Should we start looking looking for a builder already?

cccgav · Aug 08, 2020 1:53 am

Hello, my partner and I just started this home building journey.

We've just gone under contract on a land but it's 2mos away from settlement.

Should we start looking for a builder at this point? If so how far in the builder process should we be in so that we can get on the build straight after land settlement? Ie. Quotes, pricing, contract signed etc.?

Fore20 · Aug 08, 2020 2:13 pm

You should have most likley sourced a builder around 4-5 months ago. By the time you go through the tender, plans, site plans and external colours needed to submit to council,then average of 6 week wait for DA to be approved for construction to start.

So start now or you iwll be pushing it out by even more months.

Good luck with your build.

gogo65 · Aug 08, 2020 9:19 pm

The average time from initial deposit to site start would be 6-9 months, start looking now!!!

cs212 · Aug 08, 2020 11:22 pm

cccgav

Hello, my partner and I just started this home building journey.

We've just gone under contract on a land but it's 2mos away from settlement.

Should we start looking for a builder at this point? If so how far in the builder process should we be in so that we can get on the build straight after land settlement? Ie. Quotes, pricing, contract signed etc.?

2 months will go quickly. You need heaps of time to find the builders that suit you, find a house layout that you like or may take longer if you’re going to custom build your house. You still have colour and electrical appointment, maybe amending the plans, many amendment for plans, design and electricals.. which can take weeks or months.

Then after you signed the contract, more payments, final drawing, maybe lots of queries back and forth (i did anyway), bank approvals (if you’re taking loans), council approval will take a few weeks at least or maybe a couple of months!

So definitely start looking for a builder now.

Speakers · Aug 09, 2020 12:57 am

Definitely start looking now. With that said, don't rush into any decisions!

cccgav · Aug 18, 2020 12:07 am

Thanks all! We have started going out and talking to builders and you're all on the money! And wow heaps of decision making to do. Who knew deciding on a layout takes so much time :/

KameGame · Sep 01, 2020 4:37 pm

cccgav

Thanks all! We have started going out and talking to builders and you're all on the money! And wow heaps of decision making to do. Who knew deciding on a layout takes so much time :/

It's a rookie mistake, but don't rush into it just so that you can make up for the lost time. I was in the same boat as you. We put in a deposit for the land and really started working with our builder a month after (last Oct), construction began only in Apr this year. Take your time to finalise on your designs and requirements.
At the same time you must be cautious about your state's rules regarding the exemptions for first time home owners, like in Vic you've to occupy your home within 12 months from the land settlement date, to still qualify for the land transfer duties exemption.