Hi all, I've finally decided to start my own thread as the commencement of my build will hopefully start in the coming weeks.
I've read a lot of your posts which have been extremely helpful along the way so thank you! Hopefully I can now in turn help someone else.
I'm building the Mainvue Amalfi 428 in a new estate in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. The land will settle in the coming days, so keen to get started as soon as possible. I'm a first time buyer and builder so any advice I can get will be great. I had my colour selection a week ago which was all very straightforward due to the being fairly well prepared. Was out of there in under two hours. Pretty much had everything picked before walking in.
A few upgrades/colours off the top of my head:
- Vista facade with part render
- Increase ceiling heights to 2720mm
- Square set cornices throughout front part of house (stops at back hallway)
- Sliding door to ensuite
- Evaporative A/C (half price thanks to a promotion the weekend I signed up!)
- Close off Butlers Pantry and add shelving
- 40mm Caesarstone kitchen bench with drop down sides
- Grand Alfresco
- Timber windows to front facade
- Move in pack with driveway etc
- Shower niches to both bathrooms
- Windsor translucent internal doors with timber frame
- Chose the truffle concept board - monument colourbond roof, fascia etc. Rich chocolate to timber.
Can't think of others, but few little upgrades with carpet underlay, tiles etc.
I have decided to remove the WIR fitout and do it post handover.
My tender and contract is coming up next week and I have a few questions for anyone:
- Does the slab normally have a slight step down to garage or flat. I've heard the step down is recommended.
- Should I raise the timber stackers due to increased ceiling heights?
- Was there a lot of unexpected costs presented at tender?
I'll try and post some photos of colour selections when I figure out how to.
Thanks in advance for any help.