Budget for extras, pre-construction, site and access costs, not just the contract price.
List must-haves and nice-to-haves to guide inclusion choices.
Face living and entertaining areas north to suit the Queensland climate.
Starting your custom home journey can seem daunting and overly expensive at first glance, but with the right builder the process can be seamless and much less costly than you think. Over the years Ownit Homes has built a wealth of experience creating achievable custom residences, so here are our top tips for those considering their first custom home build.
Work with your bank or financial expert to determine how much you can comfortably afford. As well as the contract price, factor in extras like furnishings, whitegoods and decorative items, plus pre-construction, site and access costs. Have an expert assess your block and complete soil testing early for the most accurate picture. Common questions include whether you need to demolish an existing home, whether the block has good access for trucks and cranes, what lies beneath the surface, and how much slope the block has.
Choose your level of inclusions
The colours and finishes you choose bring your home to life. The right level of inclusions depends on your lifestyle, budget and how long you intend to live in the home. Make a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves to guide your decisions and compare inclusions between builders. Consider whether a full turnkey package, which finishes your home with flooring, air conditioning, driveways and turf, is right for you.
Consider your dream lifestyle
Think about how your new home will complement your lifestyle now and into the future. Do you need a guest room with ensuite, separate living areas, private study spaces, or a place to work from home? Sometimes it is the small things, like storage or how far you walk from the garage to the pantry with groceries, that matter most.
Create a scrapbook and consider aspect
Keeping a visual record of what you like, through magazine clippings, Pinterest boards or holiday photos, is the best way to communicate your vision to the designer. It is also highly recommended to select a block with the entertaining area facing north, which in the Queensland climate avoids the harsh east or west sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does demolition cost for a custom build?
A general range of $15,000 to $40,000 could apply to demolition. Ask about options to recycle materials or sell the home to a house remover to save money or even make some back.
Why does block slope matter?
As a rule of thumb, the more level the land, the more affordable it is to build on. Blocks with substantial fall can add cost and may limit the type of home a builder can construct.
How do I get started with Ownit Homes?
Call our team on (07) 3343 4244, visit a display centre in Hendra, Rochedale, Redland Bay or Springfield Rise, or send an enquiry through our contact page. We build across Greater Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
