Planning on Building A New Home in Auckland?

Finding a builder in Auckland for a new home construction is very different from the type of builder you would need for a renovation or small home repair. By simply deciding to use anyone who calls themselves a “builder” you could be taking a huge risk.

Fortunately, we have come up with a list of top mistakes to avoid when looking for a builder for your new home build.

1. Don’t assume any Auckland builder can construct a new home

Each builder is different in Auckland! A particular builder may specialise in home renovations, deck work, extensions only, and of course new home constructions and builds.

That is why it is important to make sure you ask the builder specific questions about the type of work they do day-in, day-out.

Ask specifically about their experience in new home builds – how many they build annually, the budget range of homes they specialise in, and areas they build in.

2. Don’t rely on portfolio images only

Each Auckland builder may have a particular style and niche. Pictures of their work may be helpful, but when you are spending hundreds and thousands of dollars- this is not enough.

Insist on seeing several of the homes they have built over the last few years and speak to their customers.

Look at homes that are similar to what you have in mind for your project.

Walk through each home and take note of the condition and workmanship quality of the build and assess if it has stood the test of time.

Understand if issues have occurred even if it’s 3- 5 years after the build.

3. Don’t assume a custom-made Auckland builder is more expensive than a project home builder

There is a difference between a project home build and a custom made build. With a project home, there may be many “standard” features and to deviate from them can be costly to you. It may not be the perfect solution for you especially if you want to have a huge say in the design.

You may be surprised to find a private builder extremely experienced in new home construction that is more affordable than a project home solution.

It is always worth exploring both options especially if you want something more special.

4. Not checking contract inclusions and exclusions

Some homeowners just dive in and sign contracts expecting everything to be included.

Whilst most contracts may clearly state “inclusions”, it is perhaps more important that you pay attention and ask about contract “changes” and “exclusions” as that’s where it can suddenly get more expensive.

5. Not asking your Auckland builder about warranties

Certain things may go wrong with the build or issues detected two, five, and even seven years later. Common issues include sagging roofs, water leaks, or waterproofing problems.

Understand what specific warranties are included and excluded and what the process is for getting them addressed.

Likewise, make sure you understand what you are entitled to in two years, five years, or any given period.

Ensure terms are stipulated in the written contract.

6. Inaccurate building cost budgets

Inaccurate building cost budgets in Auckland can lead to a range of detrimental outcomes. Underestimating the true cost of the project can result in budget overruns, financial stress, and delays in completion. Homeowners may be forced to compromise on quality or seek additional financing, risking legal and regulatory issues. Furthermore, strained relationships with contractors and suppliers can arise from disputes over payments or changes to the project scope.

Overall, accurate building cost projections are highly crucial to ensure the successful and timely completion of a new home build.

How to prepare the best when planning a new home build in Auckland, New Zealand

With so much uncertainty in the building industry and no sign of it improving any time soon, getting the most value out of a new home build will continue to be a challenge for homeowners.

Construction cost estimators like Newin Building Estimating Services are professional service providers with extensive experience in the building industry. If you are looking to understand the latest building costs in Auckland, reduce your building construction costs, and streamline your building project, a building cost estimator can help.

We welcome you to reach out today to find out more.

Useful links

• Construction cost estimator Auckland
• Construction cost estimator Newmarket
• Construction cost estimator Wellington
• Construction cost estimator North Shore
• Construction cost estimator Avondale
• Construction cost estimator Manukau & East Auckland
• Construction cost estimator West Auckland
• Construction cost estimator South Auckland
• Construction cost estimator Hamilton
• Quantity surveyors Auckland
• Quantity surveyors Devonport Auckland
• Quantity Surveyors Wellington
• Quantity surveyors Lower Hutt
• Quantity Surveyors Manukau & East Auckland
• Quantity Surveyors West Auckland
• Quantity Surveyors South Auckland
• Quantity Surveyors Hamilton