Step by Step
Your Project, Stage by Stage
Project
How to Compare Quotes
Not all builders use the same terminology or words when they are providing a quote. Not all quotes are equal and it is important to make sure that you are comparing the same things when going through quotes from different builders.
Project
Do’s and don’ts of choosing a Builder
There are simple steps that you can take to ensure you choose the right builder. Follow our guide of do’s and don’t to make sure you make the right choice of builder.
Project
Due diligence - How to choose your Builder
Do you know what questions to ask your prospective builder? Do you know what research to carry out so that you can compare builders? How to do a license check? There are key steps that you can take to be well informed and comfortable in your choice of builder if you want to Build Like a Pro.
Project
Talk to Many, Choose One
The choice of builder will be the single most important decision you make in your project. In this section we will highlight why it is important to speak to a number of builders and look at the work of more than one builder.
Project
Your relationship with your builder
Many homeowners think that building or renovating a home is going to be a 'battle' or that the entire experience is going to be an endurance test. Nothing could be further from the truth if you do the right research, define your project and budget and find a builder who you have a collaborative relationship with.
Project
How to progress with your builder of choice
After you've compared quotes and carried out due diligence it will normally become clear what builder you want to work with. But choosing a builder is just one step. there are important questions to ask as to whether the builder can take on your work, what the timeframes will be, how quickly they can get to site etc. We will take you through the key steps required to make sure that you can progress with your builder of choice.
Builders & Tradies
Builders and Tradies
Not all builders use the same terminology or words when they are providing a quote. Not all quotes are equal and it is important to make sure that you are comparing the same things when going through quotes from different builders.
Project
Construction contracts
The construction contract will be a detailed and lengthy document with plans and specifications attached. The construction contract will set out the obligations of both you and the builder so it is essential that you understand what you are signing.
Project
Contracts Advice
Most construction contracts will be lengthy and detailed and may be overwhelming when you first get presented with it. We will highlight some common terms in a construction contract and things to look out for and understand before you sign your contract.
Project
Progress Claims
Progress claims or 'drawdowns' are the milestones throughout your project where the builder will get paid. It is important that you understand what these milestones are and what steps you need to take to make sure that your project progresses smoothly and without delays.
Project
Designers/Architects
If you are completing an architectural home then your architect may take on the role of project manager or superintendent. This is very different to other modes of building and we will highlight the key differences that you may experience if an architect or designer is involved.
Project
Plans
The builder will be unable to adequately quote without a set of plans. You may be surprised at how many plans there will be including electrical plans and elevation plans. We will demystify what your plans are saying so that you can speak to your builder like a pro.
Project
Specifications
Details matter and the specifications are the details of your build. A comprehensive specification should set out the materials that the builder is using for each item and may even include your colour selections. This is an important and essential step in your build process and we will take you through it.
Project
Constructions loans - why they are different?
Most project owners will need to obtain some sort of finance to complete their build. Did you know that the finance for construction projects is different to a standard mortgage. Learn the differences and know what to look out for when applying for finance.
Project
Pre-approval for your project.
You will need to know what finance you have access to before progressing too far with your builder. Pre-approval is an important step in any project and we will take you through the finance options and what to look out for when applying for construction finance.
Where To Start
How to Compare Quotes
Not all builders use the same terminology or words when they are providing a quote. Not all quotes are equal and it is important to make sure that you are comparing the same things when going through quotes from different builders.
Project
Defects
Defects are a part of any handover process. Is it worth getting a handover specialist to carry out an inspection for you or is it adequate to do a walkthrough with the builder. Not all defects are minor or easily fixed. Everything you need to know about defects.
Project
Disputes
Many disputes at handover are to do with defects. There are standards and tolerance guides that can assist you with these disputes. Informed owners avoid disputes and we will tell you what you need to know.
Project
Maintenance for investors
If you are building a property for investment purposes then you may have a strict maintenance schedule for your properties. Depreciation is also a consideration for investors and we will take you through the key steps that many investors put in place to maintain their properties and get maximum return after handover.
Project
Warranties and maintenance
In most states the builder will have to provide a defect liability period where they will come back and fix defects that may not have been seen at handover. There are structural warranties that may also apply. The owner will also have positive obligations to maintain the property and there may be inspections that are needed to maintain warranties.
Where To Start
How to Compare Quotes
Not all builders use the same terminology or words when they are providing a quote. Not all quotes are equal and it is important to make sure that you are comparing the same things when going through quotes from different builders.
Where To Start
How to Compare Quotes
Not all builders use the same terminology or words when they are providing a quote. Not all quotes are equal and it is important to make sure that you are comparing the same things when going through quotes from different builders.
