DEVELOPER CHECKLIST: QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR MULTI-UNIT BUILDER
Once a multi-unit build is underway, a developer and builder need to work closely together, possibly for an extended period of time, to achieve successful results. So, to establish a healthy building relationship from the outset, one that continues to deliver throughout the duration of a multi-unit development project, we suggest you ask your potential builder as many questions as possible. This includes questions about past clients, as well as sub-contractors and suppliers.
Reputation is a key indicator of performance
Establishing the builder’s reputation is not often achieved via direct questioning of the builder, but rather it is uncovered by asking the broader development community their opinions and knowledge of track records. The importance of how a builder is perceived can never be underestimated, especially when it comes to an investment as large as a multi-unit development.
After all, the building industry is no different to any other industry in Australia; people talk and dissatisfied people tend to talk the loudest. So, ask around, and if you start to hear negative buzz surrounding a builder, pay attention and do plenty of research relating to their suitability.
Ask to see the builder’s portfolio
Ensuring a builder understands the style and unit designs required for a development is critical. If the builder specialises in a certain style, be it large scale off-the-plan projects or small bespoke unit designs, make sure it aligns to your style and investment plans. In addition to the many styles available, past multi-unit developments’ project size and budgets are other points to take note of when looking at a multi-unit developer’s portfolio.
Take special notice of materials, finishes, and the unit designs floor plans, which will all indicate the standards you can expect from them if a future development were to go ahead. And while photographic portfolios are a great place to start, try not to rely on portfolios such as these to answer all of your development questions. By visiting some of the completed projects that enjoy some similarities with your multi-unit development, and the specific unit designs, can help determine if that particular builder is up to the scope and budget of your multi-unit investment ambitions.
Their team will be your team, so get to know them
A multi-unit development is a complex and often multiple-staged project. As such, there are many more people involved beyond the core team of sales, drafting and builders. A multi-unit development builder will also rely on the skills of their sub-contractors, plus the quality of the materials sourced from their suppliers. So ask any potential builder who they work with and try to gauge if they have a good relationship with them. A long-term relationship with suppliers and sub-contractors is a good sign that the builder operates professionally, and in-turn it may indicate the potential for future developments’ success.
Registrations and insurances are a must
All registered builders have builder registration numbers, so that is an easy and obvious check to make. Builder memberships can also be useful to know, as it can provide assurances of industry approved performance levels, and these include the likes of Master Builders Association etc.
Then there are insurances. These are critically important, legally and financially. A multi-unit development builder is required to have adequate public liability insurance, as well as construction insurance. And you must make sure your build is going to include a Home Warranty Insurance. Any reputable multi-unit builder will be more than willing to outline this information without any fuss.
Costs and payments, what is the builder’s process
Costs to build a multi-unit development rely on many factors and you should become familiar with all of them. It is vitally important for any investor to understand all of the clauses in the contracts and read the fine print. Importantly, before signing anything you should know what is included in the fees; ask if the surveying fees are included and if soil testing costs are covered. Find out what is the pricing structure and the processes relating to unit designs variations or changes to the schedule of work. Ask, what are the payment processes? Also, a percentage of the overall cost to build a multi-unit development is expected before work commences, and you should know exactly what the costs to build a unit are, up-front.
Don’t be afraid to get into the specifics either. Specifics could include invoicing procedures, plus payment terms and schedules, as well as establishing the expectation of finalising payments at the conclusion of the build during handover.
It’s easy, simply contact our experienced multi-unit team to arrange a meeting.
OR start completing your checklist for unit builders Newcastle right now by clicking the links below:
Hear from some of our recent clients
Browse our portfolio of recent projects
We build using quality materials, fittings and fixtures from our long-term suppliers
Discover our select range of partner services to ensure every build is of the highest standard
DUPLEX DESIGNS NEWCASTLE AND SURROUNDS
As experienced duplex builders Valley Homes has been bringing to life a range of duplex designs for many years now. While the duplex plans and prices may vary depending on the block size, developer budgets, and build timeframes, one thing is always consistent for the developers – the location of their development underpins the project’s overall success.
Duplexes are as popular as ever in the Newcastle region
Duplexes in and around Newcastle are still steadily rising in popularity for many reasons, including reduced land availability and the rising cost of land. Duplexes are also still one of the best ways for a first time developer to enter the property market, and they are also an incredibly sound investment if you have chosen to build a duplex as a means of increasing the equity in your land. So duplexes have a lot going for them.
