We are new to this forum, but have been lurking for a good 6-12 months. This is my 3rd time building (have build twice with Henley) and my partners first building experience, however he works in the trade so possibly knows more than me. We purchased an extremely small block of land in Blackburn, about 325m2; the block came with approved plans for a 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home; when purchasing the block we never LOVED the plan that was attached to it, but both agreed that we could live with the plan if it was our only choice ... The area we too perfect for us to pass up, and because we had been looking for so long we knew how often such a flat and clear block in that sort after neighbourhood came up for sale. So in August last year, we purchased the block.
We spoke to a number of builders most of whom told us that changing the plans would be a lot of work, Whitehorse Council isn't meant to be easy to deal with. We then spoke to Carter Grange who said that yes it would be exxy to get the plans changed, but it was do-able. Since our first meeting with Carter Grange they gave off a very 'can-do' attitude, nothing seems too hard for them. Their consultant put us in touch with a building consultant 'Urbis', who we can not recommend highly enough, they did everything to help us achieve everything we wanted on such a tiny block. We now have plans approved for 5 bedrooms (2x masters), 3 livings, 3 toilets, double garage and outdoor living space - yes we basically have no backyard, but we figure - less to mow!
We have followed a number of blogs and forums with regards to Carter Grange, and spoken to other people building with them; so we feel we are making the right decision ... but any advice is greatly appreciated.