“New home sales in the month of April increased by 4.9 per cent despite rising interest rates and domestic and global uncertainty,” stated HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon.

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Confidence in new housing market remains

“New home sales in the month of April increased by 4.9 per cent despite rising interest rates and domestic and global uncertainty,” stated HIA Chief Economist Tim Reardon. The HIA New Home Sales report is a monthly survey of the largest volume home builders in the five largest states and is a leading indicator of future detached home construction. “This is a solid result which sees sales in the three months to April 4.6 per cent higher compared to the previous quarterly period,” added Mr Reardon. “This outcome likely reflects the momentum carried over from late last year prior to recent rate increases, alongside strong growth in established house prices. “Ongoing housing supply shortages have driven dwelling price growth in some markets and improved the feasibility of new home building. “More broadly, demand for housing remains strong, underpinned by structural drivers. “Strong population growth and low unemployment continue to sustain demand even in a higher interest rate environment. “These fundamentals suggest that, while interest rates are an important factor, they will not materially alter the underlying need for new homes.“However, the capacity to respond to this demand remains constrained. Labour shortages and elevated, rising construction costs are expected to persist through 2026, while access to shovel-ready land continues to limit the number of homes that can be delivered.“The inability to unlock more shovel-ready land will continue to place upwards pressure on prices and limit the pace at which supply can increase.“Proposed changes to capital gains tax and negative gearing in the Federal Budget are likely to weigh on investor participation. Given investors account for a significant share of new home building, any pullback could see even greater constraints on housing supply moving forward.“Emerging domestic and global uncertainty will pose risks to new home building, with the coming months providing clearer evidence of how sensitive demand is to the current environment.” concluded Mr Reardon.By state, Victoria recorded a monthly increase of 20.9 per cent, followed by South Australia (+11.5 per cent). Declines were observed in Queensland (-14.9 per cent), New South Wales (-3.1 per cent) and Western Australia (-1.0 per cent).

Davidson Building Group, a family-owned builder with over 50 years of experience, continues to set the benchmark for custom home construction in Melbourne's eastern and southeastern suburbs.

Davidson Building Group

Davidson Building Group, VIC

Davidson Building Group: Homes That Define Modern Living

Davidson Building Group, a family-owned builder with over 50 years of experience, continues to set the benchmark for custom home construction in Melbourne’s eastern and southeastern suburbs.Their latest projects— Palm Springs, The Kilkieran and Garnett Project show Davidson Building Group’s focus on custom design, quality workmanship, and creating homes that truly suit their clients’ needs.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=10 home_builder_image_fid=6426]<h2>Palm Springs: Mid-Century Coastal Elegance</h2>The Palm Springs project captures the relaxed sophistication of resort living, reimagined for the Melbourne context.With a distinctive architectural language influenced by Palm Springs modernism, this home offers a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle and exceptional design execution.Project Features:<ul><li>Bold Architectural Statement: Clean horizontal lines, flat rooflines, stone and timber cladding, and breezy open-air design reflect timeless modernist elegance.</li><li>Resort-Style Flow: Expansive sliding doors open to lush landscaping, sun-filled patios, and serene balconies designed for year-round enjoyment.</li><li>Elegant Interiors: Neutral tones, natural materials, and sculptural lighting create a calming and luxurious internal environment.</li><li>Smart &amp; Sustainable: Energy efficiency, high-spec insulation, and smart technology integration ensure future-ready comfort.</li><li>Palm Springs is a masterclass in design-led building — a statement home that embodies lifestyle, climate, and individuality.</li></ul>[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=10 home_builder_image_fid=6429]<h2>The Kilkieran: Sophisticated Family Living</h2>The Kilkieran is a testament to Davidson Building Group’s expertise in executing architecturally designed homes. This double-storey residence was envisioned as a sophisticated, spacious, and practical family home.Key features of the Kilkieran include:<ul><li>Contemporary Design: A modern aesthetic that blends seamlessly with the established neighbourhood.</li><li>Functional Layout: Thoughtfully designed spaces that cater to family living and entertaining.</li><li>Quality Finishes: High-end materials and finishes that enhance the home's elegance.</li><li>This project highlights Davidson Building Group’s skill in turning architectural plans into reality, while staying true to their commitment to quality and fine detail.</li></ul>[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=10 home_builder_image_fid=6432]<h2>Garnett Project: A Personal Sanctuary</h2>The Garnett Project showcases Davidson Building Group’s dedication to creating homes that reflect their clients' personal aspirations.The client sought a sanctuary—a tranquil space for relaxation that could also accommodate future family needs and social gatherings. Davidson Building Group delivered a custom home that balances serenity with functionality.Highlights of the Garnett Project:<ul><li>Personalised Design: Tailored to the client's lifestyle, ensuring ease of access to important spaces.</li><li>Versatile Spaces: Areas designed for both quietude and lively entertaining.</li><li>Future-Ready: Flexible design elements that can adapt to the evolving needs of a growing family.</li></ul>This project reflects Davidson Building Group’s approach to truly custom builds – creating homes that are as individual as the people who live in them.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=10 home_builder_image_fid=6431]<h2>About Davidson Building Group</h2>Founded in 1972 by Graeme and Bron Davidson, Davidson Building Group has built a reputation for excellence in residential construction. Their approach is characterised by:<ul><li>Client-Centric Service: Collaborating closely with clients to bring their visions to life.</li><li>Experienced Team: A dedicated team of professionals committed to quality and innovation.</li><li>Comprehensive Services: Offering design and build solutions, including knockdown rebuilds, extensions, and townhouse developments</li></ul>[smartcode_home_builder_cta:default home_builder_id=10]

