b'Avoid Skimping on Design Avoid Being UnrealisticFor a custom-built home, it is a sin to skimp on the designWith an increase of competition in the building fee. A builder can build you a great home, but functionalityindustry, many advertisers have taken to deceiving is something that comes through smart design, not yourfuture homeowners with incorrect pricing. builder. A well-designed house will improve livability for your family and add value to the property at resale.These advertisements are created with a minimum price accompanied by the full option home, and have A draftsperson, a building designer or an architect areconfused clients on what they can truly get for their the ideal people to engage in creating your house design.money. This results in disappointment from the There is ongoing debate as to which one is better and thehomeowner when they receive the builders quote, answer varies on a case-by-case basis. Fees will vary withand a hard conversation on what the client can the professions, with architects generally charging the most.actually afford. A good builder will always ask clients Once again, cost varies depending on scope and the valueto prepare two listsone with the essentials you are seeking.and one with the luxuries. It is much cheaper to correct a mistake on paper thanOften the expectations of a homeowner dont match during construction and having a 3D model created willwhat is achievable with their budget. It is in your eliminate most of the risk. However, it is almost impossiblebest interest to be honest with the builder when to build without variation during the process. This is whyexplaining to them how much money you have its important with your choice of builder to ensure theyavailable to invest in the project. are flexible and will work through any changes you wish to make as the project progresses.If the quote is too high, consider removing certain features of the house or whether extra space is Architects and designers are extremely talented innecessary. In our experience, it is far better to spend creating striking designs, but they often fail on meetingmoney on making a room feel right than to have client budgets. Its not uncommon for homeowners toa larger space that feels empty.engage an architect to receive a stylish designed house priced at twice their budget. If the client approaches the builder first, there is an increased chance of the design fitting within budget.Know What Your Builder is not IncludingEarly in the agreement you must check what you are responsible for and know what the financial and time impacts may be for these factors. Things you should look out for in this process are listed below. Removal of leftover soil from excavations mayFencing and gates are often omitted from contracts. be excluded from the contract. This process can be very costly.Site cleaning is a must for most diligent builders, Retaining walls are often excluded from the listhowever, can catch out the unwary client, resulting of builders responsibilities, which can leave youin a sizeable wastage and truck hire bill.underfunded with very little access to build the retaining wall.Landscaping is often an assumed inclusion for new Inclusions thought of as mandatory such as floorhomes, however, is important to check in your coverings, light fittings, bathroom accessories,contract. Having a contingency sum for landscaping paths and driveways are often forgotten. is a sensible decision.'