Are you planning to build a family?

Is your current house not big enough?

Or are you simply planning to invest in a property in Gatton or Plainland?

Choosing a custom-built home may be the right fit for you for the following reasons:

 

1. Overall personalisation

This is one of the biggest advantages of building a custom house. You get what you want and what you’ve been dreaming of. No need to run through the tripping process for a house that fits what you want. Tendencies of renovation an already built house is taken away as your customised home is cut to your design.

 

2. Customised floor plan

The design of a pre-existing house was the idea of another person. Not yours. But with a custom-built home, the design solely depends on you. The design of the floor plan is all yours. Whether you want a small or equal bedroom – it’s on you. Your choice.

3. Extreme privacy

Customising the design of your home gives you a higher level of privacy rather than a pre-existing house. Since the design of the floor plan is on you – you decide how much to show to the neighbourhood and how much to hide. This includes the bushes, gate design, window levels, and level of barricade can be customised to your property’s privacy.

4. Distinctive finishes

It’s your house, so you’re the one to be followed even when it comes to the finishes. You can incorporate your character into it. This makes it distinct to other houses because, with a custom-built home, you are able to integrate your passion and fashion into it. 

5. Lot area optimisation

Building a customised house allows you to work with builders, architects, and engineers that can help you take advantage of your lot area. You can share your ideas with them and they can show the possibilities of it. Factors like sunlight, trees and foliage, airflow pattern, and the size of the green space to surround your home is taken into consideration.

6. Top-notch quality

With the ability to customise your house – you can ensure that its quality is top-notch. You’ll be able to supervise the materials to be used in it. Unlike in pre-existing houses, you don’t know the quality of its materials and how it was built. Customising your house reduces the chances of substandard materials being used.

Make sure to work with a reliable and expert builder like Davolyn construction that can guarantee you a top-quality home. Satisfaction is yours.

7. Lower Costing

You might raise a brow but this one is for real. Some think that buying a pre-existing house and lot is cheaper, well they’re wrong. The possibilities of reconfiguration, repairs, and upgrade on the pre-existing house are high since it wasn’t designed to your ideas. So we’re talking about more expenses here.

Customising your home pose lower cost in the long run because every corner is what you wanted. Even the wall finishes, lighting features, stairs cases, and colours are your unique ideas. You might want to change them but surely not that soon.

Choose the right builder

Choosing and working with the right builder makes a big difference in the construction of your dream home. They must allow you to meddle and guide you throughout the whole construction process.

Davolyn Constructions allows you to be on top of the chain. They are committed to giving you a stress-free process and lets you unveil the dream house you had imagined.

In order to achieve a beautiful view, unique house design, and sturdy foundation – builders working on sloping blocks must be innovative and creative. 

Why?

This is because building on a sloping block can be problematic and difficult. Thus, it can become more expensive than a normal flat site, if you are not working with skilled and professional builders in Plainland and Gatton.

Here at Davolyn Construction, we take on these challenges at heart. Our years of experience in constructing in sloping blocks gives you the assurance that your home is built strong as you have dreamed of it.

But before you get excited on how we are going to build your dream house on a sloping block, here are some of the things you need to know about sloping blocks.

What is a sloping block?

Sloping block is a land characterised by slopes that can either be inclining or declining. They have uneven elevations making it hard to build a steady foundation on it, if and only if you don’t have the skills and knowledge. 

But why is it preferred by many homeowners? Here are some of the advantages that a sloping block can bring:

• Creative house design plus landscape gardens
• Breathtaking views
• Natural ventilation and drainage
• Natural lighting

With these benefits, who wouldn’t love the idea of building their dream home on a building block? The only problem is to find that right builder who can make your dream a reality. 

Things to consider before designing and construction

A skilled builder in Gatton or Plainland knows that the following has to be carefully planned to ensure a sturdy sloping block dream house:

Ground condition

A soil test must be performed by a geotechnical engineer in order to check the stability of the ground before construction. This can give you a go signal or make you think twice with your plans.

What will the soil test reveal?

If the soil has too much moisture in it, the moisture build-up can happen which can put pressure on the structure due to dampness. If there are rocks, then excavation will be needed – which is costly and tedious. 