Below are five designs that sit at the wider end of the Freedom range, each showing what more home for less can look like in practice.

Freedom by Metricon

Freedom by Metricon, VIC

Five Freedom by Metricon designs for buyers who need the most from their block

Block width is one of the more practical filters when comparing house designs. It directly shapes how living zones are arranged, how much separation you get between spaces, and whether outdoor areas feel usable or leftover.Freedom by Metricon is Metricon's value-focused range, designed around delivering larger, more usable homes through considered design at a lower price point. The range currently spans 40 designs available to build across the state.Below are five designs that sit at the wider end of the Freedom range, each showing what more home for less can look like in practice.<h2>Amira 22</h2>12.5m minimum block widthCompact footprint with flexible internal zoningThe Amira 22 shows how the Freedom range approaches smaller footprints without reducing functionality.At just under 22 squares, the four-bedroom layout features a centrally positioned living zone anchored by a kitchen with walk-in pantry, complemented by an additional leisure area for added household flexibility. The main bedroom is located at the front, with secondary bedrooms grouped toward the rear, creating a clear separation between private and shared areas.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=18 home_design_image_fid=12546]Elm facade on the AmiraA range of floorplan options, including converting the study into a butler’s pantry or additional living space, allows buyers to adjust the layout depending on priorities around zoning for a growing family, storage or entertaining.Recognised as the 2024 HIA “Best Volume Builder Display Home”, the Amira reflects how compact designs can still deliver a considered level of inclusions.Best suited for buyers working with narrower 12.5m blocks who still want four bedrooms and some flexibility in how internal spaces are configured.<h2>Santorini 29</h2>16m minimum block widthExpansive living tailored to the growing householdRecognised as an award-winning design, the Santorini reflects how efficient planning and considered inclusions can resonate with both buyers and industry bodies.At just under 30 squares, the four-bedroom layout delivers spacious open plan dining and family areas designed to seamlessly integrate indoor-outdoor living.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=18 home_design_image_fid=12562]Summit facade on the SantoriniThe centrally positioned kitchen, complete with a walk-in pantry, anchors the home and connects directly to the dining and family zones, reinforcing a single, highly functional living core.The main bedroom is placed at the front of the home, separating it from the secondary bedrooms, while a range of outdoor room options allows buyers to extend the living area depending on block depth and budget.Rather than increasing overall footprint, the Santorini focuses on retaining key features, like a study, multiple living zones, and indoor-outdoor connection, within a more controlled build size.A compact total footprint with a 16m minimum width. Suited to buyers on standard suburban blocks who want a functional single-level layout without committing to a larger build.<h2>Arcadia 24</h2>12.5m minimum block widthHigh bedroom count within a single-storey layoutThe Arcadia 24 pushes density further, delivering five bedrooms within a single-storey footprint.At 24 squares, the design is structured around an open-plan living and dining zone that connects directly to an outdoor room, while the main bedroom remains positioned at the front with its own ensuite and walk-in robe. The fifth bedroom can be reconfigured into a sitting room, study, or expanded living area, depending on household needs.