Frequently Asked Questions
Listening to our clients, understanding their concerns and helping them to better understand the building process is a big part of our customer service delivery. From our years of experience building and renovating homes for many different clients, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions.
What is the difference between a custom-home builder and a volume builder?
The family home will generally be the greatest investment you make in your lifetime. Not only is it a big financial commitment, it will also be an emotional commitment. As you plan your new home one of the first decisions you will make is to go with a smaller custom-home builder, or one of the big volume builders.
The main difference between the two is custom-home builders are generally small construction businesses who specialise in unique builds, with each home they build being a little different to the last. A custom-home builder can design and prepare plans based on your specific requirements and site, or build from plans provided by the client. They also have a higher standard of construction principles, giving a premium quality and finish. One of the benefits in choosing this type of builder is the flexibility and choice you have as you work collaboratively with your builder to design and select the fixtures and finishes you want.
Generally, when you work with a custom-home builder you work with the builder directly. He will assist you through all stages of the building project.
Volume builders operate by providing a range of standard designs they have in their library. They are generally not site specific, so don’t allow for layout flexibility. Usually, your choice of fixtures and fittings is limited.
| Custom Home Builder | Volume Builder | |
|---|---|---|
| Plans | Bring your own plans or work with your builder to design your own | Limited choice from a standard library |
| Layout | Prepared to your site requirements | Limited flexibility |
| Fixtures and fittings | Choose your own | Limited choice |
| Communication | Work directly with your builder | Talk to a salesperson |
What information do I need to provide to get a quote?
Before choosing a builder it is important to get a sense of how much the building works will cost. A good start is to request between three to five quotes from reputable builders. Any more than five quotes can lead to further confusion and prolong the comparison process. Ensure each builder receives the same information and you will be able to make a direct comparison and an informed decision on your building works.
The level of detail you provide to the builder will be the difference in getting a fixed price quote or estimate. The best way to get clear comparable quotes is to provide a complete tender package. A tender package is a complete set of plans and documents designed to tell the builder about the project and what he needs to build. A tender package should contain:
- House plans and diagrams
Clear and comprehensive plans that include floor layout, roof plans and elevations. - Engineering documents
These documents contain information about the structure of the home ensuring that the method of construction is sufficient to withhold local weather patterns, soil types, earth movements, etc. Specifically, footings design, suspended concrete slabs, steel beams, load bearing walls, concrete columns and retaining walls. - Soil report
A soil report is prepared by a licensed geotechnical engineer. This report details the earth conditions, which affect the building, and is needed by the engineer to design the foundation (footings, slab) of the building. - Specifications
This document should provide as much detail as possible on the materials, fittings and fixtures to be incorporated in the build. This includes the type and style of kitchen, benchtops (stone, laminate, marble), tiles, timber flooring (brush box, reengineered) and light fittings (down lights, pendants). All of this detailed information helps the builder give accurate costings for the materials required for a fixed price quote. This document is crucial in comparing quotes as one builder may prepare a quote based on budget fittings, while another may base his costings on a medium range of fittings. - Energy report
This report details how your home will comply with the 6 Star Standard in the National Construction Code. All new homes, renovations, extensions and additions must comply with this code. Put simply, an energy rating is a calculation of the heating and cooling loads required to maintain a comfortable living environment within a building. The requirements for new homes are different to those of extensions and renovations.
How do I select the right builder?
Before signing a building contract to engage a builder to undertake building works, ask the following questions to help you make an informed decision:
- Is your quotation professionally presented and include, or exclude, all of your requested requirements?
- What are your first impressions and do you have a good rapport?
- Are they registered and hold all the relevant insurances?
- How long have they been in business?
- Do they have a good knowledge of construction practices and the relevant experience?
- Are they easy to deal with?
- Can they supply references for past projects?
- Can they supply a rent list of properties to look at or visit?
- Can they explain the permit, building and contract process?
How do I find out if my builder is registered?
A Builder must be registered with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) to perform any building works over $5000 in Victoria. Before you engage a builder, check the status of their registration at www.vba.vic.gov.au, go to the ‘Find a Practitioner’ tab, enter the builder’s name and complete the security check.
Both George and Andrew both hold the highest level of residential building licence in Australia.
George Nionakis DB-U 28380
Andrew Nionakis DB-U 12202
What memberships do you have?
George and Andrew are both members of Master Builders Association and Housing Industry Association (HIA). We actively participate in continuing professional development programs to ensure we are consistently up to date with industry changes and innovations.
How much will the build cost?
There are a few considerations before a price can be given. These include:
- the size of the project
- complexity of the design
- inclusions (basic, standard or luxury)
- characteristics of the land/site (difficult site, accessibility, etc.)
After considering all of these factors a price guide can be given.
How is quality managed?
We have a strict quality control procedure. Checks are carried out during construction, and at the completion of every trade and construction stage. George likes a ‘hand-on’ approach, so he is constantly on site overseeing all trades. This ensures we identify any areas of concern early and have it rectified promptly. During site visits, we encourage our clients to be diligent in pointing out any areas of concern.
Where do you build?
We build homes throughout the Melbourne metropolitan region, the Mornington Peninsula and the Bellarine Peninsula.
Key suburbs we work in are Cheltenham, Highett, Mentone, Parkdale, Mordialloc, Hampton, Hampton East, Sandringham, Black Rock, Beaumaris, Brighton East, Bentleigh, Bentleigh East, McKinnon, Oakleigh, Malvern East, Carnegie, Murrumbeena, Canterbury and Glen Iris.
How long does it take to build?
The construction time for a project will vary depending on the complexity of the development and the level of finish. AGN Builders will be able to give you a timeframe during the initial consultation after reviewing your building documents in detail.
Will I be kept up to date during the building project?
Absolutely! Communication is key and working in partnership with our clients is critical to our success. Regular site meeting are scheduled to discuss progress, milestones, works coming up and selections, if needed.
