Want to make your dream home a reality? Then this guide, designed for home buyers in Australia, will help you. Be aware of the challenges you will soon face and how to overcome them. Make wiser decisions moving forward.
Choosing the perfect house plan and building is a complex process, and in order to achieve your desired results in a residential property, careful strategising and planning are crucial before construction begins. Here are the three most important things you need to know and plan around:
1. The Laws for Building a House and Your Rights
There are laws and standards to follow when building a new house. Make sure everything you do is within your rights and are legal to avoid complications during the whole process. These laws apply to the new house itself, your builder or trade contractor, the garage or shed, fencing, pools, landscaping, and renovations or repairs.
Builders and Contractors
First, if your builder or trade contractor’s work costs more than $3,300, they must be licensed. Associated tradesmen, such as gasfitters and plumbers, must be licensed as well. For your information and peace of mind, you can search online to see if the people you are planning to hire have a license.
You will also have to sign a contract with your builder, which must include an estimate of when the building work will be completely done. To make sure things go smoothly and for your protection, talk to a lawyer for legal advice before signing anything. You have the right to acquire a copy of the contract as well. In the event that you want to withdraw from the contract, you need to let the builder know in writing and check if you have to pay a fee. If you are unsure about what your contract should include to protect you and your family, make sure you talk to an expert. Our friends at Titlexchange can provide you with an extremely competitive contract review.
House plans
Your builder or architect will handle the making of your desired house plans, which is part of the building contract. They also require a building certifier’s approval, and possibly council approval. To see if you need both for your new home house plans, check with your local council or with a building certifier. Ensure that all aspects involved are clear and within the law by discussing your plans with your builder or architect during the drawing and designing stage.
Sustainable housing laws
Australian building regulations enforce an eco-friendly home, one that isn’t just comfortable to live in, but also uses less energy and water, and helps reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Make sure that your house design utilises energy-efficient fixtures and more.
2. Fees and Your Budget
Getting realistic calculations is essential for a financially secure house building process. Get multiple quotes based on your house plans for comparison, and make sure that the same things are included. It would be wise to get a fixed price, because the items that aren’t fixed can change and become expensive in the future. Other costs in building a new home also include: soil and contour tests, site costs, flooring, landscaping, modifications and add-ons, and land registration. Once you know all the fees and costs, you can then prepare yourself financially for all the fees, costs, and expenses that come with home building. If you would like to compare home loan options you can talk to uno Home Loans who are able to allow you compare up to 25 different loan options to find one that will work for you.
3. The Neighbourhood and Your Long-Term Goals
Assess the amenities and opportunities around your chosen location. After all, you’ll be living in this place for many years to come, and being comfortable in your new home also means that the neighbourhood suits your lifestyle and future goals, such as having a family or developing your career. Do your research and see if you like the transportation, education, shopping district, jobs available, recreation and entertainment facilities, and local services for your contentment and satisfaction.
iBuildNew is here to help you find the right h0use plans and select the most suitable builder fit for new home building budget, goals, and needs. For personal & expert advice, make sure you call one of our consultants on 1800 184 284 or book a call online.
Let us do the legwork for you.
- We’ll ask the right questions to better understand your needs
- We’ll create a recommended shortlist ideally matched to you
- We’ll answer specific questions or concerns related to home building, land purchasing or financing
1800 184 284
