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HOME BUIILDERS SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE

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Building Across Melbourne

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The Stages of Building a Custom Home: A Client's Journey
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Author: Emily

Modern architect-designed home by Eltcon featuring a covered timber deck, outdoor living area and seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
Home RenovationLearnUncategorized
June 30, 20260 Comments

Choosing the Right Builder for an Architect-Designed Home

Designing your home is one of the most exciting stages of the journey.

You’ve invested time finding the right architect. You’ve worked through concepts, refined the design, and imagined what life will look like once it’s complete.

Now comes one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Choosing the builder.

Many homeowners naturally compare price, construction time and previous projects. While these are all important, they’re only part of the picture.

An architect-designed home requires a different approach to construction than a standard home. The builder you choose won’t simply follow a set of plans. They’ll influence how well the architect’s vision is brought to life.

So, what should you be looking for?

Choose a builder who understands architectural homes

Not every builder is suited to every project.

Architectural homes often involve complex detailing, challenging sites, bespoke materials and a level of craftsmanship that leaves very little room for compromise. Ask to see projects that are genuinely comparable to yours.

Have they built on steep sites? Worked with exposed structural steel? Delivered custom joinery, large glazing systems or intricate finishes? Do they understand the level of detail your architect is expecting?

Experience matters.

Collaboration is just as important as construction

The best projects are built on strong relationships. 

Your builder should work collaboratively with your architect, engineer, consultants and trades from the beginning. Construction isn’t simply about following drawings. Questions will arise, details will evolve and decisions will need to be made throughout the build.

A builder who communicates well helps maintain the integrity of the design while finding practical solutions when challenges arise.

Don't choose purely on price

It’s natural to compare quotes.

The challenge is that not every quote includes the same scope, allowances or assumptions. A lower price can sometimes reflect missing items, unrealistic allowances or construction methodologies that haven’t fully considered the complexity of the project.

Rather than asking, “Which quote is cheapest?”, ask: “Do I understand exactly what I’m getting?”

A detailed, transparent proposal often provides far greater confidence than simply choosing the lowest number.

Look beyond the photos

Beautiful finished homes are easy to showcase. Ask about the process behind them. How often will you receive updates?

Who will supervise the site? How are variations managed? How does the builder deal with unexpected site conditions?

The quality of communication during construction often has just as much impact on your experience as the finished home itself.

Financial stability matters

Building an architectural home is a significant investment, and many projects extend over 12 to 24 months.

It’s worth choosing a builder with a proven track record, established systems and a reputation for delivering projects successfully. You’re not simply appointing someone to build your home. You’re selecting a business that you’ll work closely with for many months.

Ask who you'll actually be working with

Sometimes the person presenting the proposal isn’t the person you’ll see once construction begins. Before making your decision, understand who will manage your project day to day.

Who can you call? Who attends site meetings? Who makes decisions?

A strong working relationship with the people delivering your home makes the entire experience more enjoyable.

Consider involving your builder earlier

One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to wait until your plans are complete before speaking with a builder.

In many cases, involving a builder during the design phase can provide valuable input around construction methodology, buildability, budgeting and sequencing before documentation is finalised.

Early collaboration often helps identify opportunities to simplify construction, avoid unnecessary costs and reduce surprises later in the project.

The right builder is more than a contractor

An architect creates the vision.

Your builder is responsible for bringing that vision to life. The right builder will respect the design, communicate openly, solve problems thoughtfully and work collaboratively with everyone involved to achieve the best possible outcome.

Choosing the right builder isn’t about finding the lowest price. It’s about finding the right partner for one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make.

Thinking about your next project?

If you’re planning an architect-designed home and would like to discuss your project before construction begins, we’d be pleased to have an obligation-free conversation with you and your architect. Even if you’re still early in the process, an experienced builder can often provide valuable insights that help shape a smoother build.

Request an Obligation-Free Conversation
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eltcon blog size photos Why The Early Stages Of A Build Matter (22)
Home RenovationLearnUncategorized
May 29, 20260 Comments

How Great Design Becomes a Great Home

Great homes rarely happen by accident.

Behind every well-considered custom home or renovation is a series of thoughtful decisions, conversations and problem-solving moments that happen long before construction begins.

Beautiful design is where it starts. But turning a great design into a great home takes something more. The kind of thinking that only comes when the right people are talking to each other early.

Design Is the Vision. Construction Is How It Comes to Life.

