Expert Advice for Your Home Building Journey

Discover actionable tips, insider knowledge, and unique insights inspired by our Home Building Hub podcast.

Site Cleaning Nightmares: What You Must Know Before Booking a Site Clean

24th March 2025




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Legal & Contracts Sustainability & Energy Efficiency News & Industry Insights




Discover the hidden challenges of site cleaning before construction begins. This article explores who is responsible for clearing land, common mistakes to avoid, and why cheap site cleaning can lead to costly delays.



Pool Trends 2025: Expert Insights with Walt Collins from Pool Spa Life Australia

17th March 2025




Finance & Budgeting Design & Trends Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Smart Home & Tech




This article explores the top pool trends for 2025, featuring insights from Walt Collins of Pool Spa Life Australia. It covers the rise of white pools, smart automation, mineral-based water systems, energy-efficient heating, and key considerations for new home buyers planning a pool.



10 Things to Consider if Planning for a Pool

10th March 2025




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Design & Trends During Construction Post-Construction Sustainability & Energy Efficiency




Thinking about adding a pool to your new home? In this article, we cover 10 key considerations, including location, easements, fencing, power supply, and installation timing. Don’t miss these crucial insights to avoid costly mistakes and plan the perfect pool!



The Secret to Choosing the Right Block (and Avoiding Costly Mistakes!)

3rd March 2025




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Legal & Contracts




This article explores the key factors to consider when choosing the right block of land for your new home, helping you avoid costly mistakes. It covers estate research, block evaluation, site costs, legal considerations, orientation and more.



Interest Rate Cut: What Does It Actually Mean and Where to From Here?

24th February 2025




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction News & Industry Insights




This article breaks down how the latest interest rate cut affects home buyers and investors, from lower repayments to increased borrowing power. Learn what it means for you and what steps to take next.



How to Compare Builders Quotes Properly

17th February 2025




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction




Learn how to properly compare builder quotes and avoid costly mistakes when building your new home. This guide breaks down base prices, site costs, and promotions, ensuring you make an informed decision based on value, not just price.



HIA Explained: What It Does & Why It Matters

10th February 2025




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Legal & Contracts Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Smart Home & Tech News & Industry Insights




Learn what the Housing Industry Association (HIA) does, common misconceptions, contract tips, and upcoming regulations affecting home buyers and builders in Australia.



Top 5 Mistakes New Home Buyers Make

3rd February 2025




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction First Home Buyer Investor Upsizing & Downsizing




Buying a new home is exciting, but many home buyers fall into common traps that can cost them time, money, and stress. In this episode, we break down the Top 5 Mistakes New Home Buyers Make—and how to avoid them.



2025 Interest Rate & Home Building Predictions

27th January 2025




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction News & Industry Insights




Discover key predictions for 2025 on interest rates, home prices, land supply, and builder stability in Australia.



Top 5 planning steps to take if building in 2025

16th December 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction




Planning to build a home in 2025? This article outlines the top five steps to prepare, from securing finance to taking action, ensuring a smooth and informed home-building journey.



How long does it REALLY take to build a new home?

9th December 2024




Pre-Construction During Construction Post-Construction Legal & Contracts




This article provides a detailed breakdown of the home building timeline, covering key factors affecting construction time, pre-site preparation, and tips for a smoother process, helping buyers plan effectively for their new home.



4 Must-Know Terms Before Choosing a Home Design

25th November 2024




Pre-Construction




Learn the four essential terms every Australian home buyer should know before selecting a home design, helping you navigate builder websites with confidence and clarity.



Colour appointment vs Pre-determined Colour palettes - which should you choose and why?

18th November 2024




Pre-Construction Design & Trends




Choosing between a colour appointment and a pre-determined colour palette is a crucial step in building a new home. This article explores the pros and cons of both options, helping Australian home buyers decide which approach suits their needs, budget, and lifestyle.



WARNING! New Gas connection fees are coming your way

11th November 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction During Construction Post-Construction Sustainability & Energy Efficiency News & Industry Insights




Learn about the upcoming gas connection fee increases in Victoria, set to take effect from January 1, 2025. This article breaks down the new charges, who is responsible for paying them, and other essential connection costs homeowners need to budget for.