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=18 home_design_image_fid=866]Yale facade on the ArcadiaThis approach allows the home to shift between accommodating larger families and providing additional shared space, without changing the overall footprint.For larger households or buyers prioritising bedroom count, particularly on narrower lots where double-storey isn’t preferred.<h2>Riva 35</h2>12.5m minimum block widthDouble-storey scale with extensive internal zoningThe Riva 35 delivers one of the largest footprints available on a 12.5m block, using a double-storey layout to maximise internal space.At over 34 squares, the design includes three separate living areas, a study, and an upstairs leisure zone. The main bedroom occupies a significant portion of the first floor, with additional bedrooms and shared spaces arranged to support larger or multi-generational households.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=18 home_design_image_fid=12570]Yale facade on the RivaThe ground floor centres on an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area that extends to an outdoor room, while the entry introduces a sense of scale through an open void and optional front sitting or study space.Buyers on narrower blocks who still want a high number of living zones and separation between family members without moving to a wider frontage.<h2>Glendale 39</h2>14m minimum block widthExpanded double-storey layout with additional flexibilityThe Glendale 39 builds on the standard design by extending the overall footprint to just under 39 squares, offering additional flexibility for larger households.The core structure remains, multiple living zones across two levels, including a front sitting room, separate study, and an upstairs leisure area, but the increased size allows for further configuration through design options such as a fifth bedroom, butler’s pantry, and expanded outdoor living.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=18 home_design_image_fid=9169]Nordic facade as displayed on the GlendaleThe layout maintains a clear distinction between shared and private spaces, with the ground floor focused on open-plan living and entertaining, while the upper level accommodates bedrooms and retreat areas.The largest design in this list on one of the narrower minimum widths. The volume of included rooms and design option depth suits buyers who want to configure a home to a specific household profile without starting from a custom build.<h2>Room to breathe and grow</h2>Filtering by block width gets you to a shorter list. The next step is understanding how each design uses that width, whether the floor area is prioritised toward living zones, bedrooms, or garage space. The number of squares and the configuration matter as much as whether the design fits the block at all.For Victorian buyers navigating rising land and construction costs, the comparison isn’t just price, it’s how much of the home is usable day to day.

As Melbourne's South East continues to flourish, property investors and homeowners are increasingly turning to dual occupancy developments to maximize land value and rental returns. 

Aspire Designer Homes

Aspire Designer Homes, VIC

TownLiving by Metricon

TownLiving by Metricon, VIC

SOHO Living

SOHO Living, VIC

Ancorp Homes

Ancorp Homes, VIC

Our Top Dual Occupancy & Townhouse Designs in Melbourne's South East [2025]

