How to find the right builder for you

Today, we’re focusing on a crucial step in the building process: engaging your preferred builder. When building a custom home or renovating for the first time, choosing a builder can be daunting.

This series of 6 short videos will provide some helpful advice, guiding you through the process of finding a builder for you. Click on the video above to watch them all.

1. Where do you start?
2. Build your Relationship
3. Understand your Builder’s Business
4. Portfolio Review
5. Quality and Price
6. When to Engage a builder

1. Look to your trusted networks

Start by writing down names of builders who have been recommended to you through friends, family, colleagues, neighbours, even your architect or designer. 

Do some online research, we suggest looking at Master Builders – there is a section where you can find a builder. You can filter by your area, by award winners and by what sort of project. To become members of these professional bodies, the company is subjected to a range of stringent checks to ensure that any builder listed is operating to the highest industry standards.

When looking online also look for reviews. This usually comes in the form of Google reviews which should appear when you type their name into Google. For example, this is the Eltcon Google listing, where you can read reviews directly from our clients.

2.Build a relationship

Meeting potential builders face to face is crucial. You want to confirm in those initial meetings whether a good working relationship can be established. Checking whether your personalities can work well together is just as important as finding a builder that can deliver a high quality home. When building a custom home, the build is unique so it is important to choose a builder who is approachable and adept at problem-solving. A builder who communicates clearly and frequently can help navigate any challenges smoothly.

3. Understand their company structure

Take the time and ask questions to understand the builder’s company structure and how they will manage your project. Knowing who will be responsible for various aspects of the build ensures clear communication and accountability throughout the process. This includes understanding:

• who will be your primary contact
• who will be onsite
• how are decisions made, and 
• how do they manage issues that arise. 

A well-structured company with clear roles and responsibilities is more likely to deliver a successful project.

4. Review Their Previous Work

Ask to see examples of their previous work. This provides insight into the quality of their craftsmanship and their ability to deliver on promises. Client testimonials and portfolio reviews can offer a real sense of what you can expect. Google reviews (mentioned above) are a good place to start. In addition, if they have been awarded or nominated for any awards, the awards body website – such as HIA or Masterbuilders – will often have judges comments available to read. This will give you a good sense as to the build quality you can expect. 

Seeing completed projects similar to what you envision can also inspire confidence that the builder has the experience and skill set needed for your custom home.

5. Quality and Price

It’s important to note that in the custom home building space, comparing builders solely on price can be challenging. The cheapest option isn’t always the best.

Establishing a relationship that allows you and your builder to value manage the project together is essential.  We recommend looking for builders who are transparent about costs, offer detailed contracts, and have a reputation for delivering high-quality work on time and within budget.  Working together to achieve your new home for your future lifestyle is the shared goal.

Lastly, Engage Your Builder Early!

After you have gone through all the steps above, often the next question is “when should I engage the builder on my project?”. 

We always recommend engaging your chosen builder as early as possible. This might even mean before any plans are drawn up by your architect or designer. 

Why do we recommend this? 

Because early engagement helps manage budget expectations and aligns your vision with the builder’s capabilities.

Builders have the best understanding of current material costs (you would not believe how much materials have changed in price over the past few years!) and can work with your architect or designer to create plans that are matched to your budget. 

 

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your home-building experience is both successful and enjoyable. Stay tuned for more tips and insights in our series on building your perfect home!

Watch the video playlist here

 

When embarking on the journey of creating your dream home, one of the most critical decisions you’ll face is selecting the right custom home builder. For new homeowners and first-time builders, understanding the different types of builders and their unique offerings is key to making an informed decision. Let’s explore the various builder categories and what they bring to the table.