Every great home starts as an idea. A feeling, a set of intentions about how life should unfold inside it.

Architects think deeply about how to bring that idea into form. How natural light moves through the space. How rooms connect. How materials create warmth, texture and character. How a home supports the way people actually want to live.

Modern architect-designed home by Eltcon featuring a covered timber deck, outdoor living area and seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

A builder brings a different kind of thinking to the same vision. How will this detail come together on site? What structural considerations sit behind the design? Are there practical construction challenges worth resolving early? How will sequencing affect the overall build?

These are not questions about changing the vision. They are questions about how to bring it to life as successfully as possible, with fewer surprises, smoother progress, and an outcome that honours what was designed.

The details resolved before construction begins are the ones that shape everything that comes after.

Why Early Collaboration Matters

One of the things we enjoy most about custom homes and renovations is that no two projects are ever the same. Different sites. Different lifestyles. Different priorities. And particularly in renovations and extensions, existing homes have a way of revealing complexities once work begins

Levels are not always where you expect them to be. Existing structures can behave differently than drawings suggest, revealing surprises and challenges.  That is simply part of working with an existing home.

But early builder involvement brings clarity around what is possible, and how a project can move forward with genuine confidence.

Sometimes that means reviewing buildability. Sometimes it is sequencing. Sometimes it is having honest conversations early around materials, construction requirements or budget. The earlier those conversations happen, the more room there is to work through them well.

Protecting the Vision

There is sometimes a misconception that involving a builder early means compromise. In our experience, the opposite tends to be true. Thoughtful collaboration helps protect the things that matter most. The proportions, the detailing, the feeling of the spaces, the intent behind why something was designed that way in the first place.

When practical construction thinking is introduced early, there is far less need for reactive decisions later. For homeowners, that means greater confidence and fewer surprises. For architects and designers, it creates a stronger, cleaner pathway between what has been envisioned and what ultimately gets built.

Great Homes Are Built Together

The best custom homes are rarely shaped by one perspective alone. They happen when architects bring vision, builders bring construction thinking, and clients bring clarity around how they want to live, and when all three come together early enough to make a real difference.

That is what we work towards on every project. Not just building to a plan, but being part of the process that makes the plan worth building. Because great design matters. And great homes are what happen when that design is brought to life with the same level of care it took to create it.

Building with an architect or designer? See how Eltcon collaborates from the early stages

Explore Working With Architects & Designers
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What happens next
GeneralOur Processes
April 12, 20260 Comments

After Your Enquiry: What Happens Next

Starting a building or renovation project is a significant step.

You may already have plans, or you might still be working through ideas. Either way, once you’ve made an enquiry, the next question is usually the same:

What happens from here?

Now that you’ve reached out, the next step is straightforward.

We’ll review the details you’ve shared and come back to you to arrange an initial conversation.  We’ll chat about your project, where things currently sit, and what makes sense to focus on next.

You don’t need everything resolved to begin

Many people assume they need to have everything worked out before speaking with a builder.

Final plans.
A fixed budget.
A confirmed timeline.

In reality, very few projects start this way.

The early stage is about understanding where you are at, what you are trying to achieve, and what still needs to be clarified.

Where clarity comes from

Clarity develops as key elements of the project are worked through properly.

This includes the design, level of finish, structure, site conditions and selections that are still to be made. Each of these influences cost, buildability and timing.

When these are considered early, the project moves forward with far fewer unknowns.

How we approach the early stage

Our role is not to rush you toward construction, but to bring structure to the process.

That starts with understanding your project in context, then working alongside you and your design team to identify the key decisions that will shape it.

This allows cost, design and buildability to be considered together, rather than as separate steps.

Understanding cost movement

As a project develops, costs can evolve. This is often tied to decisions that are still being made, rather than something going wrong.

In some cases, projects may include allowances or mechanisms to manage changes in scope or materials.

What matters is that these are clearly understood early and managed consistently throughout the project.

What to expect from our first conversation

The first conversation is not about locking anything in.

It is about understanding your project and giving you a clearer sense of direction, including what stage you are at, what to prioritise next, and where key decisions sit.

You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting.

The early stage exists to create that clarity, so the right decisions can be made at the right time.

We look forward to talking with you soon.

Visit Our Projects
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Double height living area with tiled fireplace, timber flooring and large sliding glass doors opening to a deck.
Home RenovationLearnUncategorized
January 26, 20260 Comments

Why The Early Stages Of A Build Matter

When people first start thinking about a renovation or new build, the focus is often on outcomes. More space, better flow, and a home that supports how they want to live.

