
Building a house can be a daunting process, but with the right guidance, construction can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Western Australia has a reputation for idyllic landscapes, stunning coastlines and a laid-back lifestyle. It's no wonder that more and more people are choosing to build their dream homes in this part of Australia.
Whether you are building your first home or looking to upgrade, this quick guide will take you through the process of building a house in Western Australia.
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Talk to a Mortgage Broker
Before starting the process of finding a block of land or choosing a home design, you need to understand your financial situation.
This is where a mortgage broker can help you. They will assess your financial situation and help you understand how much you can afford to borrow.
A mortgage broker can also help you compare interest rates and find a loan that suits your needs.
Find Your Block of Land
When looking for a block of land, there are several factors to consider, such as location, size, and price. You need to find a block of land that meets your needs and is within your budget.
Once you have found a block of land that meets your requirements, you need to check if it's suitable for building. This includes checking the soil type, slope, and other factors that may affect the construction process. If you choose to work with a reputable home builder, they can help you with this process.
Choose a Home Design
The next step is to choose a home design that meets your needs and is within your budget. You can choose from a variety of predesigned homes, ranging from modern to traditional or you can start with a blank canvas and get a completely tailored design.
Make sure that the design you choose meets your requirements, such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces as well as your lifestyle and taste.
Importantly, ensure your design is a good fit for your block, and that you factor in environmental considerations, like solar orientation - i.e. which was is your home facing, where are the windows in relation to the sun in the morning, middle of the day and afternoon, for each season. Ideally you want the sun warming your living areas in the colder months.
Choose a Builder
Choosing the right home builder is essential for the success of your project. You need to choose a builder who is experienced, reliable and has a good reputation.
A good builder will help you through the entire building process, from obtaining the necessary permits through to completion. You can check the builder's reviews and previous work to assess their capabilities. Also consider awards and how long they have been around. There are a lot of builders who come and go, you ideally want one who has a good track record.
Signing the Building Contract
Once you have chosen a builder, it's time to sign the building contract.
The building contract outlines the terms of the construction, such as the approximate completion date, the cost of construction and the warranty period.
Make sure to read the contract carefully before signing and consult with your solicitor if necessary.
Monitor the Build through All Stages
It's essential to oversee the construction process to ensure that everything is going according to plan.
Regular communication with your builder is essential, and you should also visit the site when required. This will help you identify any potential issues and address them promptly with your Site Manager.
Complete the Handover
Once construction is complete, it's time to do the final inspection and complete the handover.
This is where you get the keys to your new home and sign the final documents. Make sure to inspect the property before signing the documents and ensure that everything is according to your expectations.
Most reputable builders will have a thorough handover process, to ensure you are 100% comfortable with your new home.
Summary
Building a house can be a time-consuming and challenging process, but by following this quick guide, you can make it a seamless process.
Start by understanding your financial situation and finding the right block of land.
Choose a home design that meets your needs, and find a builder that can deliver on your expectations. Ensure that you oversee the construction process, so everything goes according to your plan.
Finally, do the final inspection and complete the handover and enjoy living in your new dream home.