1. Custom Home Builders

Custom home builders, like Eltcon, specialise in creating bespoke homes tailored to individual client specifications. Custom home builders can build new homes as well as undertake major renovations or extensions. This type of builder offers a highly personalised experience, working closely with clients to bring their unique vision to life. From the initial design phase to the final touches, custom home builders manage every aspect of the build. This ensures that each home is truly one-of-a-kind, reflecting the client’s personal style and preferences. No two homes are the same – view our projects to see the variety of designs and styles we have created.

Custom home builders are best suited for:

• Homeowners with a specific vision or unique requirements for their home.
• Those who value a high level of personalisation and direct involvement in the design and building process.
• Projects where quality and attention to detail are paramount.

2. Volume Builders

Volume builders, also known as production builders, operate on a larger scale, constructing multiple homes simultaneously, often within planned communities. These builders offer a selection of pre-designed floor plans and typically provide a more cost-effective solution due to economies of scale. While the level of customisation is limited compared to custom home builders, volume builders are an excellent choice for those looking for affordability and efficiency.

Volume home builders are best suited for:

• Homeowners looking for a quicker and more cost-effective building process.
• Those who are satisfied with choosing from a range of standardised designs.
• Projects where budget constraints are a significant consideration.

3. Renovation Builders

Renovation builders specialise in modifying existing structures, whether it’s a complete overhaul or a specific room update. They are experts in integrating new elements into older homes, ensuring that the additions are seamless and functional. This option is ideal for homeowners looking to update their current space without starting from scratch, preserving the original character of their home while enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Renovation builders are best suited for: 

• Homeowners who love their current location but need more space or updated amenities.
• Those looking to increase the value of their home through strategic renovations.
• Projects focused on modernising or expanding an existing home.

Eltcon also offers services in this category. We have completed a wide range of renovation and extension projects over the years. We take our expertise of custom home building and use this to create an extension or renovation that is unique to the client and also seamlessly blends any existing elements together.

4. Design & Build

Builders who offer a Design & Build service, managing both the design and construction phases under one roof. This approach can streamline the process, as clients work with a single entity from start to finish. An important aspect to consider here is the ownership of the plans. In many cases, the design & build firm retains ownership, meaning the plans cannot be used by another builder without additional permissions or costs.

Design & build builders are best suited for:

• Homeowners looking for a single point of contact.
• Homeowners who are not specific on the architect or designer they want to work with. 

It is important to understand which type of builder is right for you and your construction project.  Then you can identify the builders within this category that you will discuss your project with. 

Build your team, then build your home and the right team will ensure your project is a success.

For those who are looking to build or renovate their custom designed home in conjunction with a designer or architect, then we may be your ideal choice.

Book a time to chat with our team today!

Embarking on the journey of constructing your dream home with a skilled home builder in eastern Melbourne can transform a daunting process into an exhilarating experience. With a seasoned expert, you’ll navigate the intricate maze of decisions with ease, ensuring your home materializes just as you envisioned. Leveraging the wealth of knowledge accumulated from years of building homes, you’ll sidestep the usual obstacles, making your path to a new home smooth and straightforward.

By addressing these common home-build faux pas, you can:

• Save time
• Save money
• Reduce stress and
• Ensure a successful build

Below, we examine ten things to avoid when building a home and discover why our award-winning team of home builders at Eltcon is becoming one of the preferred home builders in South Eastern Melbourne.

1. Poor planning and research

A new home requires diligent research and planning to avoid costly mistakes. While a professional builder will know the ins and outs, like local building codes and zoning regulations, the more you arm yourself with knowledge, the better you can communicate and understand your builder’s parameters and limitations, helping to streamline the building process and ensure the desired outcome.

2. Ignoring budget constraints

Designing your dream home is a joyous occasion; however, it can be easy to get swept up in the excitement, only for your joy to turn to stress as your budget starts to stray. This is one of the most common mistakes homeowners make and can be one of the most stressful aspects of a custom build.

By establishing a good report and open communication with your builder, you can create a realistic budget that covers all expenses, including:

• Materials
• Labour
• Certificates
• Permits
• Contingencies

Property owners in South East Melbourne can trust our Eltcon building team.