Access

Analysing the access to a sloping block is significant to the construction’s success. This guarantees safe passage to pedestrians and construction vehicles to the site. It also allows you to decide where to face your home’s entries and driveway.

Topography

Topography analyses the contour and features of the block you chose to construct on. It also checks the natural formations around the block. This helps you calculate and solution the dangers and possibilities of soil erosion and landslides.

Analysis of the block

Site analysis is important in every kind of construction. Whether it’s on a flat site or sloping block. 

Site analysis for a sloping block can identify potential issues to encounter such as:

• Drainage corridors
• Access
• Degree and direction of the slope
• Potential views
• Natural features of the land

All of these are important factors before starting any construction on your sloping block. Thus, it is important to work with someone who has knowledge in land analysation. Talk to us. 

Extremity and direction of the slope

Some blocks have different types of slopes. Some slopes are going upward, while some are downward. Other blocks have slopes on each side. The extremity and direction of the slope allows the builders to picture out how to design your home that suits it. It also allows the builder to know how challenging and how costly the project can be. 

After considering the ground condition, access, etc. – here are the five things you need to do correctly to make sure that you’ll survive the curse of sloping blocks.

Five things to do to avoid the nightmare

 

1. Make the most out of the orientation

Work with your builder carefully and place your windows and doors at the appropriate place. Make sure to maximise your view and the natural light in your area.

2. Builder’s experience is necessary

Your builder’s experience with dealing sloping blocks is significant to the success of the project. Make sure they have enough of it before settling with them. Have a background check. Ask their previous clients with the sloping block homes about their experience with that builder.

3. Work on the foundation

Expert builders will know what type of foundation will suit your dream house and your sloping area. Need not to settle with the typical designs.

4. Find the hidden benefit of the slope

As you decide to go forward with your sloping block – better make sure to find any hidden benefit from it. Make sure to plan out your block carefully and thoughtfully to ensure that no space is left behind. List down the potential designs that the block can be used.

5. Rock = excavation

With sloping blocks, you are likely to face a rock. Make sure to eliminate any unneeded and costly excavation.

Does it need to be costly?

The gradient on the slope tells how challenging and costly your plan is. You should consider the direction of the slope to make sure which options are better. Be open and plan thoughtfully with your designers and builders. They can guide you on how you can achieve your dream house while reducing the cost of construction.

As doctors have different areas of specialisation, builders do too. In this article, we will show you the difference between a project builder and a custom builder because these two are often mistaken with each other. 

What are Project Builders?

Project builders follow a fixed design. Their clients come in bulk with very little adjustments allowed on the original design. As a result, even slight changes on the project could be expensive on the part of the owner as this can interrupt the mass building they are working on.

These builders are often commissioned to work on State Housing projects or mass produced real estate works.  

 

What are Custom Builders?

Custom builders have a wide range of unique and specially designed house layout. Often times, they even assign an architect to sit with so you can customise your house the way you like at a reasonable price. 

They choose small number of houses to construct on a yearly basis for them to offer a personalised and flexible services to their clients. Thus, their rates may be higher compared to project builders but it is most certainly the type of builder you would want to go to for the construction of your dream home. 

 

What are the Main Differences Between a Custom and Project Builder?

 

Here are the following major differences you need to know about project builders and custom builders:

 

Design and Layout

Project Builder: They can only offer a small amount of change and design. They have a general set of designs and layout and you’ll be charged extra for any desired changes.

 

Custom Builder: Works on your home ideas and builds a unique one according to your preference. With custom builders, you can choose specific designs and layouts for your home. 

 

Exclusions and Inclusions

Project Builder: They only offer typical or usual design (most of the time it looks the same with other houses) with elective changes – such as floor coverings, lights, driveway, and power points.. 

 

Custom Builder: Custom builders are here to help you build your dream house. They are into whatever you like. Whether you want your home with a lot of corners or you want it round. It’s on you. You just need to tell them.

 

Variations

Project Builder: Whilst you may very well save as much as 50% on your costs with a project builder, you have to be contented with the design and materials they are going to use on your house. You have very little power on what to tiles, roof product, and accessories to use on your house. 

