When you're comparing quotes to build a new home, it's easy to focus on the headline price. But the number on the front page doesn't always tell the full story. Many builders tuck important costs away in their inclusions and exclusions, and site costs are one of the biggest culprits.
What are site costs?
Site costs cover the work needed to get your block ready to build on. This can include excavation, retaining walls, rock removal, drainage, connecting services and dealing with slope or soil conditions. Every block is different, which is exactly why these costs can vary so much from one home to the next.
The problem is that some builders give a low estimate up front, or leave site costs out of the quote entirely. Once construction starts, the real figure appears, and homeowners are left scrambling to find thousands of dollars they never planned for.
Why we price every site ourselves
We believe in being honest and upfront from day one. Rather than relying on a generic allowance, our builder personally inspects and prices the site costs for every home we build.
With years of hands-on experience in the trade, he can walk onto a block and get the costs very close to the final figure. That means the price you see at the start is a price you can actually plan around.
What this means for you
Accurate site costs give you real peace of mind. You can:
- Set a realistic budget with your lender from the beginning
- Compare builder quotes on an even playing field
- Avoid stressful surprise bills once building is underway
- Make confident decisions about upgrades and inclusions
Building a home is a big financial commitment. You deserve to know where your money is going before you sign, not after the slab is poured.
Ask the right questions
When you're reviewing a quote from any builder, ask who priced the site costs, whether they inspected the block in person, and what is excluded. A builder who is confident in their numbers will be happy to walk you through them.
Talk to us about your block
If you're planning to build in Canberra and want a clear, honest picture of your costs, we'd love to hear from you. Get in touch with our team today and let's talk about your block.