But where do you start?

The early stages of a renovation or custom home build is where the direction is set. This is when ideas are clarified, expectations begin to align, and the overall shape of the project starts to emerge. Nothing is locked in yet, but the groundwork is being laid.

For projects involving a higher level of complexity, spending time on this early thinking makes a meaningful difference to how the project unfolds.

1. Clarify What You Want To Change In Your Home

The early stage is where people work out what is not working in their current home.

For some, it is a lack of space or storage. For others, it might be a layout that no longer suits their lifestyle such as dark rooms that limit natural light, or living areas that feel disconnected. These issues are often present long before a renovation is considered, but not always clearly articulated.

Taking the time to identify what needs to change helps keep the project focused. It ensures the renovation or build responds to real needs rather than evolving into something that looks good on paper but does not solve the original problems.

Open plan living area with central tiled fireplace, high ceilings, timber flooring and large sliding glass doors opening to a deck and landscape.

2. Define What Success Looks Like

Before thinking about rooms, finishes, or features, the early stage helps define what a successful outcome actually means. This might include a home that functions better day to day, spaces that can adapt as children grow, improved flow between living areas, or a stronger connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Defining success early provides direction. It allows future decisions to be tested against clear goals rather than being made in isolation.

3. You Begin To Understand The Scale Of Change Required

Early thinking also helps people understand the scale of what they are considering.

There is a significant difference between making modest improvements, undertaking a substantial renovation, or transforming a home more extensively. Understanding where a project sits on this spectrum shapes expectations around time, complexity, disruption, and investment.

This clarity is particularly important for first time renovators, as it helps align ambition with what is realistically involved.

Bathroom vanity with terrazzo benchtop, fluted wall tiles, wall mounted basin and brushed brass tapware. Rear exterior of a home with covered timber deck, pitched roof and garden outlook.

4. Design Direction And Style Are Considered

Design does not begin with drawings. It begins with intent.

In the early stage, people start to consider the style of home they are drawn to and how new spaces should relate to what already exists. This may involve preferring a contemporary addition, respecting the character of an older home, or finding a balance between the two.

These preferences influence the level of detail, the complexity of construction, and the type of professionals best suited to the project. Having a sense of design direction early helps ensure more productive conversations when architects or designers are engaged.

5. Budget Understanding Develops Over Time, Not At The Start

At the early stage, most people do not know how much their project will cost. That is normal.

Without drawings, documentation, or a defined scope, it is not possible to accurately price a renovation or build. Online estimates, square metre rates, or comparisons with other projects rarely reflect the complexity of an individual home or site.

What happens at this stage instead is the beginning of budget awareness.

Kitchen with stone splashback, timber and white cabinetry, pendant lighting and island bench. Heritage overlay home

People start to recognise that cost is shaped by many factors, including the scale of change, the level of structural work involved, the design direction, and the quality of finish they are aiming for. This understanding does not come from setting a number early. It develops as the project becomes clearer and more information is available.

Trying to lock in the cost of a build too early often creates false confidence or unnecessary anxiety. Accepting that budget clarity emerges progressively helps people move forward with more realistic expectations and better decision making later.

This is why involving a builder in the design process can be valuable. It helps avoid falling in love with a design that sits outside what is realistically achievable within your budget to build.

6. Constraints Are Identified Early

Every site and existing home comes with limitations. The early stage is when people begin to uncover what those limitations might be.

This usually starts with simple checks rather than technical investigations. Looking at council planning information to understand zoning or overlays. Reviewing any existing plans or documentation for the home. Noting site access, slope, or proximity to boundaries. Observing how the existing structure is put together and where major changes may be more difficult.

Entry hallway with tiled flooring, timber front door, built in joinery and indoor plants. Dining area with timber table, large glass doors, timber flooring and natural light.

Early conversations with professionals can also help highlight potential constraints. While nothing is confirmed at this stage, experienced architects, designers, and builders can often flag areas that may influence what is possible or how complex the project could become.

Identifying constraints early does not mean solving them immediately. It helps shape realistic expectations and informs better decisions as the project progresses, reducing the likelihood of unexpected issues later.

7. You Are Better Prepared To Engage Professionals

By the time these early considerations have been explored, people are far better prepared to speak with architects, designers, and builders.

