I thought it would be good idea to share some photos of our build. There was lot of delay with land title due to few different reasons. So our land finally settled in November 2017.
So it's going to be 4 bed, 2 bath. We have done number of upgrades and modifications ensuring we don't over spend.
Few things that we included. This is not complete list.
- Sarking. Though we're not in bush fire zone we kept this
- Upgraded insulation for roof and wall
- 2.7m high ceilings throughout
- Extra drains in all bathrooms and powder room. So that if required we can clean thoroughly and water can be drained. These drains are just not provided by default
- Number of upgrades in kitchen and bathroom. For example waterfall for island bench, 900mm appliances
- Niche in bathrooms
- Double entry door
- Undermount sink in kitchen
- Sink and cooktop in alfresco
- LED throughout
- Many double power points
- Eaves on all sides not just front. (450mm??)
We're getting each stage inspected through independent inspection. So hopefully that would help too.
Couple of other things we also got included was:
Driveway
Wall hung vanity
Also have walk in pantry (butlers pantry) in the design
Water point for fridge
Will be using space under stairs as extra storage
We missed on some flooring in alfresco but that's probably not a big issue as we can get it done bit later. Obviously fencing and landscaping is something to be done. Will post more photos again.
Couple of things I learned is:
- It's pretty important to get land that is as flat as possible. This will help reduce site costs. This also ensures you don't have to spend on retaining walls.
- It's good to keep measure tape with you
- Keep in mind that your build may not include driveway depending on contract you signed. Blinds, security door, fencing, landscaping can be expensive so keep extra budget for that
- Try to keep things in writing when communicating with builder
Looking inwards from main entry double door. Paperbark fascia is seen too.
Roof tiles have arrived..
From rear
Looking from kitchen towards living area, dining and alfresco in the diagnol..
How is it lookin?? Any feedback? We liked Bristile tiles and we opted for Phoenix.
https://bristileroofing.com.au/nsw/product/designer.
Few things we need to do still is some colour selection for kitchen cupboards, island bench stone with waterfall and also flooring.
Which colour is suitable for kitchen, walk in pantry and benchtop stone? We fear white may not be best choice as it gets stained easily..
Waiting for my builder to fix things that were raised by my private inspection company for frame stage. Hopefully won't take too long. There were number of issues raised in the report so need to get it rectified.
Few more tips for anyone looking to start new build:
- Expect your land to not get titled on time. Sometimes it can delayed by many months. Council needs to give compliance before it can go to titles office
- Don't sign the contract especially with builder without understanding what you getting into. Getting contract checked before signing it is a great idea. Builder can include nasty terms and conditions which will not be in your favor.
- Don't just look at promotions from builders. Many builders charge a lot for any variations after contract is signed and also if there is delay in start of construction.
- Keep in mind that display homes are marketing tool. No builder would like to show cheap unfinished work in display home. So it's built with lot of care and upgrades. What matters is quality of service you get after contract is signed and work is started. Usually builders will tell you lot of good stories before contract is signed but once it's signed they hardly look after you.
- It's definitely a good idea to get independent inspection done for each stage. Gives you more confidence in quality. Lot of times tradies are lazy and without any clue. And builder won't be bothered to fix these issues. Slab, frame, waterproofing etc. are important.
Happy Friday..!!
Bro,
Seems like you lost interest in posting updates after May 25th. Can i see some more coming through? I am starting my build now.
Shisir.