Building a new home is a significant investment, and one of the most crucial decisions you will make is choosing the right builder. In Australia, there are two main types of builders to choose from: custom builders and volume builders. The choice between the two depends on various factors, including your budget, timeline, and design preferences.
If you’re wondering, “How much does it cost to build a house Melbourne?”, this decision will directly influence the overall cost and value of your new home. In this article, we will break down the key differences between custom and volume builders, helping you determine which option is best suited to your needs.
What Are Custom Builders?
Custom builders specialise in creating bespoke homes that are tailored to the unique needs and preferences of their clients. These builders work with homeowners to design a home from the ground up, ensuring that every detail aligns with the client’s vision. Custom homes are often highly personalised, incorporating specific layouts, materials, and finishes chosen by the homeowner.
Advantages of Custom Builders
Full Design Flexibility
One of the biggest benefits of choosing a custom builder is the level of design flexibility. You can customise every aspect of your home, from the floor plan to the finishes and fixtures. Custom builders allow you to create a home that is uniquely yours, ensuring it meets your specific needs and lifestyle.
High-Quality Materials
Custom builders tend to use high-quality materials and craftsmanship to build each home. The focus is often on creating a long-lasting and high-end product, with attention to detail that ensures durability and aesthetic appeal. With a custom home, you can select premium materials that suit your style, such as marble countertops, hardwood flooring, or energy-efficient windows.
Personalised Experience
When working with a custom builder, you typically get a more hands-on and personalised experience. The builder works closely with you throughout the design and construction process, offering guidance and expertise along the way. This level of collaboration ensures that the end result meets your expectations.
Disadvantages of Custom Builders
Higher Costs
Building a custom home is generally more expensive than choosing a volume builder. The cost of design, materials, and labour is often higher, and because custom homes are typically built one at a time, the process is less cost-efficient. If you are working with a limited budget, a custom home may be out of reach, especially in high-demand areas like Melbourne.
Longer Build Time
Custom homes take longer to build than homes from volume builders. The design process, along with the sourcing of materials and personalised touches, can extend the timeline. If you’re looking for a quick move-in, a custom build may not be the best option as it often takes longer to complete.
What Are Volume Builders?
Volume builders, on the other hand, build homes in larger quantities, often using standardised designs that can be replicated multiple times. These builders are more focused on efficiency and scalability, which allows them to offer homes at a lower cost than custom builders. Volume builders typically offer a selection of pre-designed homes, and homeowners can choose from these designs to suit their needs.
Advantages of Volume Builders
Lower Costs
One of the key advantages of choosing a volume builder is the cost savings. Because these builders operate on a larger scale, they can pass on savings to homeowners by buying materials in bulk and standardising the design and construction process. This makes volume-built homes more affordable compared to custom builds, which can be an important consideration for many buyers.
Faster Build Time
Volume builders are experienced in constructing homes quickly and efficiently. Because the designs are pre-determined, the building process can be streamlined, resulting in faster construction times. If you need a home completed quickly, volume builders are often the preferred option, with some homes being completed in just a few months.
Proven Designs
Volume builders offer a range of pre-designed homes that have been tested and proven. These designs are often tried and tested for functionality, ensuring that they meet the needs of most homeowners. The designs are typically well thought out and cater to a variety of tastes, which makes it easier for many buyers to find a layout that works for them.
Disadvantages of Volume Builders
Limited Customisation
One of the biggest drawbacks of using a volume builder is the limited ability to customise your home. While some level of personalisation is available (such as finishes or additional rooms), the overall design will be based on pre-determined templates. If you’re looking for a truly unique home that reflects your personal tastes, a volume builder may not be the best choice.
Quality Variations
While volume builders typically offer good quality homes, the level of craftsmanship may not be as high as that of a custom builder. Because volume builders use standardised designs and materials, the focus is more on speed and cost-efficiency than on providing a personalised, high-end product. Some homeowners may feel that certain finishes or details are not up to their expectations.
Less Personal Attention
With volume builders, you may not receive the same level of personal attention and communication as you would with a custom builder. As these builders manage many projects at once, the customer experience can sometimes feel more transactional. If you want to be closely involved in the process, a volume builder may not provide the same level of service.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Now that we’ve explored the differences between custom and volume builders, it’s important to consider which option suits your specific needs. Both types of builders have their strengths and weaknesses, so your choice should depend on factors such as budget, timeline, and design preferences.
When to Choose a Custom Builder
- Budget is not a major constraint: Custom homes are more expensive, so they are best for those who have a higher budget for building a new home.
- You want a unique design: If you have specific ideas in mind for your dream home, a custom builder is the way to go. This option allows you to bring your vision to life.
- You have time for a longer build: If you’re not in a rush to move into your new home and are happy to wait for the construction to be completed, a custom builder offers flexibility in design and materials.
When to Choose a Volume Builder
- You have a tighter budget: If you’re looking to save money, a volume builder is often the more affordable option, as they can offer homes at a lower cost due to economies of scale.
- You need a home quickly: If you’re looking for a faster build, volume builders are more efficient and can complete a home much quicker than custom builders.
- You don’t require extensive customisation: If you’re happy with a well-designed, proven floor plan and don’t need extensive changes, a volume builder may provide exactly what you need.
Factors to Consider
Location and Land Availability
When deciding between a custom and volume builder, the location of your new home plays a significant role. Volume builders are often active in new estates where land is readily available, while custom builders may work on unique or challenging sites. If you have a specific location in mind, make sure to check whether both options are feasible in your chosen area.
Building Regulations and Permits
Both custom and volume builders must adhere to local building codes and regulations. However, custom builders may face additional regulatory hurdles, especially if you are planning an unusual or complex design. Ensure that your builder is familiar with the local zoning laws and building codes to avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between custom and volume builders?
Custom builders offer tailored, one-of-a-kind homes that are designed according to your specifications, while volume builders work with pre-designed homes that are mass-produced for efficiency and affordability.
How long does it take to build a house with a custom builder?
Custom homes typically take longer to build, ranging from 9 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the design and the builder’s schedule.
Can I make changes to a home built by a volume builder?
While you can customise some elements of a volume-built home, such as finishes and colours, major changes to the floor plan or structure are usually not possible.
Conclusion
Choosing between custom vs. volume builders depends largely on your specific needs, budget, and timeline. If you’re looking for a unique, highly personalised home and have the budget to support it, a custom builder is likely your best choice.
However, if you need an affordable, quickly built home with a proven design, a volume builder can offer an excellent solution. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each option, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your vision for your new home.