This does not mean having all the answers. It means having clarity around what you want to change, what success looks like, the scale of the project, the design direction you are drawn to, and the realities that may influence the build.

With this foundation in place, conversations become more focused and more productive.

The early stages of a build are not about committing to decisions. They are about understanding the project well enough to move forward with confidence.

When approached thoughtfully, this stage sets the foundation for a renovation or build that is well considered, well planned, and ultimately well delivered.

Watch The Series Here
Bathroom with full height terrazzo tiled shower, timber vanity, wall mounted basin and brass fixtures. Walk in robe with custom joinery, open shelving, brass handles and carpeted flooring.

As you move beyond the early thinking stage, you may begin considering whether to work with an architect or designer, or you may already have one in mind. At this point, the focus often shifts to building the right team to help turn ideas into a new home.

How the project is supported at this stage plays a significant role in how smoothly it progresses. Choosing the right team early can help avoid unnecessary rework, cost surprises, or pressure later in the process.

To support this next step, we have created an education series that walks through how to find the right builder, what to look for, and the questions worth asking before you engage anyone formally.

You can watch the series here:

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Heritage living space with herringbone floors and steel framed doors opening to the outdoor verandah at the Kew East project
LearnUncategorized
December 2, 20250 Comments

Six Things to Consider When Renovating a Home with a Heritage Overlay

Renovating a heritage home is a rewarding process, but it comes with additional responsibilities. When a project sits within a heritage overlay, it requires a measured approach that respects what is significant while allowing the home to function for contemporary living. These projects benefit from thoughtful planning and close collaboration between architects, builders and local council, to ensure the outcome remains true to the original character.

Below are six key considerations that guide a steady and informed renovation process under a heritage overlay.

1. Understand what the overlay is protecting

Every heritage overlay exists for a specific purpose. Reviewing the statement of significance early clarifies which elements must be retained and where there is flexibility. This sets the foundation for a design response that respects the home’s story and meets modern needs.

2. Identify the elements that matter

Certain features commonly contribute to a home’s heritage value. These may include the façade, roof, chimneys, windows, verandahs and selected interior details. Knowing what is considered significant helps guide design decisions before drawings progress too far.

Kitchen island with stone benchtop, timber joinery and steel framed doors in the background

3. Involve the right professionals early

Heritage renovations benefit from early alignment between architects, council, heritage consultants and builders. This collaboration helps shape the design, reduces planning delays and creates a clear pathway from concept to construction. Early input from the builder also assists with cost clarity and buildability.

Bathroom vanity with terrazzo benchtop, round basin and vertical tile splashback

4. Prepare for structural realities

Once works begin, older homes often reveal structural challenges that were not visible initially. These can include outdated framing, uneven floors or areas of concealed deterioration. Allowing for potential structural upgrades helps maintain momentum and minimises disruption during construction.

5. Allow extra time for approvals

Homes subject to heritage overlays usually require a more detailed planning process. Councils may request additional documentation before granting approval. Setting realistic timelines helps align expectations and keeps the project moving steadily.

Living area with leadlight windows, herringbone flooring and glass doors opening to the adjoining room

6. Balance original character with new work

Thoughtful heritage renovations maintain the defining elements of the home while integrating contemporary function. Material choices, proportions and detailing play an important role in ensuring new spaces feel cohesive and connected to the original era rather than competing with it.

Bringing heritage homes into the future

A well-planned heritage renovation respects the past while creating a liveable, enduring home for years to come. With clear communication, early collaboration and careful attention to the elements that matter, these projects achieve outcomes that honour both character and functionality.

Get In Touch With Us
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Eltcon_Lysterfield-60
GeneralHome RenovationLearn
October 28, 20250 Comments

What Value Management Really Means for Your Build

Every client starts a renovation or new home project with a vision of  how they want to live, how their spaces should feel, and what they want to achieve with their investment.

But between design ideas, budget expectations, and construction realities, even the most well-planned projects can lose alignment.

That’s where value management makes the difference.

At Eltcon, value management isn’t about cutting costs or stripping back design. It’s about working collaboratively with the client and architect to understand what matters most, where the greatest impact lies, and how to achieve it within the agreed investment.

What Is Value Management?

Value management is the process of making sure every design decision adds real value to the finished home. It brings the architect, builder, and client together early to balance design intent, cost, and buildability.

It’s not about cost-cutting or checking numbers at the end. It’s about open discussion during design, so everyone understands the impact of each choice and the best way to achieve the result within the agreed investment.