However, no matter how great your duplex designs are, or how attractive the affordability of duplex build costs are, choosing the best location to build your development is essential. Because as all experienced duplex builders will tell you, a duplex build needs to be servicing a demand for housing in the area in which it is being built. That is, having the land and the plans are one thing, but having the market demand is another requirement entirely. And this can be where it pays to look beyond city centres to the surrounding suburbs for your duplex success story.
Outer Newcastle suburbs continue to attract duplex developers
When deciding to build a duplex the position of the land, especially in terms of natural features, community services, and regional amenities, is paramount. Fortunately for the Newcastle region it definitely ticks a lot of boxes when you go through a builder or developer checklist, proving itself to be an ideal area to build, particularly due to the region’s fast growing economy and population.
But like all regional centres, Newcastle city itself makes up only a small part of the areas geography, and popular duplex and townhouse designs and prices are just as well-suited to surrounding suburbs that can offer greater land availability, more competitive block prices, and good proximity to other drawcards the region has to offer, beyond city-living appeal.
For years we have been working with many local developers to refine our cost to build a duplex, as well as our duplex designs. Over this time we have started to see new opportunities in a number of suburbs, suburbs that are being sought-after by the developers we are duplex builders for. The suburbs of Kahibah and Jesmond are just two of these rising regional stars, and they seem to be coming out on top for good reason…
Jesmond: beyond the student market
The University of Newcastle is a major drawcard for Jesmond developers, particularly when it comes to duplex plans and prices targeted at providing student housing solutions. But a growing trend is seeing developers look beyond the student market to also service the thousands of staff that work at the University. After all, many Australian academics, as well as international professors, need a well-appointed place for their families that is also close to where they are working. Jesmond also has a shopping precinct, close proximity to a number of public parks, is next door to the new bypass, and is minutes from the freeway – making it an attractive suburb for property investment.
Kahibah: minutes from quiet beach escapes and the region’s biggest shopping centre
Kahibah is a town that is definitely on the move. It has great coastal access to Redhead and Dudley beaches, is only a stone’s throw away from Glenrock lagoon, including its walking and bike tracks, and Kahibah is neighbours to Charlestown, which boast a massive shopping and entertainment centre. Plus, only a few minutes on the Pacific Highway in the opposite direction will take you to Newcastle’s city centre. Yes, Kahibah is a central location and so it follows that duplex builders, like us, are seeing unprecedented interest from developers who are requesting information on the cost to build a duplex in the town. This seems especially true for families and first-time developers who recognise the opportunities in Kahibah’s generous sized blocks that also happen to be well-suited to our extensive range of duplex designs.
Duplex designs Newcastle, Kahibah, Jesmond…
Valley Homes has ten complete duplex plans and prices ready for local developers to start their build. The collection includes townhouse designs and prices, as well as single level duplex designs, featuring a variety of facades, finishes and fixtures. And of course, we can customise duplex plans and prices depending on the individual developer requirements.
Our team of duplex builders know Newcastle. We know the ins-and-outs of duplex build costs and we know outstanding duplex designs. Plus, we also know what is already working for the region’s top developers. So contact us today to find out how our expertise can help your duplex plans become a reality.
Interested in duplexes in and around Newcastle: take a look at some of our recent duplex builds
LUXURIOUS ACREAGES IN REGIONAL AUSTRALIA
If you’re interested in property in regional Australia a rural acreage offers more than spacious living solutions, acreages are also positioned in a strong sector of the property market.
Right now regional Australia is one of the most stable markets on the current property landscape and an astute investment in regional land ownership is a relatively solid one. In fact, in New South Wales, regional blocks of land that are suitable for generous acreage home plans are plentiful, as well as being quite economical, which makes them an attractive building investment.
However, if you are unfamiliar with regional living or are unsure about what to look out for in an acreage block, the prospect can be daunting. So this article will help you start to think through your options.
Know your acreage plans and property ambitions
A cleverly planned house design for an acreage is a great starting point to establish your building budget. This step ensures you have a clear indication of acreage house costs, as well as initiates and establishes a relationship with a regional builder. But there is something just as pressing to know – your property purpose.
Is your property for permanent living or is it going to be a weekender? Are you planning on building a retreat on the site to create an additional income stream? Is it your plan to run a hobby farm with a few animals? Or plant a small crop such as an orchard? Or are your house designs for an acreage part of your retirement plan with a focus on long-term easy management?