Project
Access to your site
In most construction projects, you, the owner will have to ensure that the builder has safe access to the site. Is your site easy to access in a safe way or are there further steps you may need to take to ensure that your builder can get access to your land in order to build. Unsafe or difficult access to site may cost you more money so it is important to know your obligations.
Project
Location of your site
Location, location, location is not just a saying in property. The location of your land/site can have an impact on the length and complexity of your construction project.
Project
Safety on site
Safety on site is everyone’s responsibility. Even though you own the land you may have restricted access to the site throughout construction. It is important that you understand the safety obligations on site so that there are no injuries. Any incidents on site may result in investigations and delays so it is essential that you understand what not to do when it comes to site safety.
Where To Start
How to Compare Quotes
Not all builders use the same terminology or words when they are providing a quote. Not all quotes are equal and it is important to make sure that you are comparing the same things when going through quotes from different builders.
Under Construction
Commencement
Commencement is an exciting milestone in your build. It is also an important milestone in your contract so it is important to understand what 'commencement' under your contract is defined as. There may also be steps that you, the owner, need to take in order for your project to commence.
Under Construction
Communications
Your build project will take months and sometimes years. There will be communication with your builder throughout this time and no doubt you will have questions. Some construction contracts will set out the way that you need to communicate with your builder. There are many do’s and don’ts when communicating with your builder and we will highlight the important one.
Under Construction
Disputes
Nobody wants to be litigating for years over a build project, particularly if it is your home. Litigation can be time consuming and very expensive and should be used as a last resort. There are dozens of steps that can be taken before a dispute escalates. It is important to protect yourself with proper documentation and clear communication.
Under Construction
Handover/Practical Completion
Handover also known as practical completion is a huge milestone in your build. However you may be surprised at how many steps both you and the builder need to take in order for your project to be handed over to you. From inspections to certificates to insurance there are many obligations that flow from practical completion.
Under Construction
Progress Claims
Progress claims are milestones under the building contract when the builder will get paid. Your bank will want to know in advance what these milestones are and there may be paperwork for you to sign or steps that you must take at each milestone.
Under Construction
Progress Meetings/Inspections
As your project takes shape you will want to check the progress. There may be formal steps that you need to take to come onsite and check the progress of your build. We will highlight the best way to engage with your builder to get regular updates and check the progress of your project.
Under Construction
Time and Delays
Unfortunately building can be uncertain and affected by weather and outside forces such as shutdowns or industrial action. It may be that your building period needs to be extended by the builder through an Extension of Time. There are ways to protect yourself from lengthy delays and we will take you through them.
Under Construction
Variations
Do you want to make changes to the specifications throughout construction? It may not be as simple as sending your builder an email. There is a formal 'variation' process in every construction contract. Variations are the most litigated item when it comes to construction. Learn how to Build Like a Pro and avoid disputes.
Where To Start
How to Compare Quotes
Not all builders use the same terminology or words when they are providing a quote. Not all quotes are equal and it is important to make sure that you are comparing the same things when going through quotes from different builders.
Where To Start
Budget
Your builder will want to know what your estimated budget is. There is a big difference between a $500,000 build and a $2 million build. You will need to speak to your bank or broker quite early in the build process so that you know what your finance position is. Build Like a Pro will explain why construction finance is different to a normal mortgage and what to look out for when defining your project budget.
Where To Start
Define the Site
Do you already own a plot of land or are you in the early stages of researching land to buy? We will highlight the key features of your land that can increase build costs and what to look for when buying land for investment and land for your home. Ease of access to site will be one of the considerations that the builder looks at when quoting for your build and we will explain why.
Where To Start
Define your Plans
Before you start speaking to builders you will need a set of plans or at the very least some concept drawings so that the builder can ask questions. Learn the difference between project builders and custom builders and whether you need to speak to an architect or draftsperson.
Where To Start
Do’s and Don’ts
Building or renovating could be the most expensive item you ever have to negotiate. Learn from us the key "Do's and Don'ts" so that you can bring your job in on time and on budget. Avoid lengthy disputes by carrying out research into your builder and learn the key milestones in any construction job.
Where To Start
Plans and Specifications
Before getting a detailed quotation from your builder, you will need a detailed set of plans and specifications. We will highlight why a complete set of plans is important and explain exactly what a specification is and why it is a key contract document. Particularly if you are looking at fixed price contracts, the plans and specifications are a key step in your build process.
Where To Start
Where to start your Build
Not all builders use the same terminology or words when they are providing a quote. Not all quotes are equal and it is important to make sure that you are comparing the same things when going through quotes from different builders.
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All the skills, knowledge and tools to manage your building or renovation project like a pro.
Lvl 1, 888 Brunswick St, New Farm QLD 4005