When It Happens And Who’s Involved

Value management works best when the builder is part of the conversation during design.

The architect focuses on ideas, proportion, and flow.
The builder provides insight into what’s practical, efficient, and cost-effective to build.
The client gains clarity about where their investment will make the most impact.

When everyone contributes early, decisions are based on a full understanding of both design and cost. That collaboration prevents rework later and ensures the finished home reflects the vision that started it.

How It Benefits The Client

For clients, value management removes uncertainty. It creates a clearer picture of how the design will come together and what it will take to achieve it.
It means:

  • Knowing how your budget is being spent and why
  • Understanding how design choices affect both cost and outcome
  • Avoiding surprises once construction begins
  • Seeing your architect’s design delivered as intended

It also builds trust. When the architect and builder are aligned, clients can make confident decisions knowing the team is working toward the same goal.

What It Looks Like In Practice

Value management is not a single meeting or a spreadsheet. It’s an ongoing process of refining and adjusting as the design develops.

During early design discussions, Eltcon often helps identify where design decisions can make the most impact. This might involve exploring layout efficiencies, reviewing construction methods that streamline delivery, or clarifying which design features will define the feel of the home. These conversations help guide investment where it adds the most long-term value.

The result is a design that’s buildable, beautiful, and financially sound — one that achieves balance rather than compromise.

Why It Works At Eltcon

Eltcon’s approach to value management is grounded in collaboration. We work directly with architects and clients throughout the design stage, providing clear cost insight and practical feedback drawn from years of building architectural homes.

This partnership ensures creative ideas are realised in a way that respects the client’s budget, schedule, and expectations. It’s a transparent, proactive process that delivers projects with clarity from concept to completion.

When design, cost, and construction are aligned from the start, every stage of the build runs more smoothly and the finished home reflects exactly what was intended.

View Our Projects
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Eltcon_team_63
GeneralHome RenovationLearn
September 18, 20250 Comments

Building A Home For Melbourne’s Weather

Melbourne’s climate is famously unpredictable, shifting from cold grey mornings to summer heatwaves. 

Add the demands of family life, muddy pets and our desire for an indoor–outdoor lifestyle, it is clear your home needs to handle it all. 

As custom home builders, Eltcon knows that smart build choices shape how your home performs all year. We work with your architect to bring great designs to life, tailored to Melbourne’s unique weather.

What happens next

Winter-Ready Construction

Melbourne’s winters are cold, with short daylight hours and frosty mornings. A well-built home can retain warmth and create comfort without relying solely on energy-hungry heating systems.

  • Underfloor heating in bathrooms ensures cold tiles do not shock your feet first thing in the morning. It is efficient, long-lasting, and spreads heat evenly.

     

  • Creating zones within the home allows you to heat only the spaces that are being used. Pocket doors and internal glass doors are an effective way to divide areas while still keeping natural light and an open feel to the layout.  

     

  • 7-star energy rating: All new homes (and renovated homes) in Victoria must now meet a 7-star energy rating under the updated National Construction Code. This makes insulation and glazing essential. Double glazing in particular helps hold warmth through winter, keeps homes cooler in summer, and reduces ongoing energy costs.

Summer Heat, Airflow and Outdoor Living

Melbourne’s summer heatwaves can be intense, with days where opening windows simply invites more hot air inside. Building for summer comfort means considering airflow and materials from the outset, while still supporting the indoor–outdoor lifestyle that so many Melbourne families enjoy.

  • Thermal mass materials such as brick or concrete can help absorb heat during the day and release it slowly as temperatures drop at night.

  • Ceiling height affects temperature control. Higher ceilings allow hot air to rise, keeping living spaces cooler, but they require more energy to heat in winter. A well-built home balances ceiling height with insulation and zoning to maintain comfort year-round.

  • Indoor–outdoor connections like large sliding or stacking doors can make summer entertaining seamless, but they need to be built with performance glass and proper sealing so your home stays cool when those doors are closed.

Practical Family Features

Melbourne’s lifestyle means homes need to handle a bit of chaos.

  • Sports season smarts: placing a laundry close to an external door makes it easy for kids and adults to come in, remove muddy gear, and get it straight into the washing machine. This keeps dirt and mess contained instead of being tracked through the house.
  • Durable flooring near entry points, particularly in high-traffic areas that can withstand both wet feet and bare feet.