When thinking through these questions listed above, it will soon become obvious that your acreage purpose will determine size, type and even the location of suitable properties. So now ask yourself, do you want a:
- small block of about 3 to 5 acres,
- medium 40 plus acres,
- larger scale farm that would require 100 plus acres
Knowing the intended purpose of your acreage can be a critical element to the overall success of your rural property venture, because there are more outcomes to consider than simply size and budget. There can be restrictions placed on certain blocks of land by state or local authorities, including the fact that some blocks are not able to be cleared. Such restrictions might mean you can’t build that stately acreage or become the Hunter Valley’s next boutique vineyard on your particular rural block of land.
Clearing may also be the least of your problems if soil type, access to water, climate, or connected services are not suited to your needs either. So once you know your purpose, make sure you determine what specific characteristics your block of land requires.
Get to know your neighbours
Once you have nailed down your purpose, block requirements, have a budget outline and have a rough idea of acreage house prices by talking to an experienced acreage builder, the next course of action to take is spending time in the particular area. Some developers suggest a minimum of a year researching your chosen part of regional New South Wales to allow the entire scope of seasons to be observed. Of course, that may not be possible to many. So another great avenue for property research the area is to talk to the local land owners.
Find out what they do and how they manage their property through the seasons. Plus, even though rural neighbours aren’t necessarily on top of you like it would be the case in the city, the activities or business conducted on their property may create dust, smoke, noise or even odours that could affect your own business plans, or hinder the type of lifestyle you wish to create. So a quick chat at this early stage can save you a lot of time and money in the future.
Valley Homes acreages represent country living at its finest
When designing your acreage house plans there may be increased fire safety measures to consider, or more fencing required than your last place. However, the good news is, acreage house prices are often less expensive than their inner-city counterparts even though the acreage house plans can take in much larger space. This means you can design your acreage to give you and your loved ones space to breathe and take in the natural surrounds, while you are also saving investment costs on the purchase price of your block of land in comparison to buying a much smaller city block.
If you want to find out more about the types of acreage designs our team can build for you, or ask about a custom designed architectural build on your prized piece of New South Wales land, then please take a look at our extensive range of acreage designs. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our experienced team members who will offer acreage advice, as well as get your project underway.
YOUR BUILDING AND DESIGN LANDSCAPE IN 2019
Just about every person we spoke to over the last year was busy, and in 2018 that was certainly true for Valley Homes too. We built a house a week as part of a unique defence housing project, Wirraway Estate, and after a lot of hard work and clever systems design we won an award for our WHS Management System. Plus we consistently provided local families and astute investors budget advice, all while delivering quality builds on a range of different building options. This included acreages perfect for modern families and duplexes and dual occupancies to suit the unique needs of retirees.
Of course, being busy is great for Valley Homes and so we are working hard to make sure 2019 will include more big partnerships with estates and larger scale projects, as well as more unique home plans to provide our local families, retirees, first home buyers, and investors new home builds that inspire. And because 2019’s New Year’s resolutions are in full swing, now is the perfect time to celebrate the successes of 2018 and then swiftly look ahead to what is in store for you in 2019…
2019 – Trends and Inspirations
Our design team is always on the lookout for the latest décor styles and building products, so here are their big 2019 tips from their favourite design sites and trend forecasters:
Colour trends
Taubmans Colour Inspirations showcase a range of looks from coastal to industrial and more traditional palettes with bold and spirited colours for the home that reflect harmony and nature. Colour giant Pantone has also released their must-have colours and Living Coral is Pantone’s pick for 2019. So while millennial pink may be out of favour, vibrant corals are set to be adding pops of colour in on-trend décors.
Interior design inspiration
In 2019 recycled, sustainable, textural, and natural designer pieces will continue to grow in popularity. Texture is a big one as it is both a visual and sensory experience, and some of the best interior designers will be carefully layering large pieces of marble or stone with soft timber tones. Natural wool and cotton rugs, velvety and soft cushions, and flowing window dressings are set to be partnered with warm metallic materials and clean, sleek lines. Gold is the metallic colour of choice for 2019, particularly popular with the modern art-deco movement, brought to life as bar carts, striking mirrors, and bathroom and kitchen fittings.
Architecture Trends
The kitchen continues to be the centrepiece of home life and the best house plans are reflecting this. Open plan living is still in high-demand, but the 2019 version includes greater focus on fostering conversations and creating design flow for keep families connected to each other, as well as connecting them to the world in which they live. The internet of things will really come into play with smart fridges being one of the most sought-after appliances in modern kitchen designs.