 

Custom Builder: Although you may have higher costs with a custom builder, it generally depends on your choice of products. If you choose to incorporate expensive products to your house – then the price of your house will definitely be costlier. Ask for various options for them so they can help you work within your budget. 

 

Flexibility, options and customer service

Project Builder: You have limited choices for specifications level. You are just another number in their whole project. So they won’t be able to attend to you personally all the time.

This is the brutal fact. But this is also something you need to accept.

Custom Builder: You get what you want. You are in control. Since custom builders don’t do bulk projects, they can focus on you and even has time to get to know you better. This way, they can attend to all your specifications on your dream house. Also if you have a change of heart with the design of your house, it is okay with them.

 

Complexity

Project Builder: Uncomplex and easy design. Usually, project builders construct similar house designs. Doing a complex design can take up their time. 

Custom Builder: Construct the house the way you want it. They will incorporate every detail you’ll want in your house. Even if it gets complex, they’ll be able to do it for you.

 

Timeframe

Project Builder: They tend to be slower due to the volume of their project. There is a queuing moment. 

Custom Builder: They are in control of the timeframe. They will tell you when your house will start constructing and each client is managed individually. So any problems can be fixed immediately. This prevents delays in the construction.

 

Price

Project Builder: The price is already set before you choose your packages. Extra fees are also set for other inclusions. Typical packages don’t have landscaping, driveways, and floorings and you’ll have a limited set of accessories.

Custom Builder: Each project is quoted individually, depending on the specifications of the client. If you want to save your budget, then it’s best to tell them upfront about them. In this manner, they can give you several options to consider.

 

CONCLUSION

It is important to know what you want to achieve in your dream house before choosing a builder. Compare this with the list of advantages and disadvantages one can deliver. 

Things to Spot Before Hiring a Good Builder

Have you ever been disappointed before because of a late person in a meeting? Have you been fooled before of someone’s work quality? These things are inevitable stuff. We can’t always be sure that the person we are committing with something is true, but we can spot signs that can tell us if we have made the right choice – just like with your builder.

 

Finding a good builder to do the job can sometimes be exhausting. There was a pool of builders out there saying that they are greater than the others. But how can you really be sure that you are not going to waste time and money on the builder you will choose?

Here are some tips. 

1. Does he arrive on time? 

Punctuality is a good virtue. Being in time on a meeting or on a job shows a builder’s respect and dedication on it. Thus, a builder showing up on time at your doorstep is most likely to finish the work even before the deadline. 

This might be a small thing for others, but one good sign your builder will be dedicated is if he arrives on time. If the builder you are dealing with keeps on being late with lame excuses, then try to find someone else. 

 

2. Does he remove his shoes before entering your house?

On-site, builders are not fond of removing their safety shoes. So when it comes to residential projects, some builders bring that attitude in. Some would not consider the difference of the site from your house. 

So, if you see a builder removing his shoes without you telling him; it is another sign that he practices the virtue of RESPECT. It means he knows the difference between this project and that your house is a home, not a construction site. 

 

3. Does he give realistic expectations? 

Honesty is the best policy, right? A builder being honest with your expectations, budget, and ideas is a good choice. Don’t be mad if he disagrees with your unrealistic ideas, especially if it really is. He just don’t want you to expect something that is impossible. 

 

4. Does he have good recommendations from others? 

Do you know the line “Respect is earned”? That is true. A builder with a bad reputation will not have any many recommendations from past clients. But, the first thing you need to do is to ask if one of your friends know the builder. In this way, you can limit the time you spend looking for a good builder. 

5. Does the builder have a good online presence? 

This means looking for a builder with a brand. A builder who invest in improving his business reputation will have calling cards, a website, and building tools. If the builder invests in good quality tools and equipment, you can rest assured that he can deliver a great job.

 

6. Is he a man of ideas? 

No one wants to work with someone who has to be instructed with every single detail. So if the builder doesn’t share any of his ideas, then he may not the right pick. 

Look for a builder who tries to exchange ideas with you and doesn’t stay inside the box. Unless, you want someone who you can simply dictate. 

 

7. How busy is the builder?

A builder with a good reputation is sure to be popular. Thus, he will most likely have client’s all lined up. Just be a bit patient, because this is a good sign that you have found the right builder. 