If I cancel my build, will I get my deposit back?

4th November 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Design & Trends




This article explores whether home buyers can get their deposit back if they cancel their build, breaking down Preliminary Works Agreements (PWA) and the reasons why the preliminary fee is typically non-refundable. It provides key insights into builder costs, common misconceptions, and practical tips to avoid deposit-related issues.



Top 5 Reasons Why Hesitation is Costing You Thousands in Home Building

28th October 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction News & Industry Insights




In this article, we break down the top five reasons why delays in securing land, signing contracts, or seeking financial advice can lead to higher costs and lost opportunities. Learn how to make confident, informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.



Explained: Land Rebates vs Land Discounts

21st October 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Legal & Contracts News & Industry Insights




This article explains the key differences between land rebates and land discounts, highlighting their pros, cons, and impact on buyers and developers. It provides insights into which option may be best for home buyers, along with expert advice from the Home Building Hub Podcast.



Where to Find the Best Land Deals Right Now

7th October 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction News & Industry Insights




This article covers the best ways to find great land deals in Australia, the key mistakes to avoid, and how new home sales consultants can help buyers save time and money.



How to Care for Your Slab to Avoid Big Movement Problems

30th September 2024




Post-Construction




Learn how to care for your home's slab and prevent costly movement issues. This article covers common causes, warning signs, and practical maintenance tips to protect your foundation. Read now for expert insights from the Home Building Hub Podcast.



How to Determine Which Side Your Living Areas Should Be On

23rd September 2024




Pre-Construction Design & Trends Sustainability & Energy Efficiency




This article explains how to determine the ideal placement of living areas in a new home based on orientation. It covers the impact of sunlight, regional differences, and crossover placement while offering practical tips and common mistakes to avoid.



I've Built 8 Homes – Here’s My Advice to You

16th September 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction First Home Buyer Investor




This article dives into the experiences of Ben Stewart, who has built eight homes, sharing valuable lessons, mistakes to avoid, and expert tips for home buyers and investors. It also explores current market opportunities and strategies to maximise success in property investment.



Top 5 Cooling Options for Your New Home: From Cheapest to Most Expensive

2nd September 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Smart Home & Tech




This article explores the top five cooling options for new homes, ranked from the most affordable to the most expensive. It provides cost estimates, pros and cons, and key considerations to help home buyers choose the best cooling solution.



Top 10 Items to Do Later if You're on a Tight Budget

26th August 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Post-Construction




If you’re on a tight budget, this article covers 10 items buyers can delay to reduce upfront costs. It explores cost-saving opportunities like cooling systems, flooring, and appliances, with tips on managing future upgrades.



Global Investment Opportunities: Insights from Dubai with John Gilroy

19th August 2024




Design & Trends Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Smart Home & Tech News & Industry Insights




Explore global investment opportunities in Dubai with insights from John Gilroy, covering high returns, tax advantages, and Dubai’s ambitious plans for 2040.



Co-living: The Future of High Yield and Capital Growth?

12th August 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Investor Design & Trends News & Industry Insights




Learn how co-living offers a smart investment strategy, combining high rental yields with capital growth potential. This article explores the benefits, compliance, management tips, and how co-living can help alleviate Australia's rental crisis.



Top 5 Tips to Prepare for Your Colour Selection Appointment

5th August 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Design & Trends Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Smart Home & Tech




Discover the top five tips to prepare for your colour selection appointment when building a new home. This article covers everything from arranging a tour of the colour selection centre to budgeting, gathering design inspiration, and planning your electrical layout—ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience.



Are Fixed Site Costs REALLY Fixed?

29th July 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction During Construction Post-Construction Legal & Contracts First Home Buyer Investor Upsizing & Downsizing Design & Trends Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Smart Home & Tech News & Industry Insights




This article explores the reality behind "fixed site costs" in new home construction, highlighting scenarios where these costs may change and offering practical tips for home buyers to avoid unexpected expenses.