Built for Melbourne

Your architect will design your home’s layout and features, and working with a builder during this process can help bring those ideas to life so the right building methods, materials, and finishes are in place so your home is not only beautiful, but also practical, comfortable and ready for whatever Melbourne’s climate delivers.

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What to Look For In a Builders Quote.
LearnUncategorized
June 24, 20250 Comments

What To Look For In A Builder’s Quote

By the time you’re reviewing a builder’s quote, you’ve already done the hard work. You’ve refined your plans, chosen your shortlist, and now you’re getting ready to make a serious decision.

However, not all quotes are created equal.

A well-prepared quote should give you more than just a price—it should offer clarity. It should help you understand exactly what’s included, where your budget is going, and how the builder approaches their work.

So, here is what to look out for:

1. Scope of Work

First off, start by checking the scope. Does the quote clearly outline what’s included—and just as importantly, what’s not?

A detailed scope ensures you’re not making assumptions and that you’re clear on what your builder is responsible for. It should include site preparation, materials, labour, specific inclusions, and any exclusions.

2. Itemised Cost Breakdown

Next, a transparent quote will break down costs for each component of the build. You should see individual pricing for site works, concrete, framing, windows, cabinetry, and so on.

If your quote only shows a single lump sum, ask for more detail. The breakdown helps you understand where your money is going—and allows you to make informed decisions if adjustments are needed.

What to Look for in a Builder's Quote | Eltcon

3. Materials & Allowances

This is where quotes can vary a lot. Some builders use allowances—placeholder values—for things like flooring, appliances or bathroom fixtures. That’s fine, as long as you understand what those allowances realistically cover.

However, a reputable builder will talk you through these and flag if an allowance is tight. They’ll also be upfront about the quality of materials proposed, and what alternatives exist if you’re trying to balance cost and performance.

What to Look for in a Builder's Quote | Eltcon

4. Communication Style

Even in writing, a quote tells you something about how a builder communicates. Is it clear and easy to follow? Is the language honest and practical? Have they made an effort to tailor it to your project?

You’ll be working together for months, maybe more. A well-structured quote is often a sign of a well-run project.

One way to gain an understanding of the builder is to look at their reviews. What do the reviews tell you about the builder? Look on both their website and their Google profile. You can read Eltcon’s Google reviews here. 

5. Insurances, Licensing & References

Make sure the builder holds current licenses and insurances for domestic building work in your state. Don’t be afraid to check their registration or ask for recent references—a quality builder will welcome it. You can perform a quick check by searching for the builder here. 

What to Look for in a Builder's Quote | Eltcon

The Bottom Line

A good quote helps you make a confident decision. It’s not about finding the cheapest option—it’s about knowing what you’re getting, how it will be delivered, and who you’re trusting with your home.

If you’re reviewing a builder’s quote and want a second opinion or just a clearer understanding of what to expect, we’re happy to talk it through.

Fill out our contact form here & someone from our team will be in touch!

What to Look for in a Builder's Quote | Eltcon
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How do you know if your quote is accurate?
LearnOur Processes
May 12, 20250 Comments

Eltcon’s Service Commitment

At Eltcon, we do things differently. Jared and Kyle, the faces behind Eltcon, are known for their friendly, honest, and hard-working approach to building. We believe in open conversations, genuine relationships, and a no-nonsense attitude – because building your forever home should be as enjoyable as living in it.

Here’s what you can expect when you build with Eltcon:

Customer Satisfaction, Every Time

Your happiness is our number one priority. We’re not satisfied until you are. From the first meeting to the final handover, we’re committed to making your building experience smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free.

Clear Communication at Every Stage

We keep you in the loop – always. You’ll know what’s happening at every stage of your project. Whether it’s good news, challenges, or opportunities for improvement, you’ll hear it straight from us. No surprises, no run-around-just honest updates and real conversations.

Professional Partners You Can Trust

We only work with professional, reliable trades and suppliers who share our values. Our partners are carefully selected for their skill, integrity, and commitment to quality. You can trust that everyone on your project is working to the highest standards.

Structural Warranty in Line with Victoria’s Building Guidelines

Your peace of mind is protected by a structural warranty that meets Victoria’s strict building regulations. For all residential projects over $16,000, you’re covered for:

  • 6 years for structural defects

  • 2 years for non-structural defects

This warranty covers up to $300,000 and ensures your home is built to last, in accordance with the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995 and the Building Act 1993.

