What to look for in a house and land package
Building Advice, Recent News
TLDR:
A house and land package gives you the home you want on a block you love, all in one go. It’s all about choosing a package that fits your lifestyle and budget. Look for a location that suits the way you live, check what’s included, and be clear on any extras you may need. Explore available grants, compare builders, and always walk through a display home or virtual tour to get a feel for quality. Factor in things like utilities and fees, and make sure your builder has a solid track record.
Nail these basics, and you’ll find a Step 1 Homes package that’s designed for your life now and ready for your future.
Choosing a house and land package is an exciting way to lock in your dream home and the perfect block in one go. From location to inclusions and build quality, read on so you can make an informed choice that suits your lifestyle and your budget.
What is a House and Land package?
It’s when you secure the land and build a new home together (usually under two contracts). Buyers love it because it’s simple, clear, and offers room to personalise your home.
You’ll usually get:
- Upfront pricing: You’ll know your land + build cost early, before committing
- Design flexibility: Most packages will allow you to choose layouts, finishes and upgrades that suit your style.
- Convenience: You’ll be able to coordinate with a developer for the land and one builder for the home, streamlining the process.
While many packages include standard features like kitchens, bathrooms, and basic landscaping, extras such as driveways, fencing, premium appliances, or flooring may come at additional cost. Just be sure to check what’s included and what counts as an upgrade so you can budget properly.
Is it tailored to your lifestyle?
Not all house and land packages suit every buyer. Think about how you want to live and choose a location that matches. Before choosing a package, ask yourself:
- Proximity to amenities: Do you want to be near the beach, golf courses, parks, or public transport? Being close to what you value can improve your day-to-day lifestyle.
- Family-friendly features: Are playgrounds, green spaces, or kid-friendly areas important? These can impact your family’s experience and the neighbourhood vibe.
- Commute considerations: How long will it take to get to work, school, family, and friends? Convenience is key to making your new location enjoyable.
Future developments like new shops or schools can also boost long-term value.
Understand what’s included
House and land packages vary widely in inclusions. Understanding exactly what comes with your package ensures you don’t encounter unexpected costs:
- Standard inclusions: Some packages may include essentials like fencing, driveways, landscaping, carpets, and garages.
- Optional Extras: Kitchens, appliances, upgraded finishes, or additional features may come at extra cost. Clarify what’s included upfront.
- Budgeting for extras: Even if some items aren’t included, it’s wise to budget for them so there are no financial surprises.
Get clear on what’s included upfront so there are no surprises later.
Government grants and concessions
Many first home buyers and property investors can benefit from government incentives. Understanding these can save you a significant amount:
- Grants for new homes: These may be available for first home buyers
- Tax and stamp duty concessions: Reductions in taxes and stamp duty can decrease the overall cost of your purchase.
- Professional advice: Speak to experts or check government resources to ensure you don’t miss out on any entitlements.
Taking advantage of grants and concessions can make your house and land package more affordable and financially manageable.
Try before you buy
Visiting a display home and seeing a home in person or virtually gives you a better sense of quality and functionality:
- Explore layouts, finishes, and inclusions: Walking through a display home allows you to see how spaces flow and how the finishes look in real life. You’ll notice details that aren’t always visible in plans or brochures.
- Compare different builders and designs: Display homes let you assess the workmanship and quality of home designs side by side. This helps you make a more informed decision.
- Visualise your potential home and modifications: You can identify changes you might want, such as relocating power points, adjusting kitchen layouts, or upgrading fittings, before construction begins.
Physical or virtual tours are crucial in understanding what your finished home will feel like.
Check the builder’s experience
A builder’s track record can tell you a lot about reliability and quality:
- Completed homes: Ask to see examples of homes the builder has completed recently. This gives you a realistic idea of their craftsmanship.
- Talk to past homeowners: Speaking directly with previous clients allows you to gauge their satisfaction and the builder’s ability to meet expectations.
- Specialisations: Some builders focus on certain home types or designs, so ensure their experience aligns with the home you want.
Choosing an experienced builder minimises risks and ensures your home is built to a high standard. Step 1 Homes is part of the Plunkett Homes family, a name WA has trusted for over 120 years. You get the same proven craftsmanship, backed by a dedicated team who’ll guide you through every step of your first home journey.
Factor in additional costs
There are a few things outside the package price to plan for:
- Taxes and fees: Stamp duty, registration fees, legal fees, and other charges
- Utility connections: Power, water, gas, and internet setup costs
- Ongoing land maintenance: Keeping your block clear and tidy may be your responsibility, with fines possible if standards aren’t met.
A solicitor can help you understand the fine print and protect your investment.
Key takeaway
Choosing the right house and land package isn’t just about the best price; it’s about lifestyle, quality, and long-term value. When you understand the inclusions, location, builder experience and available grants, you’ll be in the perfect position to choose a home that feels right from day one.
Ready to explore house and land options built around your lifestyle? See what’s possible with Step 1 Homes. We’re here to help you find the perfect fit.
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