Format Homes vs Simonds 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
Volume 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; Simonds Homes is a volume builder.
- Indicative build rates: Format Homes $2,200 - $3,200/sqm, Simonds Homes $1,800 - $2,500/sqm (per sqm guide only).
- Format Homes is based in Adelaide; Simonds Homes in Victoria (National).
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
Simonds Homes
Volume home builder (national)
A national volume builder with a presence in Adelaide's growth corridors, offering competitively priced pre-designed homes and first-home buyer packages.
Often suited for:
Efficient pre-designed homes focused on value and functionality
Streamlined construction process for efficient delivery
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 Simonds Homes: common questions
Is Format Homes or Simonds Homes more affordable?
As an indicative per-square-metre guide, Format Homes sits around $2,200 - $3,200/sqm and Simonds Homes around $1,800 - $2,500/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 Simonds Homes?
Format Homes was established in Adelaide based and Simonds Homes in 1949.
Where does each builder operate?
Format Homes is based in Adelaide and services South Australia. Simonds Homes is based in Victoria (National) and services South Australia & Victoria.
What warranty does Format Homes and Simonds Homes offer?
Format Homes offers a comprehensive warranty, and Simonds Homes offers a structural guarantee. 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 Simonds Homes best suited to?
Simonds Homes is often a good fit for budget-conscious buyers, northern adelaide, first home buyers, quick builds. Efficient pre-designed homes focused on value and functionality
Need Help Deciding?
BuildPilot can help you understand which builder might suit your specific situation. We work with both Format Homes and Simonds Homes. Our job is to help you make the right choice for you - not push you toward whichever builder pays the most.