The Best (and Worst) Approach When Enquiring with a Builder

4th December 2023

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Learn the best (and worst) ways to approach a builder when making an enquiry. This episode covers how to communicate effectively, what information to provide, and why being open and prepared can save you time and money. Essential listening for anyone starting their home building journey.

The Best (and Worst) Approach When Enquiring with a Builder

When it comes to building your dream home, your very first enquiry with a builder can set the tone for the entire process. Whether you're building for the first time or you’ve done it before, knowing how to approach that initial conversation is crucial. In this episode of the Home Building Hub podcast, Colin and Darren break down exactly what you should - and definitely should not - do when reaching out to a builder.

Why First Impressions Matter

Too often, buyers try to skip the conversation and rely solely on email. While that might seem easier, it actually slows the process down and increases the risk of miscommunication. Home building is complex and personal - not something that can be handled with a few back-and-forth emails.

Common Mistakes When Enquiring

Colin and Darren highlight some of the most common mistakes people make when making first contact:

• Email only communication - Building a house is too involved to do it all by email

• Leaving false or no phone number - Without a way to speak with you, a consultant can’t help

• Ignoring calls or texts - Consultants aren’t harassing you; they’re trying to help

• Refusing to give a budget - Withholding key info leads to wasted time and unsuitable quotes

• Coming in with a 'know-it-all' attitude - Being too closed off limits how much a consultant can (or will) help

What a Sales Consultant Actually Does

A builder’s consultant isn’t trying to sell you the most expensive home - they’re trying to find the best match for your lifestyle, land and budget. To do that, they need clear, honest information from you:

• Your budget (minimum and maximum if possible)

• Preferred house type (single/double storey, size, inclusions)

• Desired land location and lot size

• Must-haves vs nice-to-haves (theatre room, extra living areas, upgrades etc.)

Sales consultants often spend hours reviewing blocks, checking easements, and ensuring design compliance - but only if they believe you're genuinely ready and open to working together.

The Best Way to Enquire with a Builder

To get the most value from your first enquiry:

• Speak with a broker first - Understand your borrowing capacity before talking to a builder

• Provide real contact details - Allow for a short phone conversation to kick things off

• Be transparent and realistic about your budget

• Explain your priorities and preferences clearly

• Ask for help if you're unsure - It's okay to not know where to begin. Just say so.

Why Vulnerability Leads to Better Deals

Believe it or not, being open and upfront helps you stand out. Builders are more likely to share special offers or nomination lots with clients they feel are genuine and committed. Transparency builds trust.

Comparing Quotes? Do it Right.

If you’re weighing up builder quotes, don’t try to compare them line-by-line yourself. Share them with the builders and ask them to help you understand the differences:

• Are all site costs included?

• Is the same level of finish included?

• What’s missing or added?

Consultants can point out the true value and help you avoid nasty surprises.

Key Takeaways

• Email-only enquiries are inefficient and usually go nowhere

• A phone call builds trust and allows for quicker, better results

• Provide real details, a realistic budget, and your must-have features

• Be open to learning - even experienced buyers pick up something new

• Consultants want to help, but they need the right information to do so

Glossary of Terms

Nomination Lot: A block of land purchased by one party but transferred to another before settlement, often at below-market value.

Site Costs: The cost to prepare land for building, including excavation, connections, and foundations.

Inclusions: Items and finishes that are included in the quoted price, such as appliances, flooring, fixtures etc.

Progress Payments: Staged payments made to a builder as construction milestones are reached.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t know my budget yet? Start with a mortgage broker - they’ll help you understand your borrowing range.

Can I get a quote without giving my phone number? Technically yes, but you’re unlikely to get a detailed or accurate quote without a discussion.

What if I don’t know what suburb or house type I want yet? That’s fine - just be honest. A good consultant will help you narrow it down based on your capacity and lifestyle.

Listen to the full episode here: https://homebuildinghub.com.au/posts/ep-34/

About the Home Building Hub Podcast

The Home Building Hub podcast, hosted by industry experts Colin Bischof and Darren Brennan, is Australia’s premier resource for new home buyers. With weekly episodes featuring special guests, the podcast provides objective, high-quality insights into the home building process - completely free and without sales pitches. From understanding financing options to navigating the complexities of building a new home, each episode is packed with actionable advice and tips.

Explore more episodes at http://www.homebuildinghub.com.au and join our growing community of informed home buyers.

Disclaimer

Whilst we’re all about providing value to you, this article should not be considered as legal or financial advice. It contains general information only and is based on the content discussed during the podcast episode. This information is relevant to the episode’s release date and may not be applicable at the time of reading. Always seek independent professional advice tailored to your personal situation before making any legal or financial decisions.