But that doesn’t mean that he is too busy otherwise your project may be delayed. So, it is better to take time and sit with them to discuss their timeline of deliverables and if youre project can be squeezed into their schedule.  Hopefully these seven tips and signs to spot a good builder has helped you.

Risk management, dispute resolution, compliance with buildings’ standard codes, and future problems are checked through building inspections. It is conducted before, during and after the building is established.

But do you know who ensures that these are all met? Well you have guessed it right! It is your building design consultant that will carry these preliminary inspections to ensure it does pass all the compliances.

Why your building has to be inspected?

Buildings can be flawed with time. Thus a building inspection has to be done to see what is causing the problem. It will also check the possible solutions to solve the case. This is where a building design consultant is needed. They can help you analyse your structure’s condition. The inspection can be requested by businesses, government and private agencies.

But hiring a building design consultant is not only for old building and structures but also for new builds, especially if you want to ensure your structure will last for a long time.

How is this possible?

Building design consultants take different things into consideration when inspecting a building. Such things are social, economic, structural, and environmental elements.

Here are some of the benefits of working with a building design consultant for your establishment.

• They create strategic plans to prevent potential problems that may appear during the building construction process
• Consultants can check for future problems that may arise
• They can set preventive measures to ensure longer life of your structure
• They can help you establish a stronger structure that can stand nature occurrences
• They can give you a solution to your building’s present and future problems
• The building’s cost, durability, time, aesthetic, and function are laid out
• They can facilitate the building’s progress for you
• Consultants provide you with expert advice on the logistics of the building
• They can ensure the financial and environmental security of the construction process
• You can be sure that your building is accordingly to the building code of Australia

Planning to build your own home?

 

Whether you wanted to build your own home or renovate existing home, hiring a good builder is necessary.

When choosing a builder, getting some advice from family and friends who have hired one to make their home is a good start.

Aside from this, what other things do you need to consider in order to hire a good builder and be ready to sign that building contract? Let’s find out:

 

Legit or not?

To avoid making wrong decisions, it is important to know that your builder is legit. But how would you know? Here are the things you need to check:

 

• Licensed and insured. Choose a builder that is legit, registered and insured.  Hire someone that is legally permitted to be involved in the building industry. He should have Public Liability Insurance and Home Warranty Insurance. To be one step ahead, check the list of licensed and insured builders from your state’s relevant department of fair trading or consumer affairs.

 

• Skills and Experience. Always check whether that builder has the skills you need. If he has only limited experience in the building industry such as renovations and extensions, maybe he’s not the perfect one to hire.

 

• Portfolio and References. Check out their previous jobs and the homes they’ve built. Consulting an engineer and their most current clients can help you realize how efficient that builder is in the construction process.

 

How do I make sure I don’t get ripped off?

Building your own home would require you to spend money. Might as well do your homework.

Have some architect or building designer to help you create a tender package that contains the following:

• The scope of the work. Clearly, state the outline of the work needed by the builder especially if you will be contracting to a third-party tradesman for parts of the construction.

• The building plan. This includes engineering documents and soil tests. The building plan will help the builder understand what’s involved, what you want to achieve. Also, it will allow them to figure out the total costs of material and labour and the timeframe for completion.

• The buildings schedule. To avoid a cost blowout, clearly state the materials, fittings, and fixtures you prefer.

Through the tender package, the builder would know what the job requires and what you want to see in the finished project.

When builders give you an itemised quote, try to compare it with other licenced builders to check.

 

Do you know what they’re talking about?

You may not understand industry jargons and abbreviations that your builder uses.

It is important to ask and clarify what he is talking about or maybe check it yourself. Miscommunication is a big issue when dealing with a builder which is why a detailed tender package and building contract is important.

 

Never sign the building contract not unless you are ready.

Have some legal advice whenever signing a building contract to make sure that it is in your best interests.  Talk to a solicitor with building contract expertise.

Always consider the following:

• What warranties can they offer?
• The contract should contain the itemised list of quotes that you agreed.
• Make sure that you should be aware of any changes, may it be small or big changes, that may need during the construction.
• Construction start date, key construction pages and the completion date should be included.