With our expertise and commitment to realistic planning, we can help you optimise your budget, navigate your obligations, and ensure a smooth building process.

3. Overlooking energy efficiency in design

There is no one-size-fits-all for incorporating energy efficiency in property design. There are a wide range of factors that influence a home’s energy efficiency, including:

• Insulation tailored to local climates
• Window placement and energy performance
• Optimisation of natural airflow
• The energy rating of HVAC appliances
• Internal and external window covers
• And more
  By hiring an experienced local builder familiar with the climate, you can optimise your home’s energy efficiency. This can significantly influence energy costs and carbon emission contributions and potentially increase the market value of your home.

4. Neglecting natural light and ventilation

While contributing to energy efficiency, natural light and ventilation can also help optimise the quality of your home’s air and determine the general climate of your dwelling relative to the outside seasonal conditions.

You may optimise natural light and ventilation in your home’s design by choosing a more open floor plan and strategically placed double-glazed windows, for example. A professional builder can address this important factor in the design phase and ensure it’s incorporated into your budget.

5. Choosing poor quality materials

When you have a clear vision of your dream build, it can be tempting to sacrifice the quality of materials to achieve the desired aesthetic and function. However, this can come back to bite you long-term.

Selecting high-quality materials, fixtures, appliances and utilities that offer durability, longevity and performance while costing more upfront ensures years of trustworthy use and superior protection from outside elements.

6. Missing pre-construction inspections

Pre-construction meetings are crucial, as they help solidify plans and identify potential issues, such as:

• Soil stability
• Drainage issues
• Environmental hazards
• OH&S concerns
• Building timeline and trade conflicts

Investing in comprehensive site evaluations strengthens confidence, communication, and trust between all parties and helps ensure the project’s success.

7. Over or under-utilising space

Creating form and function is about balance. Avoid the trap of over-designing by having excessive square footage and unnecessary rooms and structures that inflate construction costs for minimal ROI.

However, you must also be cautious not to underutilise your space by neglecting areas that could serve practical use and enhance livability.

8. Overlooking future requirements

Ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus believed that change is the only constant in life. Therefore, it is important to consider your home’s evolving requirements during the design phase to ensure you can future-proof your property for potential family expansions, lifestyle changes, or assistance in older age.

If property owners have frank and open discussions about the future before consulting the builder, there is more time to let ideas evolve, and all parties can have a clearer view of what may be required before the design phase commences.

9. Not considering resale value

While you may not intend to sell your dream property, you never know what the future holds. While building something that suits your unique personality and lifestyle is important, it is also wise to consider your home’s resale value.

Trends and preferences in real estate change more regularly than ever, so avoid overly niche or polarising design features that may compromise your property’s appeal to buyers down the road.

10. Partnering with the wrong builder

This one is so important that it has been saved for last. Good rapport between the builder, property owner, and adjacent trade professionals is the main factor in ensuring a smooth and stress-free build.

Do your due diligence and partner with a reputable builder that has a proven track record for performance and customer service.

For the duration of the build, you, the builder and trade specialists will be in close contact, and it is essential to work together so that everyone is on the same page. Building good relationships can ensure good communication, effective project management, and precision execution which are all key factors in a successful build.

Consider Eltcon when looking for home builders in South East Melbourne. We build.

South East Melbourne is a great place for building a personalised sanctuary in a vibrant, diverse community. Our award-winning team of seasoned consultants, designers, and builders has built a reputation for a customer-first approach and excellence in custom home building.

If you are looking for a home builder in South East Melbourne, find out why more people are contacting our expert team of building specialists by calling 03 8201 7125 during regular business hours or by filling in our brief digital contact form online and one of our expert consultants can call you at your nearest convenience.