As Melbourne's South East continues to flourish, property investors and homeowners are increasingly turning to dual occupancy developments to maximize land value and rental returns.Here are some of the top builders specialising in dual occupancy and townhome projects in Melbourne's South East:1. Aspire Designer HomesAspire Designer Homes has built a strong reputation for delivering custom-designed townhouses and dual occupancy homes that blend architectural flair with practical function.With over 45 years of experience, they specialise in maximising land value through clever design solutions, particularly on challenging or sloping blocks common in Melbourne’s South East.Aspire Designer Homes offer end-to-end support from town planning to construction, ensuring a smooth, tailored experience for investors and homeowners alike.Why choose Aspire Designer Homes?Custom Home Designs: Tailored solutions that reflect the client's vision, ensuring each home is unique and personalized.Expertise in Challenging Terrains: Proven ability to design and construct homes on sloping or irregularly shaped blocks, maximizing land use and aesthetic appeal.Comprehensive Services: Offering a range of building services, including greenfield developments, renovations, and knockdown rebuilds, to meet diverse client needs.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=208 home_builder_image_fid=7113]2. TownLiving by MetriconMetricon's TownLiving range offers architecturally designed townhomes that combine style, functionality, and affordability.These turnkey homes come with premium inclusions and are situated in some of Melbourne's most sought-after estates, such as Minta in Berwick and Lyra in Beveridge.Designed for low-maintenance living, these townhomes cater to a variety of buyers, including first-home purchasers, downsizers, and investors.Why Choose Metricon Homes?Comprehensive Services: From initial consultation to project completion, Metricon offers end-to-end solutions for townhouse developments.Design Versatility: A wide range of customisable designs to suit different lifestyles, block sizes, and investment goals.Proven Track Record: With decades of experience, Metricon has established itself as a trusted name in the Australian building industry.3. SOHO LivingSOHO Living is a prominent residential builder and developer in Greater Melbourne, known for delivering architecturally designed homes and townhomes that combine style, quality, and affordability.With a focus on creating vibrant, lasting communities, they offer a range of options suitable for various lifestyles and life stages.Why Choose SOHO Living?Architecturally Designed Homes: SOHO Living provides a wide selection of modern home designs, ensuring that each home reflects contemporary aesthetics and functional living spaces.Turnkey Inclusions: Their homes come with premium inclusions as standard, such as Caesarstone benchtops, European-inspired appliances, landscaping, and more, offering exceptional value without hidden costs.Display Homes Across Melbourne: Prospective buyers can explore SOHO Living's craftsmanship firsthand through their display homes located in various estates, including Smiths Lane in Clyde North and Averley in Nar Nar Goon North.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=160 home_builder_image_fid=6758]4. Ancorp Building GroupAncorp Building Group is a family-owned and operated residential builder based in Cranbourne South, with over 50 years of combined experience in the building and construction industry.They are dedicated to delivering high-quality homes with a personal touch, ensuring each project reflects the client's unique style and requirements.Why Choose Ancorp Building Group?Expertise in Dual Occupancy: Ancorp Building Group offers tailored solutions for dual occupancy developments, helping clients maximise their land's potential and investment returns.Comprehensive Services: From design to completion, Ancorp Building Group provides end-to-end services, including custom homes, knockdown rebuilds, and house &amp; land packages across Melbourne's South East.Award-Winning Designs: Their commitment to excellence is evident in their award-winning floorplans and upcoming display homes, showcasing their craftsmanship and attention to detail.5. Mink HomesMink Homes is a family-owned and operated residential builder based in Essendon North, Melbourne. They specialise in crafting architecturally inspired, bespoke homes that blend functionality with contemporary design.With over 15 years of experience in the building industry, Mink Homes is committed to delivering high-quality homes tailored to their clients' unique lifestyles and preferences.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=332 home_builder_image_fid=8409]Why Choose Mink Homes?Custom Dual Occupancy Solutions: Mink Homes offers tailored dual occupancy designs, including duplexes and townhouse developments, maximising land use and investment potential.Comprehensive Services: From initial consultation and design to construction and interior styling, they provide end-to-end services ensuring a seamless building experience.Client-Centric Approach: Mink Homes prides itself on its collaborative process, working closely with clients to bring their vision to life while maintaining transparency and integrity throughout the project.Getting Started with Your JourneyInvesting in a dual occupancy or townhome in Melbourne’s South East can be a strategic move to maximise your property’s potential.Partnering with experienced builders like those highlighted in this article helps ensure a smooth and successful development process. These builders bring the expertise and tailored services needed to help you generate rental income, accommodate family needs, and increase your property’s value.

Melbourne is home to some of Australia's most innovative and stylish residences, and Aspire Designer Homes has cemented its reputation as a creator of bespoke living spaces. 

