Pricing – the devil is in the details
When presented with a building proposal or contract, it’s important you understand exactly what is being included and what is not. DO NOT make any assumptions. The cost involved in building a house is substantial, and anything missed out can have a big impact on your bottom line.
Along with the structure and specifications of the house, we recommend you check the following items (but not limited to these) are being included. Some can be quite significant:
GST
Insurance during the build
Site works
Underground services
Consent fees
Landscaping
All related professional fees, such as architects and engineers
Watercare water meter and council contribution
Communicate with your builder to ensure nothing is overlooked. Ask lots of questions to ensure you fully understand every item and exactly what is included and what is not. For example, if you provide your own products or services for any facet of the build, such as putting in a swimming pool or sourcing your own wardrobe that is not through your builder, the builder cannot take any responsibility for arranging these, or for any associated delays or consents required – that will be up to you to arrange. Also, if your builder has not allowed for landscaping, get a quote to avoid surprises at the end.
For anything not included, get an indication of the cost and ensure you make a provision for it within your budget. And check your maths to make sure you’ve done it right.
At Maddren, we’re proud of our detailed and transparent contract because we understand it is the key to building a trusting relationship with our client. Prior to receiving your contract, our design and build consultant will spent hours going over the pricing with you, with a thorough discussion on each item down to the last detail. Maddren are a one stop shop, so unless requested otherwise by the client, our pricing includes everything you need from design to completion. Because the only surprises we like are the pleasant kind.
additional reading: PC sum and VO