Thinking of Adding an Extension to Your Home? Here’s What You Need to Know!​

Are you contemplating expanding your living space, enhancing your home’s functionality, or increasing its value? Adding an extension is the best way to stay in the location you love and make space for your changing lifestyle.

Whether you’re envisioning a new kitchen, extra bedrooms, or a luxurious living area, here’s a guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.

Determine What You Are Trying To Achieve

Start by clearly outlining your objectives for the extension. Are you aiming to create more living space for your family, increase the value of your property for a forthcoming sale, or accommodate specific needs such as future proofing your home for retirement. Understanding your goals will shape the design and scope of your project.

Know Your Finances

It is important to have a clear understanding of the finances available to you. Building is a big investment and often as your building journey progresses, your original budget will need to be adjusted or tweaked to match the scope of work. Knowing how far you can comfortably stretch yourself will allow you to easily draw a line in the sand and not lead to undue stress in the future.

Legalities & Regulations

Before proceeding with your extension plans, familiarise yourself with local building codes, zoning regulations, and permit requirements. Ensure that your proposed design complies with all legal restrictions and obtain necessary approvals from local authorities. You can find out more information from the Victorian Building Authority here.

Choose the Right Builder

To avoid mistakes, budget blow-outs and disputes, invest time in finding the builder that will work for you. Create a short list of 5-8 builders that you have heard about or seen around the area. Read through their website, check out their Instagram and read their Google reviews. A builder who has built similar projects to what you want done is always a good place to start. In addition, you want a builder who values communication, delivers high-quality projects and is approachable and honest.

Synergy in Design

Engaging a builder in the design phase fosters synergy between architects and construction experts, leading to feasible, budget-friendly designs. This collaboration streamlines the process, minimizing costly redesigns and ensuring a smooth transition from concept to reality.

Engage Your Builder Early

For many, finding a builder is not something they consider until after design plans are drawn up. However, involving your builder in the early discussions with your architect or designer, will provide valuable input into costs and buildability, better ensuring that your final designs fit within your budget constraints.

Design Considerations

Work closely with an architect or designer and your builder to develop a set of plans that aligns with your vision, budget, and functional requirements. Consider factors such as:

1. • The architectural style of the extension and how it will blend with the existing home;
   • Where the natural light will come from;
   • How to maximise space such as innovative storage solutions, well thought out placement of power sockets and flexible design elements that adapt to your evolving needs over time.

Utilise Technology

Technology has allowed us to create smarter homes that are not only more cost-effective but also kinder to the environment. Consider solar panels, double glazing, how to optimise layout for heat retention, installation of automatic lighting and more.

Plan for Disruption

Recognise that home extensions inevitably involve some level of disruption to your daily life. It is important to have a conversation with your builder early on about the feasibility of living in the home while the extension is going on.

Future Proofing

Consider the long-term implications of your extension design and how it will accommodate your lifestyle needs as they evolve. Future-proofing your home ensures that your investment continues to deliver value and functionality for years to come.

By following these essential guidelines and working with trusted professionals like Eltcon, you can turn your dream of adding an extension into a reality that enhances your home’s comfort, functionality, and value for years to come.

Want to talk more about adding an extension? Chat with us today by contacting us here.

Understanding Your Construction Quote

Renovating your home can be an exciting and transformative experience, but one of the first questions that comes to mind is, “How much will it cost?” As you embark on this journey, you’ll encounter various types of quotes and cost structures from different builders, which can be quite confusing. In this email, we aim to demystify the renovation cost landscape by explaining the key concepts, such as fixed price quotes, cost plus quotes, ballpark estimates, square metre rates, and variations. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions and navigate the renovation process more effectively.

 

1. Fixed Price Quote:

A fixed price proposal, is where the builder offers a single, all-inclusive price for the entire renovation project. This price includes labour, materials, permits, and any other expenses necessary to complete the work. Fixed price quotes are often considered the most straightforward option as you have a clear and predetermined cost. This structure provides certainty and helps you stay within your budget. The main disadvantage of this approach is that there is often less flexibility over the project, as the client isn’t able to easily modify the scope or  design.   Also, builders may be more conservative in their estimates to minimise risk, especially given the increases in the costs of materials over the last few years.

