Home Building Hub

In this episode, we provide a quick guide to help you work out if a house design will fit on your block. We explain front setbacks, side setbacks and how to work out your backyard length, along with an insight into the different codes in Victoria and how different setbacks apply based on your lot size.  Topic timestamps 3:10 - Basic requirements for blocks over 300sqm 9:55 - Basic example of how t...

We get it, no one wants to be sold to… but the reality is that there are a lot of variables when it comes to buying a house and/or land package, so it’s important for every buyer to give themselves the best chance to learn, understand and obtain the best solution for their needs. In this episode, we explain the ‘to dos’ and ‘not to dos’ when enquiring with a builder to give you the best opportunit...

It’s common for people to spend most (if not all) of their budget on the house/land, so in this episode we outline the top 5 items that you should be budgeting for that are often outside of your building contract.  Topic timestamps 2:48 - Fencing and gate/s as per estate requirements 6:42 - Landscaping including driveways, clothesline and letterbox 11:54 - Internal blinds 14:33 - Connections (and...

Listen in as we outline 10 essential items that we have seen other buyers either miss or not understand when buying their house and/or land. This is a pivotal checklist that will save you time and money, so be sure to tune in.  Join Australia’s most trusted new home education community  Get FREE stuff: Ultimate Home Building Guide w/ templates & checklists Join here > https://www.skool.com/...

Did you know that there are new regulations coming to our industry in 2024 that will impact house designs and build prices substantially? In this episode, we explain the 7-star and livable housing changes that are coming, outlining the pros and the cons of each… and to wrap up, we finish with our opinions and reasons on whether you should or should not buy before these regulations come into effect...

In this episode we discuss the impact of pre-site technology in the new home building industry. We discuss some examples of the technologies you can use or see today, and also share our views on display homes… and whether we think they are still vital to home buyers or are they going to be phased out?  Topic timestamps 2:18 - Where is technology taking us in the new home building industry? 6:10 -...

In this episode we discuss the difference between titled land (ready to build on) and untitled land (not ready to build on). We explain the definitions of each term, but also discuss the pros and cons of each option to better educate you about your options - and the ramifications - when considering a land purchase. Topic timestamps 2:47 - The stats are showing a lot of people are buying non-titled...

Investors, join us as we guide you through some valuable tips and insights when it comes to building an investment property. We touch on each step in the journey, having the right goal and mindset, choosing the right level of upgrades, narrowing down the best areas, the benefits of full turnkey homes and much much more.  Topic timestamps 2:47 - Importance of talking to your broker 4:18 - Understan...

This episode is for First Home Buyers. We begin with essential finance tips and a rundown of the current government grants available. Then, we explain how to balance location with budget, and also touch on builder discussions, deposit amounts, your needs vs wants list and much more. Don't miss out on this invaluable advice for a successful first home build! Topic timestamps 2:45 - Let’s start...

Join us as we dive into greenfield land estates and common lot types. Discover the distinctions between different lot types, sizes and even the different codes applying to blocks based on their overall size as well. We cover the meaning of site coverage and also give you valuable insights into setbacks, private open space and the impact of estate requirements. Topic timestamps 2:57 - Different lot...

Join us as we welcome Will Anderson from RPM Real Estate to discuss the current property market. Discover RPM's role and influence in the industry, and gain insights into immigration, purchasing trends and the current state of the market. Will also shares his insights and views on the current barriers to entry from borrowing capacity through to builder confidence. Topic timestamps: 3:10 - Wel...

Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve into the world of energy ratings and sustainable living. We kick off by introducing AI and machine learning into energy ratings, paving the way for a greener future. Discover the ins and outs of NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) and what it takes to achieve a coveted 7-Star rating. Explore the key design elements impacted by these chan...

Join us as we dive deep into the world of land development and sustainable living with Rory Costelloe, the Founder of Villawood Properties. Hear directly from one of the industry’s pioneers, as he shares the process of buying a block of land along with outlining some of the enticing features within Villawood Estates. He also discusses the current market, interest rates and shares Villawood’s appro...

If you’re looking for property insights and data to better educate yourself whether you’re buying established or new, this Facebook Group is for you. Join us as we introduce Atul Jhamb, the creator of the “Property Insights” group that has reached over 5000 members in less than 1 year. In the episode you will learn about the key topics and insights you can obtain from the group, what differentiate...

In this episode we discuss the impact of making design or structural changes to your floorplan. Join us as we explain why different builders have different levels of allowable changes, what some of the more acceptable (or safer) changes are vs some of the more risky ones, and we finish off with our advice to you when considering or discussing structural changes with your builder.  Topic timestamps...

Builder promotions are confusing, so in this episode we give you some insider insights into how promotions really work from builder to builder. You will learn about the positioning and the types of promotions and how they are ultimately designed to get you to enquire. Timestamps: 3:05 - Introduction to builder promotions  4:30 - Let’s start with car brands… price point vs value-for-money vs premiu...

One of the hardest things to do is find the right estate and the right block of land… however in recent years there’s been a fantastic resource that has become available called Openlot.com.au In this episode, we meet the founder of Openlot.com.au - Qi Chen - and we discuss the main features of his website and how it will help you in your new home journey. Timestamps: 2:11 - History on Qi - and the...

Today we welcome special guest Walt Collins, the host of Channel 10’s Buy to Build. Listen in as Walt shares the latest home buying trends along with identifying the most popular features of display homes. Walt also provides his insight into the current state of the building industry and finishes by providing his top tips for new home (and land) buyers. Timestamps: 2:20 - Walt Collins introduction...

In this episode we dive into design guidelines, otherwise known as estate requirements or covenants. We help you understand what design guidelines are, provide some examples for you and also outline the reason for design guidelines along with a few tips at the end. Timestamps 2:40 - What are estate covenants / guidelines? 3:45 - Where can you find estate guidelines? 5:40 - What is the point of des...

Site costs are one of the most confusing and complex components in new home construction. In this episode we explain what site costs are, how they work, what they are made up of and ultimately help you understand why they vary between every block of land. We begin the episode with a short and sharp summary for those that want only the basics, and then we move into the more detailed explanation for...

Join us as we provide short and sharp definitions of 27 terms and acronyms used on detailed drawings and plans. This episode will help you review and understand a set of detailed drawings presented to you by your builder, ultimately assisting you with the final decision on your home design and the relevant inclusions and upgrades required as well. Topic timestamps 1:55 “MM” Measurements on plans 2...

In this episode, we explain some of the most commonly used terms used by builders, particularly the ones found in building quotes. This will empower you to gain the knowledge you need to navigate this crucial step with confidence and make an informed decision about your new home builder. Topic timestamps 2:10 Squares and square metres 2:49 Full Turnkey 3:10 Facade 3:54 Base price 4:40 Site costs 5...

Our goal here is to help you better understand some of the language surrounding your exciting new home building venture. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of common land terms, empowering you with the knowledge to navigate your home building journey with confidence and ease. Topic timestamps 2:38 Land deposit  3:20 Land settlement 3:57 Titled land 4:49 Untitled land 6:54 Plan Of subdivision...

In this episode we sit down with Dean who is about to build his 3rd home. Join us as Dean shares his key learnings and lessons throughout the whole process, including common mistakes, unexpected surprises and also managing a budget against your wishlist. And to finish it off, Dean provides his top 5 tips for building a new home… so don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge from a...

Join us as we explain all-things facades, helping you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the perfect facade for your home. We discuss whether investing in an upgraded facade is truly worth it and we shed light on any potential restrictions and considerations to keep in mind when choosing your facade. We outline a key material to avoid, plus we cover the impact of block widths on f...