HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO BUILD A HOME?
If you’re worried the cost of your build will blow out, you’re not alone! The risk of costs creeping up is a concern for most who plan to build.
Being informed will keep costs at bay, and beats worry any day.
Here’s what to look out for:
Site preparation costs:
Survey re-pegging, clearing and levelling the land before laying down the slab is a key first step in the building process.
Costs start to add up if the soil type is troublesome, if rock, trees and stumps are where the foundation needs to be, or if a site is fire prone, flood prone – or there’s asbestos on the premises.
Size of home:
Remember, the more square metres you have, the more this will affect the cost with additional materials and labour.
Multi-level home, or non-standard shape:
If your home has multiple levels, it means more construction work – and higher building costs. And, the more custom you make the shape of your home the more corners it will have, adding extra dollars too.
Note: Make sure to deal with a specialist single or multi-level home builder.
Fixtures and finishes:
Be mindful that finishes like granite countertops or non-standard floor tiles will attract premium pricing. A good builder will be able to suggest affordable alternatives that work for the look you’re after, so you don’t blow your budget through the roof!
Potential added-cost checklist to ask your builder about:
- Wall tiles
- Wardrobe Fit-out
- Tile selection
- Garden taps
- Landscaping
- Extra power points
- Security dooors/windows
- Ceiling height
- Driveway
- Door hardware
- Lighting
- Appliances
- Retaining walls
- Plants
- Insulation (check rating)
- Fencing
- Portico elevation
- Treated roof timbers
- Storage cabinetry
- Carpet selection
- Hot water system
- Decking
- Approvals & planning
- Fly screens
- Custom design changes
- Outdoor kitchen
- Installation of soakwells
Now, you might plan to be somewhat secretive with your builder about what your true budget is. Of course, you’re worrying the builder will rip you off. The trouble with this is, by not being honest you’re likely to sabotage yourself.
A good builder will allocate your budget strategically to maximise value for you. If a limited budget is a problem, your choices will be revised and prioritised accordingly.
