Everyone asks how long a house takes. The build is only half of it. Here’s what happens from our first chat to your slab, roughly how long each part takes in Perth, and what I do at every step.
5–6 months
Preconstruction: design, builder, agreement, finance (about two months), approvals and site prep.
6–10 months
The build itself, for a typical Perth home, depending on the design.
Typical timings only. Every job varies with the design, the block, approvals and the builder’s schedule.
Five steps to your slab
01
A quick chat
Your block (or where you want to buy), budget, must-haves, timing and where your finance is at.
What I do: tell you honestly what’s realistic and flag likely site costs before you fall for a design.
02
Designs that fit
A shortlist that suits your lot’s width, orientation and budget, from more than one builder.
What I do: narrow the field, and walk display homes with you so you know what’s standard and what’s an upgrade.
03
The quote, line by line
The base price is only part of it. Site works, retaining, the crossover, landscaping and provisional sums can move it a lot.
What I do: go through it with you and get anything missing put in writing.
04
Lock it in, then finance
A preliminary agreement holds your design and price while plans are drawn. Formal finance usually takes around two months.
What I do: make sure you know what the deposit buys, whether it’s refundable, and what happens if finance falls over.
05
Approvals and site prep, to your slab
Council and estate approvals, then site works. Once the slab is down, the builder’s construction team takes you through the build.
What I do: stay your point of contact through preconstruction, so things keep moving.
Then the build: slab to keys
Frame and roof. Walls up, roof on. The home starts to look like the plans.
Lock-up and services. Windows, doors, plumbing and electrical go in.
Fit-out and handover. Cabinets, tiling, paint, a final inspection, then your keys.
Renting while you build?
Budget rent for longer than you think, and get your finance moving early. It’s the step that most often holds things up.
Common questions
Does it cost me anything?
No. I’m paid a commission by the builder when you sign a building contract. You don’t pay me a fee.
Which builders do you work with?
A panel of established Perth builders. Once I know your block and brief, I’ll introduce the ones that suit you.
I don’t have land yet. Can you still help?
Yes. We can look at blocks you’re considering, or house-and-land options, and check a design fits before you buy.
Can I change a design?
Usually, within limits. It’s easiest and cheapest to decide early, before plans go to council.
My builder went broke mid-build. Can you help?
Yes. Some builders on my panel specialise in taking over and finishing stalled homes. Get in touch before you sign anything new.
