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Checklist

Questions to Ask

Before signing any H&L package

Asking the right questions can save you tens of thousands of dollars and months of headaches. Use this checklist before committing to any house and land package.

About the Land

  1. 1When will the land be titled and ready to settle?
  2. 2What are the estimated site costs for this specific block?
  3. 3Are there any easements, covenants, or encumbrances on the title?
  4. 4What are the estate design guidelines and restrictions?
  5. 5Is there a timeframe to commence/complete building?
  6. 6Which way does the block face? How does the home design suit this orientation?
  7. 7What's the soil classification? Has geotechnical testing been done?
  8. 8Are all services (sewer, water, power, NBN) connected to the block?

About the Price

  1. 1What is the TOTAL move-in cost, not just the advertised price?
  2. 2Can I get a written breakdown of exactly what's included?
  3. 3What site costs are included vs excluded?
  4. 4What will driveway, landscaping, and fencing cost?
  5. 5Are there any estate levies or additional fees?
  6. 6Is the price fixed or subject to change?
  7. 7What's the payment schedule and when are progress payments due?

About Inclusions

  1. 1Can I see the full specifications document?
  2. 2What facade is included as standard? What does the display facade cost?
  3. 3What flooring is included and to which rooms?
  4. 4What kitchen appliances are included? Brand and model?
  5. 5Is air conditioning included? What type and how many units?
  6. 6What's included for bathrooms? Tapware brands?
  7. 7Are window coverings included?
  8. 8What electrical is included? How many power points per room?

About Changes

  1. 1Can I make changes to the floor plan? What's the cost?
  2. 2Can I substitute or upgrade items? How are upgrades priced?
  3. 3What happens if I want to change something after signing?
  4. 4Can I supply my own items (appliances, fixtures)?
  5. 5How are variations handled during construction?

About the Builder

  1. 1How long have you been building in Adelaide?
  2. 2Can I speak with recent clients as references?
  3. 3Can I visit a home under construction?
  4. 4Who will be my point of contact during the build?
  5. 5How do you communicate progress updates?
  6. 6What warranties are included?
  7. 7Are you a member of HIA or Master Builders?

About Timeline

  1. 1What's the realistic construction timeframe?
  2. 2When can construction start after land settles?
  3. 3How many homes are you currently building?
  4. 4What could cause delays?
  5. 5Is there a completion date in the contract?
  6. 6What happens if the build is delayed?

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