Format Homes vs Oakford 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
- Format Homes is a custom builder; Oakford Homes is a custom builder.
- Indicative build rates: Format Homes $2,200 - $3,200/sqm, Oakford Homes $2,200 - $3,200/sqm (per sqm guide only).
- Format Homes is based in Adelaide; Oakford Homes in Adelaide.
Quick Comparison
About Each Builder
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
Oakford Homes
Quality Homes Built on Honest Foundations Since 1985
Family-owned Adelaide custom home builder with 40+ years of experience and over 4,000 completed homes. Reputation built on transparent pricing, honest conversations and quality finishes delivered by trades who've been with them for 15, 20, even 25 years. Winner - HIA SA Display Home 2024.
Often suited for:
Custom designs built around your life plus a library of proven adaptable designs
Direct contact with experienced professionals from first conversation to handover; no-surprises approach
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.
Format Homes vs Oakford Homes: common questions
Is Format Homes or Oakford Homes more affordable?
As an indicative per-square-metre guide, Format Homes sits around $2,200 - $3,200/sqm and Oakford 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, Format Homes or Oakford Homes?
Format Homes was established in Adelaide based and Oakford Homes in 1985 (40+ years, 4,000+ homes).
Where does each builder operate?
Format Homes is based in Adelaide and services South Australia. Oakford Homes is based in Adelaide and services South Australia.
What warranty does Format Homes and Oakford Homes offer?
Format Homes offers a comprehensive warranty, and Oakford Homes offers a comprehensive home builder's warranty. Warranty terms can change, so confirm the current details directly with each builder.
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
Who is Oakford Homes best suited to?
Oakford Homes is often a good fit for custom builds, knockdown rebuilds, adapting proven designs, honest transparent pricing. Custom designs built around your life plus a library of proven adaptable designs
Need Help Deciding?
BuildPilot can help you understand which builder might suit your specific situation. We work with both Format Homes and Oakford 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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