See Behind the Scenes of these Designer Melbourne Homes

Aspire Designer Homes operates across a range of Melbourne locations, including Melbourne's South and East Suburbs, Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island and Bass Coast, South Gippsland, and Bayside, from vibrant urban neighbourhoods to rural settings.Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at three incredible Aspire projects that showcase the brand’s creativity, craftsmanship, and versatility.Country Charm in BunyipCountry Charm in the picturesque town of Bunyip is a perfect blend of rural elegance and contemporary design. The façade is warm and inviting, with traditional elements like gable roofing and exposed brick balanced by sleek modern touches.Inside, the house features spacious living areas flooded with natural light, thanks to expansive windows that bring the outdoors in.Custom timber detailing and earthy tones create a sense of rustic sophistication, while clever zoning ensures a practical layout for family living. The design capitalises on its scenic location, offering seamless indoor-outdoor flow to enjoy the surrounding countryside.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=7 home_builder_image_fid=6420]Townhouse with a TwistAspire Designer Homes' Townhouse with a Twist project in Seaford exemplifies innovative design tailored to challenging site conditions.Faced with a sloping block and an existing railway easement at the property's rear, the team collaborated with a specialist in town planning design to create a unique three-level floor plan.This approach not only accommodated the land's natural gradient but also enhanced the living space's functionality and aesthetic appeal.The result is a duplex that seamlessly integrates quality finishes with practical design, ensuring ample living areas without compromise.[smartcode_home_builder:default home_builder_id=7 home_builder_image_fid=6418]Stunning and SustainableAspire Designer Homes have taken green building to the next level with this eco-friendly masterpiece, Stunning and Sustainable.Sustainability is at the heart of this project, with features like solar power, water-saving systems, and energy-efficient materials seamlessly integrated into the design.The home’s modern aesthetic is paired with environmentally conscious practices. Oversized windows not only bring in natural light but also optimise passive solar gain, while the landscaping enhances biodiversity and minimises water usage.Why Aspire Designer Homes Stands OutAspire’s ability to tailor designs to each client’s unique needs sets them apart in the competitive Melbourne market. From country retreats to innovative urban solutions, their work demonstrates a deep understanding of both form and function.[smartcode_home_builder_cta:default home_builder_id=208]

For many buyers, the decision ultimately reflects how they balance lifestyle, location and long-term value.

Knockdown rebuild or buying new: which path suits today’s home buyers?

Financing a new home build works differently from purchasing an established property. Instead of a single loan settlement, construction projects usually involve staged payments, land purchases and lender approvals tied to building contracts.

A buyer’s guide to financing a new home build

In practice, a well-structured strategy can make property investment far more accessible than many people realise.

How strategic property investment can help you grow wealth and buy the home you truly want

Energy-efficient upgrades are no longer niche additions. Solar panels, double-glazing and upgraded insulation have moved from “nice to have” to expected in many new estates. But for buyers planning to sell within five years, the question isn’t environmental, it’s financial. Will these upgrades...

Sustainability without the price tag: Will solar and double-glazing pay off in five years?

Electric vehicle uptake is no longer a fringe consideration for homebuyers. For many, the question isn’t whether they’ll own an EV, but whether their next home will support one properly. In new estates and apartment developments, “EV ready” is increasingly used in marketing. The more relevant...

EV Readiness: What it really takes to install a fast charger in a new home or apartment

Understanding what’s genuinely customisable, and what isn’t, before construction starts can influence not just the final home, but your budget, build timeline and resale position.

Customising Your Plan: What builders will (and won’t) let you change before construction starts

YourLand Developments has officially marked the start of construction on Acclaim, its 1080-lot masterplanned community in Donnybrook, with a sod-turning ceremony held today on site alongside Lauren Kathage MP, Member for Yan Yean, and Cr Christine Stow, Councillor for North Ward. Bild Group has...

Acclaim

YourLand breaks ground on $800m Acclaim community, unlocking major new infrastructure for Donnybrook

Pelican Waters has announced the release of the final stage of land within its Nautical Edge precinct, marking one of the last remaining residential land opportunities in the masterplanned community. The release comprises just 34 lots, located within the island precinct and bordered by water to the...

Final Nautical Edge land released at Pelican Waters

For buyers building in these communities, the resale question isn’t about bold architecture or landmark design. It’s about how to position your home within a field of near-identical stock so that, when it comes time to sell, buyers see incremental value rather than just another listing in the same street.

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