About to build a custom home?

Common questions when building a custom home.

Building a custom home is certainly an exciting experience and it can be very rewarding, but for those who haven't built a custom home before it can often be a bit daunting. To help put your mind at ease and allow you to navigate the process stress free, we've compiled a list of question you're probably curious about and answered them below.

When is the right time to engage an Architect?

If you're thinking about building a custom home, it's already the right time to engage an Architect. There's really no right or wrong time to reach out to an Architect for some advice, so do some research on which one best suits your needs and pick up the phone. Architects offer a lot more than just designing your home, they are a wealth of knowledge, can assist you when looking for land, help with planning approval and even guide you through the construction phase of your home, working with your Builder to ensure your vision is brought to life.

How do I find an Architect to design my home?

Finding an architect to design your home is a lot easier than one might think. Here are a few ways you can find the right architect for you. 

• Word of mouth : Reach out to family and friends for a recommendation. If you know someone personally who had a positive experience with an architect then that's a great place to start. 
• Ask your Builder : Assuming you've already chosen a builder for your home, they may be able to provide a professional recommendation for an architect they've worked with previously. 
• Professional organizations : An organization like the Australian Institute of Architects offers a list of members, all of which are registered with the Architect Registration Board in your state or territory. They have an online directory of over 1800 architecture firms so you have an abundance of choice.

Do I need to know my budget before my Architect designs my dream home?

Put simply - yes, it is certainly in everyones best interest to know your budget before commencing the design process for your dream home. Your architect will work with you to design a home that brings to life your vision whilst also staying within the limitations of your budget. It's also a great idea to involve your builder in this process as they have an intimate knowledge of the costs of materials, labour etc. Collaboration between a builder and an architect is always the best way to deliver a great outcome and experience.

How do I get my plans approved?

For the most part, your architect will be able to handle this process for you. An experienced architect will research local planning requirements and restrictions and ensure your home is designed with these in mind. This ensures the planning approval stage is prompt and hassle free. 

How long does it take to get my plans approved?

The time frame to get your plans approved has a few factors to consider. These include the following:

• Local councils have their own way of processing applications and there isn't a universal approach across the board.
• The volume of applications your local council is in the process of reviewing when you submit.
• The design of your home may be a contributing factor, especially if it's complex.
• Neighbours and/or concerned parties can object to your planning application which may result in delays.
• Your local council may request some changes to the design.

On average it takes between 4-8 weeks to get your plans approved with your local council.

What happens if my local council request changes to my plans?

Don't be concerned if your local council request changes to your plans. It is quite common for them to request changes to the design of your home and your architect should make the necessary updates in consultation with you. If you've already engaged your builder and had them provide a quote based on the preliminary drawings, you should notify them of these requests so they can adjust their tender to suit. It's certainly an advantage to get your builder involved so you have a team of professionals assisting you through this process.

How do I find a Builder?

Finding a builder to build your custom home is arguably the most important decision you need to make. Don't let that stress you out though, we've put together some tips to finding the right builder for you. 

• Word of mouth : Reach out to family and friends for a recommendation. If you know someone personally who had a positive experience with a builder then that's a great place to start. 
• Ask your Architect : Assuming you've already chosen an architect to design your home, they may be able to provide a professional recommendation. Your architect may offer a tender service for you where they engage a select few builders on your behalf to quote your project.
• Professional organizations : An organization like the Master Builders Association of Victoria offer a list of members, all of which are registered with the Victorian Building Authority. Reaching out to them may help you with your search.
• Online research : Take initiative and spend some time researching online. A google search in your local area is a great way to find a builder. Check out their website, read reviews, look at social media. It all helps at the end of the day.

Face to face : Nothing beats meeting a builder in person to get a feel for what their like and whether they're the right fit for you. There are a lot of builders out there so having a good rapport with them is so important. Don't make a decision solely on price or how experienced they may be, you need to form a relationship with your builder and know that you and your home are a priority to them and not just another contract signed.

How long does it take for a Builder to prepare a quote for my custom home?

A Builder will usually prepare a quote for your home within two to four weeks though this largely depends on the size and complexity of the design. Most builders rely on sub-contractors and suppliers to quote specific components of the build and it can easily take two weeks to receive a response from them so it's to be expected that a builder will take bit longer. They need to review your plans in detail to ensure all aspects of the build are considered and accounted for. A good builder will take their time to quote, ask for clarification as required and present a detailed estimate that clearly defines the inclusions, exclusions, and allowances. We recommend asking your builder for an approximate timeframe when requesting a quote from them. If they're open and transparent about the process, it's a good sign that they'll be good to work with during construction.

How much does it cost to build a custom home?

On average it costs between $500,000 and $1,200,000 to build a custom home however this is entirely dependant on the size, complexity of the design and specified finishes. There are so many factors that contribute to costs so we recommend working with your architect to design a home that takes your budget into consideration. Don't select a builder solely on price, work with them to achieve the desired outcome as builder can always recommend cost saving opportunities that you may consider worthwhile. 

How long does it take to build a custom home?

The design and permit approval process for a custom home can take anywhere from six to twelve months. The time it takes to build a custom home can range between nine to twelve months though as with most things, this depends on the size and complexity of the design. 

In general, the larger the home, the longer it takes. If it's a multi-storey design, it will also take longer. Certain design components can also affect construction schedules so ask your builder for an approximate timeframe to complete.

Site conditions are also a major factor to consider when calculating how long it takes for build a custom home. Sloping blocks, undesirable soil conditions, limited site access, incliment weather and a lack of storage space for materials are all factors that can extend the construction period.

Is the Builders quote a fixed price?

Put simply - yes, a builder should be able to provide a fixed price quote even though it's a custom home. Despite a quote / contract being a fixed price, they typically include allowances for unspecified items. These may include fixtures, fittings and finishes throughout the home that will be nominated as provisional sum and prime cost items. We often find that most clients want to be actively involved in the build process and make selections as the job progresses, hence the need for allowances.

Can I request changes to my home after construction has commenced?

Yes of course, that's the benefit of building a custom home but bear in mind, it may affect the completion date. With each variation request, comes a review of the cost and time implications on the build. Product and trade availability can also contribute to delays so it's always beneficial to make selections early and commit to them. Structural changes though possible do present delays as the builder may need to get the plans and engineering updated and notify the building surveyor for clarification on whether the permit will need to be amended.

Do I need to be involved during construction?

Building a custom home typically requires more involvement, but in general we find clients want to be actively involved. That's the exciting part as you get to contribute to building your dream home. The builder will manage the project for you and provide updates as the build progresses so it's really up to you how involved you want to be. Site visits with your builder are an option though not expected of you if you can't spare the time.

Sure, building an off-the-plan-home requires less of your time and input but consider what's best for you. Do you want the perfect home for you and your family? If so, get involved and enjoy the process. You won't regret it.

Anything else you want to know?

Still unsure about something? The team at Built By Guest are happy to answer any questions you have. All you need to do is get in touch with us for a chat.