Industrialism is also set for a comeback in 2019 with matte black and concrete featuring in many architectural home plans. Also, just as recycled and sustainable interiors are popular, eco-friendly architecture is also set to dominate in 2019, which seamlessly connects to our next trend…
Landscaping and Outdoor
Landscaping is no longer a solely outdoor undertaking. In 2019 we will see more indoor living spaces featuring green walls and even micro urban farming units transforming homes and living spaces in meaningful and nourishing ways. Outdoor rooms are predicted to increase in popularity and one of the most fun outdoor predictions is the emergence of adult-treehouses. Another favourite here at Valley Homes is the movement towards private oases cleverly tucked away in your very own garden. They’re perfect for day-to-day luxury resort-style living, while also offering unique entertaining opportunities for guests.
Investments in 2019
Property market investment trends are probably the most important to pay attention to for developers looking for their next investment project, and also for our local families, couples and retirees wanting to either get into the property market, upsize or downsize in 2019. The good news is while some markets are on the decline regional Australia is tipped to be where Australia’s property market stays strong in 2019. So it seems Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens residents are predicted to benefit from a healthy property market in 2019.
2019, let’s get into it
Whether your New Year’s resolutions or 2019 goals are looking towards a refurbishment, renovation or a completely new construction, hopefully now you are armed with all the design inspirations and trends to get your started for what will no doubt be a busy 2019 – and if it is quality construction and building, and architectural house plans you want in your year ahead, talk to our team.
Our top 5 Articles of 2018:
BUILDING 1 HOUSE A WEEK FOR DHA SPECIAL HOUSING PROJECT
VALLEY HOMES’ WHS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IS A WINNER!
BUYING A BLOCK OF LAND – 5 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR BUILD ON BUDGET
LIVEABLE, LOVABLE HOMES FOR YOUR RETIREMENT: DUPLEXES AND DUAL OCCUPANCY
TEAMING UP WITH TALLOWOOD
Valley Homes’ exciting new development partnership
Introducing Tallowood Medowie. Our most exciting multi-unit development to-date. A resort-style, tree-lined village for over 50s in Medowie – and we can’t wait to tell you all about it!
Downsize without compromising
As the exclusive builder for Stage 1 of Tallowood Lifestyle Estate, Valley Homes is excited to be breaking ground with 42 architecturally designed homes. Our designers have created six clever and stylish floor plans for residents to choose from, all featuring a host of quality inclusions, such as generous-sized rooms, premium quality fixtures and fittings, beautiful timber floors, open-plan kitchens/living spaces for easy entertaining, undercover alfresco areas, and even a range of garage options to suit the individual needs of anyone fortunate enough to call this estate home.
Resort-living luxuries are all part of the package
The estate has it all, even boasting resort-lifestyle facilities designed to pamper, socialise and entertain residents. Some of the benefits of being a resident include a wellness centre, heated lap pool, cinema, library, bar and clubhouse, not forgetting the easy access to Medowie’s nearby golf course, shops and cafés. Tallowood’s central location also means residents can just pop over to Port Stephens, take a day trip to the vineyards or head into Newcastle for dinner and a show – then return from any adventures to a completely secure, gated estate.
Building a secure village, warranties included
The estate offering really does get better, because beyond the safety provisions of the overall estate design Valley Homes’ strong warranties give retirees and their family’s peace-of-mind that their investment is completely secure. The warranty package includes 13 week defect liability, 6 year structural, and a 2 year non-structural, plus other warranties covering appliances, termite barriers, windows, and garage doors.
These extensive warranties are a point of pride for our team, because we understand that an investment at this stage of life needs complete surety, and the aim is to downsize your home, not demolish your retirement plans.
Browse the Tallowood Gallery
So talk to our team about becoming part of this exciting new property development, or register your interest with the team at Tallowood today.
FAST-TRACKED APPROVALS FOR DUAL OCCUPANCIES
Earlier this year a new Low Rise Medium Density Housing Guide was introduced in NSW and since then councils, including Newcastle and around the Hunter Valley, have implemented changes and updated their systems for more streamlined land development procedures, including the ability for property owners to sub-divide their block of land to maximise the land value, providing easier access to particular types of property investment. As a result, now is one of the best times for homeowners and developers looking towards a dual occupancy opportunity to select their preferred builder and start the development process.
