Burra Built vs Format Homes
An independent, side-by-side look at two of our building partners to help you understand your options.
Last updated June 2026 · reviewed by the BuildPilot team
Custom Builder
Custom Builder
Note: BuildPilot partners with both builders. This comparison provides factual information to help you understand your options. It's not a recommendation of one over the other. The right builder depends on your specific needs, budget and preferences.
At a glance
- Burra Built is a custom builder; Format Homes is a custom builder.
- Indicative build rates: Burra Built $250K - $2.5M+, Format Homes $2,200 - $3,200/sqm (per sqm guide only).
- Burra Built is based in Victoria; Format Homes in Adelaide.
Quick Comparison
About Each Builder
Burra Built
Built With Quality, Built to Last
Family-owned Victorian custom builder covering Melbourne Metro, Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley and regional VIC. New homes, renovations, extensions, granny flats and knockdown rebuilds.
Often suited for:
Full custom design or client-supplied plans, no fixed catalogue
Small team, hands-on from first concept through to handover
Format Homes
SA's Best Medium Builder 5 Years Running
Adelaide's trusted custom home builder with over 100 designs. Format pays your rent for up to 36 weeks while they build your dream home.
Often suited for:
Over 100 designs with Truecore Steel Frame construction
Up to 36 weeks rent paid while building
How Do I Choose?
There's no "better" builder. There's only the builder that's right for your situation. Consider these factors:
- 1Your budget and priorities
Different builders suit different price points. Think about what matters most: price, inclusions, customisation or service.
- 2Your land and location
Some builders specialise in certain areas or challenging sites. Consider who builds in your area and has experience with your block type.
- 3Your design requirements
Do you want to heavily modify a plan, or are you happy with standard designs? Different builders offer different levels of flexibility.
- 4Visit display homes
Nothing beats seeing their work in person. Visit display homes from both builders to compare quality and style firsthand.
Burra Built vs Format Homes: common questions
Is Burra Built or Format Homes more affordable?
As an indicative per-square-metre guide, Burra Built sits around $250K - $2.5M+ and Format Homes around $2,200 - $3,200/sqm. These are guides only - your real price depends on your design, inclusions, site costs and the current market, so get a written quote from each before comparing.
Which has been building longer, Burra Built or Format Homes?
Burra Built was established in 5-10 years in business and Format Homes in Adelaide based.
Where does each builder operate?
Burra Built is based in Victoria and services Victoria. Format Homes is based in Adelaide and services South Australia.
What warranty does Burra Built and Format Homes offer?
Burra Built offers a standard structural warranty, and Format Homes offers a comprehensive warranty. Warranty terms can change, so confirm the current details directly with each builder.
Who is Burra Built best suited to?
Burra Built is often a good fit for custom design, family homes, first home buyers, knockdown rebuild, renovations & extensions. Full custom design or client-supplied plans, no fixed catalogue
Who is Format Homes best suited to?
Format Homes is often a good fit for custom builds, rent assistance program, steel frame construction, design variety. Over 100 designs with Truecore Steel Frame construction
Need Help Deciding?
BuildPilot can help you understand which builder might suit your specific situation. We work with both Burra Built and Format Homes. Our job is to help you make the right choice for you - not push you toward whichever builder pays the most.
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