Builders Beyond Borders

Choosing the right builder is one of the biggest decisions you will make when building or renovating. In this episode, the Builders Beyond Borders team unpack the real differences between working with a family run building business and a large project or volume builder. Andy and Louise from Perway Construction Services, along with Dean and Shannon from DJH Builders, share honest insights from year...

Client disappointment is one of the most challenging parts of any building or renovation project. In this episode, the Builders Beyond Borders team unpack why disappointment happens, how expectations can drift from reality, and what builders and clients can do to manage it better. Hugh, Andy, and Paul share real examples from their own projects, from selection shock and budget surprises to delays...

Aussie builders Paul, Andy, and Hugh look back on the wins, challenges, and mindset shifts that shaped their businesses and strengthened how they serve clients. From improving the client experience early in the journey to learning how mindset and communication impact every build, this episode is a candid conversation about what really matters in the construction industry. The builders also share w...

Before you spend $10K–$20K on architectural plans, there's a smarter first step that can save you money, stress and months of wasted time. In today's episode of Builders Beyond Borders, we break down why homeowners should speak to a builder before engaging an architect or designer especially if you're building or renovating in Australia. Joining us are Paul from Independent Building Solutions (Can...

In this episode of Builders Beyond Borders, we sit down with Madison from Tasmania — a business owner, soon-to-be mum, and proud granny flat resident — to chat about how downsizing into a small space became the smartest housing decision her family ever made. From converting an Airbnb cabin into a cozy home on her in-laws' five-acre property, to the financial freedom, family connection, and minimal...

You might be surprised to learn that bathroom renovations often need just as many trades as building an entire home. In this episode, we break down the full process and explain the behind-the-scenes coordination required to make a bathroom renovation run smoothly. As builders who do this every day, we're sharing what really goes into turning that tired old bathroom into something functional and be...

Is your dream home renovation becoming a budget nightmare? In this episode of Builders Beyond Borders, the crew gets real about the financial side of building — and why it's not your builder's job to magically meet your budget if you're not upfront about it. Join Shannon from DJH Builders, Hugh from New Realm Homes, Paul from Independent Building Solutions, and Louise & Andy from Perway Constructi...

Before you knock down a wall or choose a tapware finish, tune into this essential episode of Builders Beyond Borders. Hosted by Dean and Shannon Hodgetts of DJH Builders and joined by Louise and Andy Kearns from Perway Construction Services, and Paul from Independent Building Solutions, this episode uncovers the real costs of home renovations that too many Aussie homeowners learn the hard way. Fro...

There's a critical step many homeowners skip and it's not the floor plan. It's finance. In this episode, Shannon from DJH Builders and Hugh from New Realm Homes get real about what can go wrong when your finance broker isn't the right fit. They share stories from the field and offer candid advice to help you avoid financial heartbreak before your build even begins. The wrong broker can cost you ti...

What happens when homeowners and builders build more than just houses — but real relationships? In this episode of Builders Beyond Borders, the crew explores why connection, communication, and mutual respect are the secret ingredients to a smoother, more enjoyable building or renovation experience. Join Louise from Perway NWA, Hugh from New Realm Homes, Paul from Independent Building Solutions, An...

In this episode, we dive into one of the hottest debates in Australian residential construction — timber framing vs steel and double brick. Whether you're a first-time home builder or looking to renovate sustainably, this chat offers real builder insights into why timber homes continue to win in flexibility, sustainability, cost-efficiency, and energy performance. From passive house certifications...

Are you planning a new home build or renovation in Australia and wondering which trades you'll need along the way? In this episode of Builders Beyond Borders, seasoned Aussie builders Paul from Independent Building Solutions (Canberra), Louise from Perway Constructions (Perth), and Hugh from New Realm Homes (Melbourne) break down the full list of trades involved in building a home—from pre-constru...

If you're building or renovating and want to avoid common pitfalls, this episode is a must-listen. Paul Kennedy from Independent Building Solutions in Canberra, Hugh Maasstricht from New Realm Homes in Melbourne, and Louise Kearns from Perway Constructions in Perth share the biggest lessons learned from their combined decades in the Australian construction industry.   From scheduling mishaps to cl...

Thinking about building or renovating your home, but feeling overwhelmed by where to start? You're not alone. Many first-time builders fall into the same traps like rushing into plans, picking the cheapest quote, or trusting the wrong advice. In this episode, we share the honest truth every homeowner should hear before starting the journey.   In this kickoff episode of Builders Beyond Borders, mee...

Not all builders are created equal. If you're dreaming of a forever home, this is the episode you must hear before signing any contract. In this episode of Builders Beyond Borders, we break down the real difference between working with a custom builder versus a volume builder in Australia. From pricing traps and hidden fees to poor communication and rushed timelines, we share real stories and behi...

Are you building or renovating and feeling overwhelmed about choosing the right builder? You're not alone—and we've got your back. In this episode, we unpack the must-know tips for selecting a builder who communicates clearly, respects your budget, and actually cares about your project. We're experienced builders from across Australia who share red flags to watch out for, how to avoid budget blowo...

Thinking of building or renovating your home in Australia? Builders Beyond Borders is here to help you do it right. In this short trailer, meet your hosts — experienced Aussie builders — and learn what to expect from this podcast. If you're ready to build smarter, hit follow and start listening!