Material Selection That Matches Your Expectations

We don’t cut corners. Every material we use is carefully chosen for its durability and suitability to your project. If required, we collaborate with you to select finishes and fixtures that reflect your vision and lifestyle. Understanding the importance of value, we’re always happy to discuss cost-effective alternatives that maintain our high standards, ensuring you get the best result without unnecessary expense.

Honest Conversations About Costs

We’re upfront about costs, savings, and potential overruns. If there’s a way to save you money without sacrificing quality, we’ll tell you. If something might cost more, you’ll hear it from us first. No hidden fees, no last-minute surprises.

 

Open & Transparent Pricing from Day One

From your first quote to your final invoice, you’ll see exactly where your money is going. Our pricing is clear, detailed, and transparent-so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

How Much Will It Cost to Build or Renovate?

Why Choose Eltcon?

With Eltcon, you get more than just a builder-you get a team that’s invested in your dream. Jared and Kyle are young, energetic, and genuinely care about every client. We’re here to guide you, support you, and make your building journey a positive experience from start to finish. Whether it’s a custom-built home, home renovation, or home extension, you can trust Eltcon.

 

Ready to build with confidence? Choose Eltcon-where honesty, quality, and your satisfaction are guaranteed.

Contact our team today to start the conversation.

 

Eltcon's guarantees

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2025 federal election impact on housing in Australia
Learn
April 23, 20250 Comments

What the 2025 Federal Election Means for Homeowners and Renovators

For the upcoming federal election on May 3rd 2025, housing is a key topic. With cost-of-living pressures, interest rates still a talking point, and housing affordability front and centre, many homeowners, renovators, and would-be buyers are keen to understand how policy decisions could shape the path ahead.

We have taken an apolitical look at the key housing policies from the major parties so you can make informed decisions. Continue reading if you are planning a renovation, considering building new, or just trying to understand the potential impact on the housing market in the months ahead.

Labor’s Housing Promises

Labor’s key focus is on improving access to housing through government-supported schemes:

  • Help to Buy Scheme: A shared equity initiative where the government co-purchases up to 40% of a new home or 30% of an existing home, reducing the deposit needed and avoiding mortgage insurance.
  • Housing Australia Future Fund: A $10 billion fund aimed at building 30,000 new social and affordable homes in five years.
  • Expanded First Home Guarantee: Continuing to allow first-home buyers to enter the market with as little as a 5% deposit.

You can read more about their policies here.

What this could mean for you: 

If you are looking to buy or build, particularly for the first time, Labor’s focus on affordability support might ease the entry point. 

The Coalition’s Housing Promises

The Coalition’s approach leans on tax incentives and superannuation access:

  • Super Home Buyer Scheme: Allowing first-home buyers to access up to $50,000 of their superannuation to buy a home.
  • Tax Deductible Interest on New Builds: First-time buyers of new homes (up to $650,000) may claim interest deductions for the first five years.
  • Infrastructure Boost: A proposed $5 billion fund to support enabling infrastructure and unlock land supply for up to 500,000 new homes.
  • 10-Year Construction Code Freeze: This initiative aims to ease cost pressures by halting changes to construction codes that would raise compliance expenses. By implementing a decade-long freeze, the plan could affect recently announced NCC (National Construction Code) updates, which were expected to increase the costs associated with building or renovating.

You can read more about their policies here.

What this could mean for you: 

If you are planning to build a new home, policies that aim to reduce costs and increase supply could open up opportunities. 

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The Greens’ Housing Promises

The Greens are proposing systemic change:

  • National Public Developer: A new government body tasked with building high-quality, affordable housing for renters and buyers.
  • Massive Public Housing Investment: Proposing 750,000 publicly owned homes built over 20 years.
  • Rent Controls and Vacancy Caps: Seeking to stabilise housing access and discourage speculation.

You can read more about their policies here.

What this could mean for you:

The Greens’ policies could shift housing market dynamics significantly over time.

In summary, housing is on the agenda this election. No matter which party forms government, there are likely to be policy changes. These changes will influence how we build, buy, and renovate our homes.

While most of these policies are still just proposals, understanding them now means you can make more informed choices moving forward.

And if you’re ready to take action—whether you’re building new, planning a renovation and addition or just wanting clarity on your options—we’re always here to talk through the process with you.

Have questions? 

Reach out to the team at Eltcon and let’s chat about what’s possible for your home.

Contact our team today to start the conversation.

 

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