Home Builder Finder

Prestart

Home Builder Finder

The pre-start meeting is a consultation between you and your builder, typically held after the initial contract is signed and before construction begins. This is an exciting step and is the stage where you will finalise all the interior and exterior selections for your home.

Key Areas Discussed at Pre-Start:

  • While the general layout of your home is typically finalised at the contract stage, minor adjustments to internal features such as moving electrical outlets, doors, or light fittings can be made at pre-start.

  • Structural changes (like moving walls) are usually not allowed or limited at this stage as they might need to be submitted for approval by your local shire.

  • If structural changes are permitted, they will likely come with a variation cost. It is encouraged to have all structural changes completed at the design stages.
  • You’ll review the electrical layout of your home, deciding on the placement of power points, light switches, lighting fixtures, and data points such as internet and TV connections.

  • Consider your future needs for electrical outlets in key areas like the kitchen, living rooms, and bedrooms. For example, the heights of power points for fridges or TVs being hung on the wall.
  • The location of plumbing fixtures like sinks, toilets, and shower heads will be confirmed, and you’ll choose your preferred fittings such as tap styles, basins, and bath options.

  • The builder will guide you through standard inclusions, but you can opt for upgrades, such as high-end fixtures, depending on your budget.
  • You will select flooring materials like tiles, carpets, or hardwood and wall finishes such as paint colours if you have painting included in your contract.

  • Consider how these choices will impact the aesthetics and practicality of your home. For instance, durable flooring like tiles may be better for high-traffic areas, while carpets add warmth to bedrooms.
  • Choices for kitchen, bathroom, and laundry cabinetry, as well as benchtop materials are made at pre-start. You’ll choose colours, styles, and finishes for cupboards, drawers, and splashbacks.

  • You may also decide on internal shelving, soft-close mechanisms, and additional storage options.
  • You will select the style of your internal and external doors and the type of windows. This will include the hardware such as handles and locks.

  • There are many options when it comes to external windows and doors with most builders offering a vast range of aluminium options depending on budget.
  • The pre-start meeting covers the external appearance of your home, including brick or render choices, roof materials and external paint colours.

  • These decisions impact not only the look of your home but also its durability and maintenance requirements.
Do Your Research
  • Before your pre-start meeting, research design ideas and materials. Visit showrooms and display homes to get a feel for different styles and options.

  • Create a mood board or list of preferences for colour schemes, fixtures, and materials. Bring samples or inspiration images to help communicate your vision.

  • Understand the design requirements for the area you are building. You don’t want to be disappointed if a certain colour or material is not able to be used in that estate.

  • Most builders will either have a showroom of their own or a list of suppliers that you can visit to view the builder’s range and get an understanding of upgrade costs.
Understand Your Budget
  • Set a clear budget for any upgrades or changes you want to make during pre-start. Builders will offer a list of standard inclusions, and any additional features may come at an extra cost.

  • Have a contingency in your budget for unexpected expenses, especially if certain design decisions result in higher costs.

  • Most builders require pre-start costs to be paid for on the day. Other builders do allow a payment plan option, so it is important to understand what is available to you prior to making any changes.
Ask Questions
  • Don’t be afraid to ask your builder questions during pre-start. Clarify any costs, product warranties, or timelines, especially if you’re considering upgrades or modifications to the original design.

  • Understand the impact of your decisions on construction timelines. Some changes might cause delays if they require additional approvals or custom materials.
Review and Double-Check
  • After the pre-start meeting, review the final selections carefully to ensure everything matches your expectations. Confirm all details, from colours to materials and appliance brands, to avoid misunderstandings later in the process.
Final Cost Adjustments
  • Following pre-start, your builder will provide an updated variation list that outlines any additional costs based on the upgrades and changes you’ve made. Review this carefully and ensure it aligns with your budget.
Final Approvals and Construction
  • Once everything is agreed upon and the final costs are settled, the building plans are updated with your selections. The builder will then submit these plans for final approval (if needed) and commence construction.
Pre-Construction
Construction Process