 

2. Cost Plus Quote:

In contrast to a fixed price quote, a cost-plus quote is where the client agrees to pay the builders direct and indirect expenses for a construction project plus an additional fee representing the builder’s profit. The builder provides a thorough estimate of expenses upfront and then carefully documents and provides its records to the client. This approach offers transparency as you see exactly where your money is going. However, it can be less predictable than a fixed price quote because the final cost is contingent on the actual expenses, which can fluctuate depending on unforeseen circumstances or changes to the project scope. Cost plus quotes can be a good option if your project has a lot of unknown variables, but it’s essential to set a clear budget and monitor expenses closely.

 

3. Ballpark Estimate:

A ballpark estimate, also known as a rough estimate or budgetary estimate, is an initial cost projection provided by the builder before a detailed analysis of your project. It’s often a broad range of potential costs based on limited information. Ballpark estimates can be helpful for early planning and determining if your project is feasible within your budget. The figure you receive  is usually based on a combination of the size and difficulty of the project, past comparable projects that the builder has done and finally, this is the most important part, your estimate will be based on the level of quality that particular builder usually delivers.  This pricing can change significantly as the project progresses and more details become available. It’s essential to treat a ballpark estimate as a preliminary figure rather than a firm commitment.

 

4. Square Metre Rate:

The square metre rate, is a pricing structure where the builder charges a set amount per square metre of the area being renovated. This method provides a basic understanding of the cost based on the project’s size but doesn’t account for the specific elements and complexity of your renovation. While it can give you a rough idea of the expenses involved, it’s important to remember that this will change subject to quality of materials, unique features, or unexpected issues.

 

5. Variations:

Variations are changes or additions to the original scope that may incur extra costs. They can arise for various reasons, such as design alterations, unexpected structural issues, or upgrading materials. Understanding variations is crucial because they can impact your budget and timeline. It’s advisable to have a clear communication process with your builder regarding variations, including when they are applicable and how they will be managed. This ensures that you stay informed and have the opportunity to make decisions that align with your goals and budget.

 

When Is Each Pricing Structure Applicable?

• Fixed Price Quote: This structure is suitable for well-defined projects with clear specifications. It’s ideal when you want cost certainty and minimal financial surprises.
• Cost Plus Quote: Consider a cost plus quote when your project has significant unknowns or you desire transparency in expenses. Effective cost management and regular communication with the builder are essential.
• Ballpark Estimate: Use a ballpark estimate for early project planning and feasibility assessments. Keep in mind that the actual cost can vary significantly from this initial projection.
• Square Meter Rate: This pricing structure is appropriate for straightforward, relatively uniform projects where the cost is directly related to the area to be renovated. However, it will not account for unique project requirements.
• Variations: Variations can apply to any project but are particularly relevant when your renovation plan is flexible, or changes may occur due to evolving needs or unforeseen circumstances.

 

To navigate the renovation process effectively and make informed decisions, it’s important to:

• Clearly Define Your Goals: Have a well-defined vision of what you want to achieve with your renovation, including specific features, materials, and design preferences.
• Compare Quotes Correctly: When obtaining quotes from different reputable builders, ensure you are comparing “apples with apples” which includes taking into consideration their pricing structure, their competence and experience.
• Review in Detail: Scrutinise each quote to understand what is included, any exclusions, and the payment schedule. Don’t hesitate to ask questions for clarification.
• Plan for Contingencies: Set aside a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. A common practice is to allocate 10-15% of your budget for contingencies.
• Maintain Open Communication: Stay in close contact with your builder throughout the renovation process to address any changes or variations promptly.
• Legal and Documentation: Ensure that you have a well-drafted contract with your builder that outlines all terms and conditions, payment schedules, and dispute resolution procedures.

