4 Things to think about
No build is without its challenges, but the more prepared you, the less stressful the process will be. With all that you’re investing, don’t forget to invest a little time and be an active participant in the self-build process.

There are factors throughout the process that you’ll have no control over and there are factors that would be nice tocompletely hand over to others, but to stay on budget and as on-track as possible, you’ll need to be involved and prepared to make decisions. So, put on your hard-hat, don your work boots and begin with the end in mind by considering the following:

1. Location:

The location of the property may dictate a number of things, including restrictions on the type of building you can build, what building materials can/should be used, boundary and service restrictions, planning restrictions, etc that may affect aspects of the design or layout of the home. Also think about the location and orientation of the house on the plot. Are you looking to maximise the interior’s exposure to the sun? Are there views you want to take advantage of? A discussion with your architect can clear up any questions you may have, any potential pitfalls to your suggestions. S.he may even propose alternative options.

2. Schedule:

Your builder may give you a timeframe for the build, including a possible end-date. Bear in mind that a build schedule is fluid, realistically dictated by a number ofdifferent factors that maybe completely beyond anyone’s control, including material delays, weather disruptions and bureaucracy. The completion date is merely a guide and not set in stone so be realistic about time frames and expect delays.

3. Future-proof your Build:

You’ve decided to build your dream home and create a space that suits you and yours. However, dreams change, children grow up and move out and what works for you now may not work for you in 10 or 15 years’ time. Future-proof your build by incorporating design elements and colours that will have a wider appeal so that if/when you do decide to downsize in the future, you won’t need to do a complete renovation to satisfy the tastes of the current market.

It’s easier to inject affordable and changeable personality into a new home with colourful décor like throw-pillows, wall art and quirky decorations than having to use a couple of tins of primer to cover up that ill-conceived moss-green paint you used in the entrance hall.

4. Invest in Pest-Control Protection:

It doesn’t matter where you build your dream home in Australia, you’re going to need some form of pest-control protection; be it against termites, spiders, wasps, ants cockroaches or all of the above. Protect your new home by investing in comprehensive protection against infestations and invasions.

There will be many aspects of the self-build process where you have to put your trust in those who are the experts in their field but that doesn’t mean that you have to take a passive role. Be informed, ask the questions and be an active participant to facilitate a process that encourages communication and openness between you and the tradesto ensurean end product that isyour dream home.