Before starting your home building journey, it’s important to secure finance and understand your borrowing capacity so your budget is clear from the outset.

‍

This stage typically includes:

• Speaking with a bank or mortgage broker 
• Reviewing income, expenses and debts 
• Determining borrowing capacity 
• Obtaining loan pre-approval 

‍

Pre-approval helps define your budget and gives you confidence when selecting land and progressing through the build.

‍

Learn more in our guide to finance for building a new home.

‍

Your journey begins with selecting the right block.

‍

The land you choose will influence your home design, layout, orientation, and overall cost. Important factors to consider include:

• Location and lifestyle
• Block size and shape
• Slope and site conditions
• Sunlight and orientation
• Council requirements and covenants

‍

Choosing wisely ensures your home design works in harmony with your land.

‍

Learn more in our guide to choosing the right block of land.

Once your land is secured, the exciting design stage begins.

‍

You can select a standard floor plan or customise a design to suit your lifestyle. During this stage, you’ll consider:

• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Living spaces and layout flow
• Future family needs
• Natural light and orientation
• Energy efficiency and ventilation

‍

Designing with both present and future needs in mind ensures long-term comfort and functionality.

‍

Read more about designing your home.

Selecting a reputable builder is one of the most important decisions in the process.

• When researching builders, consider:
• Reputation and experience
• Licensing and insurance
• Structural guarantees
• Quality of workmanship
• Independent reviews and testimonials

‍

A strong builder relationship ensures clear communication and confidence throughout your journey.

‍

Learn our  top tips for choosing a builder.

After selecting your home and confirming details, you’ll pay your initial $4,000 deposit.

‍

This allows the planning process to begin, including:

• Site investigations
• BASIX assessment (NSW requirement)
• Preliminary planning
• Formal tender preparation

‍

This stage moves your project from concept to documentation.

‍

Read what happens after you pay your deposit.

‍

At contract signing:

• The balance of your 5% deposit is paid
• Final costs are confirmed
• Documentation is prepared for submission

‍

In NSW, approvals may include:

• Development Application (DA)
• Private certifier review
• Estate covenant approvals (if applicable)

‍

Timeframes can vary depending on the local council (LGA).

‍

This stage ensures your home meets all regulatory requirements before construction begins.

‍

Learn more about contract signing and approvals.

Colour selection is where your home’s style comes to life.

‍

This stage includes:

• Tiles (often selected first)
• Flooring
• Cabinetry
• Benchtops
• Paint colours
• Roofing
• Tapware and fixtures

‍

Some selections can influence construction details, such as shower drainage layouts or slab preparation, so finalising these early ensures accuracy in engineering and planning.

‍

Explore what happens during colour selection.

‍

Before construction begins:

• Council approval must be granted with a Construction Certificate supplied or have received a complying development certificate from a Private Certifier
• Your lender releases construction funds

‍

In NSW, this process ensures compliance with planning regulations and sustainability requirements such as BASIX.

‍

Once approved, your home is officially cleared to commence building.

‍

Learn about council approval and lender sign-off.

‍

With approvals complete, construction starts.

‍

Your home progresses through structured stages including:

‍

Site preparation:

• Slab
• Frame
• Roofing
• Cladding
• First fix
• Interior lining
• Lock-up
• Fixing
• Practical completion

‍

A dedicated Site Manager oversees the build, ensuring quality and coordination throughout.

‍

Read about what happens when construction begins.

‍

‍

When construction is complete, the home reaches Practical Completion.

‍

Before handover:

• You complete a final walk-through
• Any minor adjustments are noted and seen to 
• Final payment is made

‍

At handover, you receive:

• The keys to your new home
• Warranty documentation
• Guidance on home systems and maintenance
• Support information

‍

This is the exciting moment your home becomes officially yours.

‍

Learn more about practical completion and handover.

‍

After handover, your home enters the defects liability period:

• 13 weeks in NSW
• 12 months in QLD

‍

During this time, minor issues can be reported and addressed.

‍

Your home is also covered by:

• Statutory warranty protection (as per legislation)
• Perry Homes’ 20-year structural guarantee

‍

This provides long-term peace of mind and confidence in your investment.

‍

Read more about moving in and warranty support.

‍