 

By understanding the different pricing structures, you can make informed choices that align with your renovation goals and budget. Remember that no two renovation projects are the same, and finding the right pricing structure for your unique project is key to a successful and stress-free renovation experience.

When comparing quotes it is important to understand what is and is not included in your proposal.

 

About Eltcon

The Eltcon quoting process is guided by our collaborative approach between our team,  the architect, and the client. This synergy is the driving force behind our ability to deliver intricate, custom home builds that perfectly align with our clients’ precise expectations.

Our commitment to quality and our careful attention to every detail ensure that your project will progress just as you envision it, following the agreed schedule, and completed to the highest quality possible. 

Renovation and extension projects require extra time, effort, and thorough scoping to ensure the accuracy of the final quote. The specific phase of design and documentation gathering plays a pivotal role in shaping our approach to quoting your project. For the most favourable results, we encourage clients to involve us right from the beginning of their design journey. This way, we can provide real-time cost insights that adapt to the evolving scope of your project, ensuring you make informed decisions at every step.

Here at Eltcon, we do have a policy of charging for our quotes, and we’d like to clarify the reasons behind this approach:

1. Quality Assurance: Charging for quotes helps us ensure that you receive a quote of the highest quality. Crafting the most precise estimate possible demands a significant investment of time, resources, and expertise.
2. Minimising Variations: A quality quote not only reflects our dedication to precision but also diminishes the risk of project variations arising later on. With a comprehensive understanding of the exact scope of work required, we can reduce the likelihood of unexpected changes during the project.

To provide you with an accurate and all-inclusive quote it is important to understand all inclusions. This takes effective planning, a significant amount of time and cost to prepare – factoring in different conditions and specifications. A quote presented by Eltcon will include a full investigation of the project which is especially important when undertaking a renovation project and an understanding of existing limitations may be present. 

If you have any specific questions or need further guidance on your renovation project, book in a time to chat. We’re here to assist you in making your renovation experience a smooth and enjoyable journey.

How To Have A Successful Building Experience

When getting started on the journey of building or renovating a home, everyone wants a superior build and an extraordinary experience.

Yet, it’s often the experience itself that shapes whether you’ll remember the process with delight or frustration.

So, how can you avoid a nightmare?

Fostering Trust and Effective Communication

The crux of an unforgettable building journey lies in nurturing a meaningful connection between the client and the builder. Involving your builder in the design phase ensures all parties are engaged from the outset and guarantees alignment and a shared understanding of the vision for the home.   Here are few tips to look out for:

Attentive Listening and Collaboration:

This is about the builder and designer genuinely comprehending your vision for your home. A professional builder should engage in quality conversations and pose insightful questions to understand your motivations and your lifestyle aspirations for your home.

Alignment of Core Values and Vision

Constructing a home takes place over an extended period of time and is a personal journey. Shared values between you and your builder lay the groundwork for a meaningful collaboration. Seek a builder who echoes your commitment to excellence, communication, professionalism, and family values. Their approach to design, craftsmanship, and customer service should align with yours.

Uncovering the Builder’s Drive:

A builder genuinely passionate about their craft brings dedication and enthusiasm to your project. Delve into their background, experience, and character. Understand the driving force behind their choice of profession and their determination to deliver exceptional outcomes. Their website often provides insights into these facets.

Proven Track Record

Seek tangible evidence of the builders proficiency and constructions. Look for testimonials, case studies, and active social media presence. A competent builder proudly showcases their accomplished work and boasts satisfied clients sharing their experiences.

It’s a straightforward approach

Invest time in getting to know each other! Right from the onset, both you and the builders should be actively engaged in the design phase. This initial stage provides an opportunity to understand each other’s methods, communication styles, and responses which offers insight into the viability of a collaborative project.

If you don’t feel the chemistry, don’t force a connection.