Browse Forums General Discussion 1 Sep 28, 2019 11:11 am Hi there, I'm feeling a little overwhelmed with the process of building even though this is already our second time. I think mainly because we are building a 50+ sq 2 storey home this time. Our first built was single storey 30 sq 10 years ago. Both in a volume builder. We are still few weeks away with our contract signing but I feel like I need to make a few changes. Silly me, I missed them during the design and colour selection process. Prior to our colour appointment, we already paid for a variation fee of $1k as I needed to change a few items (roof to balcony, extend study room, changes in the Butlers pantry, ensuite lay out). I was told that any additional changes will incur a variation fee. I am not sure if I should just forget those changes and accept what we have now or incur the last $1k variation fee? If I did plan very well, I could have not wasted the $1k (that's already equivalent to a set of pot drawers). Some of the changes are (please also comment if necessary) -depth of laundry bench from 600mm to 650mm or 700mm(so washing machine and dryer won't stick out) -walk in pantry lay out - 450mm shelves on all sides might be too deep. Would like to have 300mm shelves above, and lower remains at 450mm. -drawer under oven. The design shows no drawer under the oven so I'd like to add. Although we already have plenty of storage but will be helpful if there's a drawer under the oven. -set of drawers in the butlers pantry -island bench overhang from 300mm to 350mm/400mm -tiled splashback to ensuites so we could have powerpoint too just right above the bench and not above toilet sit. I understand about the variation fees as it's another work for the builder to make changes. Those people behind it have deadlines to meet. In your experience, how many times did you have to make a variation fee during your building design process? Re: Variation fees - when is the limit 2Sep 28, 2019 11:27 am Generally the fee is for every variation. Though some builder s may waive them if a small cost change. If I were you given the kitchen is a long way off in the build I would wait in case you have further changes to make and lump them all into one variation. Re: Variation fees - when is the limit 3Oct 01, 2019 2:08 pm Jays2007 Generally the fee is for every variation. Though some builder s may waive them if a small cost change. If I were you given the kitchen is a long way off in the build I would wait in case you have further changes to make and lump them all into one variation. Thanks. I guess not all builders are the same. I've reviewed our floor plan again and I think I know what I like/need now. I'm now on 7th page (including screenshots of the drawing that I like to change) - so it's a lot. Once these are finalised then they will have to prepare the tender. Re: Variation fees - when is the limit 4Oct 18, 2019 6:01 pm I am confused Variation fees to contract are usually post contract signing. How can they be charging you variation fees when you do not have a contract yet? Before contract signing you have some power. They want your business. Building is not booming at the moment. If they mention fees negotiate them down. In NSW the maximum deposit for building work is 5% until the builder provides HBCF insurance 1 4826 Is it just a report written to give to the bank initially and it is based on what and how your payments are made up for, or is it a full service where they go out and… 2 5602 0 19757 |