Browse Forums General Discussion 1 Aug 18, 2006 10:46 am I've noticed an increasing number of Spec home builders dropping their price to build, e.g Simmonds home at $99k for 15sq (13BUILD), or National Home Builders at $4600 per Sq. etc.
If anyone can help, my question is, will it be more cost effective to use a Spec builder or to assign the job to a small local builder. I understand the finish of the Spec homes is more towards budget fittings, I would ask the local builder to build to the same level of a Spec home. But to my design. The way I see it, the Spec home builders have big offices, lots of staff, display centres and spend very big on marketing and advertising, sure they have a stronger buying power and their material costs may be lower, however all those other costs need to be covered, yet they can build fairly cheaply. A small builder does not have all the huge overheads of a Spec home builder, but, some of the prices are incredibly outrageous, for what I would consider to be the same quality. Am I missing something? Re: To Spec or not to Spec.. 2Aug 18, 2006 11:56 am Hi King Leo,
Having just gone through all of this, I didnt think that a price per square is a realistic comparison. It really comes down to features, inclusins v extras, sizing, design etc. If you are close to a decision, and the designs and features are very similar, then maybe you can negotiate. As to smaller builders, I looked at them, and there were a couple I looked at. In the end, reputation, homework, price v design and inclusions saw the buying power of a major builder win my business. Just my thoughts. Good luck though, let all and sundry know how you go. Adrian B Re: To Spec or not to Spec.. 3Aug 19, 2006 12:21 am Quote: I would ask the local builder to build to the same level of a Spec home. But to my design. If you want to save money and have a limited budget then go with a large volume builder and don't change anything. Otherwise, be prepared for a significant jump in cost. The HIA contract, in the term & conditions section states that "Commencment" is deemed when the drainage is started or the piers are dug or the slab is formed up (incase… 2 6177 DIY, Home Maintenance & Repair But if it is a ground level open pit, then it is not a charged system. No surprises there. The pipes have obviously been altered and there would be a reason for this.… 3 31280 I work with owner, he/she is my man on the ground and I instruct them when to visit the site and take photos and I have other tools in the bag. 4 15265 |