What to Look for When Choosing a Builder
A good comparison goes beyond the display home. Look closely at the builder, the home, the written information and the questions you can have answered before you decide.
Start with the basics
Compare What Can Be Checked
Builders present their homes in different ways, so it helps to compare the same points each time. Focus on information that can be confirmed rather than relying on broad promises.
The five checks below will not decide for you, but they can help you ask better questions and make a more informed comparison.
Five practical checks
Five Things Worth Checking
- 1
Registration and Who Will Contract With You
Confirm the legal name of the builder and check the registration details relevant to the work. In Victoria, the Building and Plumbing Commission provides a public practitioner search. The name in the building contract should be clear before you sign.
- 2
Whether the Home Works for Your Land
A floorplan may suit your household but still need to be considered against the block. Ask about frontage, depth, setbacks, easements, slope, orientation, developer requirements and other property information that may affect suitability.
- 3
What the Written Inclusions Actually Cover
Compare the applicable drawings, specifications and inclusions schedule. Ask which facade, fixtures, finishes and site-related items are included, which are optional and which are still to be confirmed. Display-home photography may show upgrades or items that are not included.
- 4
How Price Information Is Presented
Ask what a published price is based on and what could change it. Land, site conditions, location, design changes, facade choice, upgrades, approvals and third-party requirements can all affect the final amount. Compare current written information, not headline figures alone.
- 5
Whether Questions Are Answered Clearly
Pay attention to whether the builder explains unfamiliar terms, records important choices and gives you the documents you need to review. You should be able to ask what is included, what is not yet known and what the next decision means for the home and budget.
Questions to take with you
Use the Same Questions Each Time
- What is the legal name and registration number of the builder that would enter the contract?
- Which home designs may suit my block, and what property information is still needed?
- Which inclusions schedule and drawings apply to the price I am comparing?
- Which items shown in images or display homes are upgrades or not included?
- Which amounts are confirmed and which are allowances, estimates or still subject to assessment?
- Who can answer my questions before I make a commitment?
Compare a Khalsa Living Home
Explore the available home designs, then tell us about your land, priorities and building budget.