements, as this can affect how and when funds are released.
Local knowledge
Get in touch with your council and make sure your contract complies with local laws and requirements. Ensure your builder is responsible for securing the required licences and permits.
Insurance
Before construction gets underway, make sure your insurance is sorted to cover your land, your build and any visitors on site.
Build and handover
The build is where it all starts to come together.
Your builder will usually invite you to a pre-build meeting, but staying involved along the way helps keep everything running smoothly. Regular check-ins mean you can make decisions on design and budget as they come.
If you need an extra set of eyes, you can always bring in an independent building consultant to help keep things on track.
Once construction is complete, you’ll move into handover. This is when you collect your keys, finalise any remaining payments, and receive important documents like warranties.
Before moving in, make sure you’ve received written confirmation from your builder that everything is ready to go.
Then all that’s left to do is move in and make it yours.