The 'How to' of House

Lifestyle Considerations

Here are some questions to consider as you research and design your new home. 

• Do you work from home?
• What lifestyle do you lead?
• What are your kitchen requirements?
• How many children do you have now, versus in a few years from now?
• Are parents or relatives coming to live with you?
• How many cars will you have?
• What storage do you need? Never underestimate your storage needs.

Choosing Your Building Company

Choosing a building company is a very important part of the process. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

• Research the internet to see the residential building companies.
• Look at bonuses you are getting such as high ceilings and wooden floorboards (and importantly what you aren’t getting). 
• Do you want to go with a small private builder, versus a large company?
• Do you want to get value from a project builder?
• Is there a display village you can visit in order to see the floorplan you like?
• Do you feel you will be able to build a good rapport with the representative who will be guiding you through the process?
• Have you read the terms and conditions, so you know how much it costs to make amendments to plans?

Timing of Build

It's important to consider the time it will take to move through the house building process. Factors include:

• Are you building over Christmas or winter periods?
• What is the current demand for brickies and other construction trades? Will this lead to delays?
• What type of frame does the build require?
• What are the indirect costs of a delayed build?
• Are there any supply chain isses with steel and other materials?

The timing of the build is a question for the building company you choose. Please keep in mind that in many instances there may be circumstances out of the building company's control, so patience and a positive outlook is certainly appreciated.

House Frames 

There are many decisions that will need to be made as you design your house. In terms of house frames, these include:

• Double brick is the most common build in Perth.
• Brick veneer (internal framework and external brick) allows the house build to progress quicker because the internal frame can support the roof. This is more common in Sydney and Melbourne.
• Reverse brick veneer, which in terms of thermal heating is superior to both of the above
• Timber frame
• Steel frame 

Windows

There are many choices available when it comes to windows, so it depends on your specific circustances, your budget and what you are trying to achieve with your build. For example, in some locations you will need to consider accoustics if you are close to main road or airport. The Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) of your property or the distance you are from the coastline may also mean you require a certain window type.

Window types include: awning, bay, sliding, hopper, casement, skylight, storm, double and triple glazing. The choices you make will be determined by your circumstances, your budget and what you are trying to achieve with your build. 

Ancilliary Accommodation

Ancilliary accommodation (also known as a granny flat) is something that would need to be planned in advance of the build in most instances. 

Current regulations state that the ancilliary accommodation can only be placed on blocks that are at least 450 m2 in size. 

The maximum size for the ancilliary accommodation should be 70 m2.