Land Buyers Beware: The True Cost of Cheap Land

22nd July 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction During Construction Post-Construction Legal & Contracts First Home Buyer Investor Upsizing & Downsizing Design & Trends Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Smart Home & Tech News & Industry Insights




This article uncovers the hidden costs of cheap land purchases, offering practical advice on evaluating site conditions, understanding engineering plans, and avoiding costly surprises when building a new home.



What Does "Turnkey" Really Mean in Home Building?

15th July 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Post-Construction




This article breaks down the true meaning of a "turnkey" home, highlighting what should be included, who benefits most, and what to watch out for when builders use the term misleadingly.



Top 3 Electrical Plan Errors You Don't Want to Make

8th July 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Design & Trends Sustainability & Energy Efficiency Smart Home & Tech




Discover the top three electrical plan mistakes homeowners make and how to avoid them. From PowerPoint placement to lighting and switch locations, this guide ensures your new home is both functional and future-proof.



Top 10 Tips for Building Interstate

1st July 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction




This article covers 10 essential tips for building interstate, from market research to legal and financial considerations, helping homebuyers and investors avoid costly mistakes.



Is It Safe to Build Right Now? A Look at the Australian Home Building Industry

24th June 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction News & Industry Insights




This article explores whether it’s safe to build a new home in Australia right now (2024), covering industry challenges, improvements in build times, builder stability, and land opportunities.



Insurance Premiums Are Going Up... Is It All Doom and Gloom?

17th June 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Legal & Contracts News & Industry Insights




This article breaks down the rise in Victorian home building insurance premiums, debunking media scare tactics and explaining its real impact on buyers.



Maximise Your Claims from Your Investment Property

10th June 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Investor




This article explores how property investors can maximise tax depreciation claims to save thousands of dollars annually. It covers quantity surveyor reports, scrapping benefits, and key strategies to reduce taxable income.



Biggest Mistake First Home Buyers Make

3rd June 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction First Home Buyer




This article explores the biggest mistake first home buyers make - overstretching their budget - and provides practical advice on how to avoid it. It encourages buyers to think like investors, start small, and take advantage of government incentives.



Top 5 Estate Covenants to Be Aware Of

20th May 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction




This article covers the top five estate covenants home buyers must know, including water connections, facade rules, roofing, and landscaping. Understanding these requirements helps avoid unexpected costs and ensures compliance when building in a new estate.



Market Update with OpenLot.com.au (May 2024)

6th May 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Design & Trends




This article provides a comprehensive market update based on insights from OpenLot.com.au, covering key trends in new home construction, buyer activity, and regulatory changes in 2024. It explores buyer confidence, incentives from developers, and new tools like OpenLot’s Buyer Demand Index and Open Display feature, helping home buyers make informed decisions.



Top 10 Reasons You Should Build New Instead of Buy Second Hand

29th April 2024




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Design & Trends Sustainability & Energy Efficiency




Discover the top 10 reasons why building new beats buying second hand. From stamp duty savings to modern design choices, this guide breaks it all down for Australian home buyers.



4 Steps to Getting the Best Building Quotes

22nd May 2023




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction




Discover how to get the best building quotes (and avoid costly mistakes) with four simple steps, including financial preparation, research, and expert consultation.



What is a House and Land Package? …and Are They Exclusive?

15th May 2023




Pre-Construction




This article explores house and land packages, detailing how they work, pricing factors, whether they are exclusive, and expert tips to help make informed decisions when selecting a package.



Should You Buy House or Land First? …And Why?

8th May 2023




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Legal & Contracts




Discover whether you should buy a house or land first when building your dream home. This guide explores budgeting, site costs, and expert tips to help you make the best decision.



Top Tips When Visiting Display Homes

1st May 2023




Finance & Budgeting Legal & Contracts Design & Trends




A practical guide for homebuyers to navigate display homes, ask the right questions, and make informed decisions.



Essential Insights from One of Australia’s Leading Finance Brokers

12th April 2023




Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction News & Industry Insights




Discover expert insights from one of Australia’s top finance brokers on construction loans, government grants, and navigating the home buying process with ease.