We understand that building a new home can be a daunting task and you will no doubt have many questions. Here are some tips and articles to guide your decision-making.
Our trained and experienced Fresh Homes Design Consultants and Administration staff, are here to help you along your journey.
Often it’s more about knowing what questions to ask, to help you make informed choices and to keep on top of what’s you need to be aware of.
Click on the questions below to reveal the answer.
Are Fresh Homes Licenced Builders?
Can Fresh Homes Build On Any Type Of Block?
Yes, we can! Sloping blocks, small or narrow allotments, require some careful handling and building features included but nothing that experienced builders like ourselves can’t handle.
We have expert engineers to call upon, and we’re flexible enough to handle any build.
Can We Customise Our Fresh Home Designs For You?
Yes. We’re flexible. Fresh Homes can work with your prepared plans or amend our proprietary designs to suit your wish list.
Using Fresh Homes Award Winning Designs is a huge saving for most home owners that are starting out.
CHECK OUT the many house designs we have on offer.
CLICK HERE for a guide to designing your home.
What Contracts Do Fresh Homes Use?
Fresh Homes uses the HIA Queensland New Homes Construction Contract (QC1)
To view a sample contract CLICK HERE
Are There Additional Costs When Building To Be Aware Of?
Approval fees are generally paid to the council or to a private building certifier and may take the form of Development Approval fees (DA), Building Approval fees (BA) and Construction Certificate (CC) fees. There are often other fees to consider too, including Long Service Levies, Capital Works fees and other environmental contributions fees, just to name a few. Check your contract to see what is included, if some of these are not mentioned, contact relevant authorities to determine what you may expect to pay.
2. Site preparation costs;
The cost of preparing a site for the building process is one of the most common areas where poor communication and lazy quoting practices result in budget blowouts. Often you may not know what lies underneath until tests or thorough inspections are carried out. Our advice is to choose your blocks carefully and do your homework to foreseen possible expenses. Here are the most common site costs to look out for:
- Site clearing (existing dwellings/ trees etc)
- Surveyor / soil tests and contour report
- Bushfire assessment / Flooding / Acoustics Reports
- Block/ retaining /fill or cutting
3. Temporary site requirements
This is one that may slip through or be hidden. Check that items such as temporary fencing, a site toilet, and erosion control measures as required by your local council are included in your upfront costs.
What Is Involved In The Construction Process?
There are many terms and processes which are particular to the building industry. It is important to conduct your own research provided by unbiased sources.
A very useful resource is provided by the Australian Government | YourHome and you can access by CLICKING HERE.
What Is Meant By Practical Completion?
Practical completion can be a confusing time for both the owner and builder when the correct procedures outlined in the contract are not followed. Owners will often have a perception that every single item will be completed in accordance with the contract and that the house will be ‘perfect’. However, for a number of reasons outside the builder’s and owner’s control the home may be practically complete for the purpose of handover and payment and not be absolutely complete.
For more information CLICK HERE
What Documents Do I Receive At Handover?
Make sure you have received all relevant documents from your builder at hand-over including:
- certificates of inspection (e.g. slab, frame, waterproofing)
- product warranties for appliances
- reports, notices or other documentation issued by services providers (e.g. electricity, gas, telephone, water or sewerage).
Note: if you have any problems with appliances after handover, contact the product supplier not your contractor.
What Is The Role Of A Building Certifier?
The Builder is responsible for engaging the Certifier to inspect the construction of the house throughout the process to ensure each aspect of the build is compliant with the approved plans and regulations.
Will My Property Be Covered By Warranty Insurance?
Yes. The builder/contractor is required to pay the premium on your behalf ASAP.
Check that you have the right warranty insurance certificate in accordance with your contract.
Is My Pool Meeting Safety Standards?
If you are adding in a pool check that it meets all necessary Council requirements.
CLICK HERE if you live in QLD
CLICK HERE if you live in NSW
What Grants Are Available That I Might Be Able To Apply For?
If you are looking at building or buying your first home, it’s worthwhile finding out if you are eligible for the Queensland Government’s First Home Owners Grant.
CLICK HERE for all the information.