Building costs have risen significantly in recent years, and advertised prices rarely tell the full story. Understanding where your money goes helps you budget realistically and avoid nasty surprises.
The gap between advertised base prices and actual build costs catches many Adelaide families off guard. We'll break down the real numbers so you can plan with confidence.
Construction Costs by Builder Type
Volume Builders
$1,800-$2,500/sqmMetricon, Fairmont, Simonds, ABC Homes, Alete Homes. Standardised designs with efficient processes. A 200sqm home typically runs $360,000-$500,000 construction cost. Best value for straightforward blocks and standard designs.
Project Builders
$2,200-$3,000/sqmMid-sized builders offering more flexibility. A 200sqm home typically runs $440,000-$600,000. More customisation available, often better suited to challenging sites or non-standard designs.
Custom Builders
$2,800-$4,500+/sqmBoutique builders, architect-designed homes. A 200sqm home typically runs $560,000-$900,000+. Maximum flexibility, premium finishes, best for complex sites or unique designs. Often includes design fees.
Beyond the Base Price
The advertised price is just the starting point. Here's what typically adds to your total:
Site costs: $15,000-$80,000+ Soil testing, engineering, excavation, retaining walls, service connections. This is the biggest variable and the most common source of budget blowouts. Get a soil test early.
Facade and finish upgrades: $10,000-$50,000+ The base facade is often basic. Upgraded brickwork, render, stonework, feature windows, and entry doors add up quickly.
Internal upgrades: $20,000-$80,000+ Higher ceilings, better kitchen cabinetry, stone benchtops, upgraded appliances, better bathrooms, premium flooring. Most people upgrade significantly from base specifications.
Driveway: $3,000-$15,000 Often excluded from base price. Concrete, exposed aggregate, or paved. Length and width affect cost.
Landscaping: $5,000-$50,000+ Rarely included. Turf, gardens, irrigation, retaining walls, fencing, outdoor entertaining areas.
Fencing: $5,000-$20,000 Usually excluded. Colourbond is cheapest, timber and rendered brick cost more.
Window furnishings: $3,000-$15,000 Blinds, curtains, shutters. Almost never included.
Realistic Budget Examples
Entry Level New Home (180sqm)
Mid-Range Family Home (220sqm)
Premium Custom Home (280sqm)
How BuildPilot Helps
- *Review quotes and identify hidden costs
- *Compare builder pricing on a like-for-like basis
- *Help you prioritise where to spend your budget
- *Identify realistic site cost allowances for your block
Common Questions
Construction costs range from around $1,800/sqm for basic project homes to $4,000+/sqm for high-end custom builds. A typical 200sqm project home costs $360,000-$500,000 for construction alone. Add land, site costs, landscaping, and finishes to get your total budget. Location and specifications significantly affect the final number.
Related Guidance
Need Help with Your Build Budget?
Independent guidance to make your money go further.