For first-home buyers, a project home is the most cost-effective way to secure a new home and enter the real estate market. While they are reasonably affordable and offer a brand-new property, there are limitations and restrictions that you need to know before you choose a project home builder
After working for almost two decades in the project home industry, designing and styling display homes, I’ve seen the highs and lows first-hand. There’s nothing as exciting as building your first home from scratch – but also nothing more terrifying than signing onto a project worth hundreds of thousands of dollars!
To help you choose the right project home builder for your new home, here are 10 things you need to consider before you start the journey.
10 things to consider when choosing your project home builder
Take your time with the contract
This will usually state agreed timelines, inclusions, exclusions, pricing and other requirements for the project. It should also confirm that the builder is registered and has the correct level of insurance to cover anything that might go wrong along the way. The contract should also clearly set out quality control provisions, warranties and project milestones.
Know what’s included (and what’s not)
Some project home builders are better at explaining inclusions than others but it’s your responsibility to know before you sign on the dotted line. If you’re benefitting from an upgrade promotion, be clear on how that works and get it in writing. You may be surprised to learn that floor coverings, window dressings and exterior finishes are not always included.
Are you able to change the plans?
You might love the plans but want to swap around some rooms or close off an area. Most of the time it’s possible to make small changes to plans – but that often comes at an extra cost. Make sure you know where you stand before you sign the contract. You may have access to a complimentary change or find that nothing can be altered at all – always ask first!
Read reviews and speak to past clients
You will always find reviews for project home builders online – especially poor reviews. The truth is, building a home is a complex process and something is bound to go wrong. The key is seeing how the builder responds to client issues. If you are still unsure, ask to speak to a previous client to understand how the process played out and how the builder responded.
Ask about the cost of display home upgrades
After more than a decade as a display home interior designer, I know most display homes are built with extra upgrades. That kitchen that has completely blown your mind will most likely cost you more than the base price – the same goes for the outside pergola. If you’ve fallen in love with a display home feature, ask what including that will add to your build cost.
Understand all the little details
It’s the little details that make the difference in a home – like whether the taps emerge from the vanity or come out of the wall. If you make the wrong choice (or are unaware there is a choice) it will affect how you live in your dream home. Don’t be afraid to ask about the small details with the builder or seek advice from a design expert to ensure you get what you want.
Get to know your design consultants
Most project home builders will offer a design service, where you can work with a colour consultant to choose your exterior and interior colours, textures and materials. Not all of these consultants are qualified designers – so make sure you understand their level of experience and expertise before relying on their services to bring your design vision to life.
Be aware of the project builder’s preferred suppliers
To keep prices affordable, project home builders often partner with specific suppliers and state that you must purchase from them as part of your contract. While this helps keep costs lower, it also reduces your choices. If your heart is set on a specific tile or product, talk to your builder first to see if it can be included in your project home build.
Know who your contact person will be
You’ll be surprised at just how many people are involved in a project home build! That’s why you need access to a single source of truth throughout the process. This may be a project manager, site coordinator or client liaison representative. Ask how you’ll be kept informed and get their direct contact details so you can quickly get in touch if you have any concerns.
See if you can bring in outside help
Despite some of the restrictions that apply to project home builds, there is no reason why you can’t seek the help of a professional interior designer along the way. Engaging someone from the start of the process gives you confidence in your choices. It also allows you to adjust the contract to reflect how you will choose and source your own design elements.
How an interior designer can help your project home build
Aside from reducing decision fatigue and helping you bring your dream home to life, an experienced interior designer can prevent your new home from looking like every other in your estate. Steering you in a more exciting direction, an interior designer can add a touch of personality while increasing the value of your build – putting you ahead right from the start!
Not sure if working with an interior designer is right for your project home build? Why not give Nancy from Design to Inspire a call? With almost two decades of experience in interior design and project building, Nancy helps smooth the way while designing your dream home.
Book your free discovery call to find out more.