Why are dual occupancies being encouraged by government?
Dual occupancies are increasingly encouraged by both government and local councils because two types of properties still dominate the NSW building market – traditional free-standing homes and apartments. While these types of dwellings are great for some sections of the investment and owner-occupier property markets, many people are seeking either more affordable alternatives or have specific size and design needs that are just not met by other types of new homes. Plus, as Australia’s population is aging, rapidly growing, and increasingly diverse, the options on the market need to reflect this. The hope is that by introducing development changes that streamline, simplify and reduce costs of alternative builds, such as a dual occupancy, more Australians will be able to live in a suitable home for their needs and budget (whether as a tenant or owner), faster than ever before. An outcome that Valley Homes fully supports.
What do these changes mean for landowners and developers?
There are a number of changes in this new code that will reduce approval times, provide new opportunities for a property previously judged ‘too small’ or ‘too narrow’, and give homeowners and developers clear design guides that can help them bypass any unnecessary red-tape. The code is specifically designed to address building and approval conditions for one and two-storey dual occupancies, manor houses and terraces.
- Complying Approval in 20 days – with the new code in place, complying developments can be approved within 20 days, drastically reducing the amount of wait-time previously impacting building schedules, as well as financial arrangements. The NSW Planning & Environment website has more information on what specific building types will now qualify as a complying build.
- Smaller homes are possible on smaller lots – two main size requirements have changed when it comes to a dual occupancy council approval, that is, frontage minimum has been reduced from 15–20 metres (depending on your local council) to 12 metres. Narrow blocks of land are no-longer excluded from these types of developments, just as long as the overall square-meterage adds up. In relation to land size, the average block of land size required by council is now only 500 square metres.
- Clear design guidelines for faster approval – as part of this new housing code a detailed Low Rise Medium Density Housing Design Guide has been created. It outlines a number of aesthetic and functional design elements, which have been put together with the intention to maintain character of neighbourhoods and consistency of design. Two-storey height limits, as well as minimum and maximum plan requirements per dwelling-type, will ensure the complying approvals and subsequent builds provide quality housing solutions for Australians who are seeking alternatives to apartments and free-standing homes.
How is a dual occupancy defined in this new housing code?
As dual occupancies are a sub-set of multi-dwelling building options it is important to know what is exactly meant by dual occupancy, especially as this will ensure investors, developers, and homeowners are provided the correct advice and council approvals for that of a dual occupancy. Not to be confused with a granny flat or duplex, which come under different guidelines. So, as stated on page 4 of the NSW Government Planning and Environment’s Low Rise Medium Density Design Guide, dual occupancy is defined as having two types:
- Dual occupancy (attached): 2 dwellings on one block of land that are attached to each other,
but does not include a secondary dwelling. - Dual occupancy (detached): 2 detached dwellings on one block of land, but does not include a secondary dwelling.
What are your next steps to build a dual occupancy?
Talk to us. Taking advantage of these recent legislation changes will depend on whether your local council has a Local Environmental Plan (LEP) which already permits medium density developments. Part of our service to all home builders and developers is liaising with council and managing the entire approval process. This service includes preliminary site evaluations to ensure the intended land to be developed is suitable for a dual occupancy and that the proposal and plan complies with council requirements. Our team of Dual Occupancy experts know all about the local LEP guidelines and can give you all the answers you need to start your development journey with us.
For further information:
KNOCKDOWN YOUR HOUSE – KEEP YOUR CONNECTION TO HOME
As The Castle’s Darryl Kerrigan famously said, “It’s not a house, it’s a home” – and it’s a heart-warming quote that acknowledges the attachment we all make to where we live. Darryl’s statement is not about the physical structure or the peeling wallpaper housed within it.
It’s about the memories made, the proximity to friends and family, and a representation of how you want to live your life. And it is this sentiment which gets to the core of why a knockdown rebuild is increasingly popular, especially amongst Newcastle families.
It’s actually a very common situation many families across Newcastle find themselves in – you don’t have enough bedrooms, share a single bathroom, are constantly patching old wiring and plumbing, or need to finally get that dedicated home office to expand your business. So it can be hard to ignore the mounting list of cons for staying, but moving means uprooting your family and saying goodbye to memories made on the property. To solve this dilemma many opt to knock down their home to build a brand new home in its place. It’s the best of both worlds!
It’s so common in fact, simply take a drive through any Newcastle suburb and you are bound to find a number of knockdown rebuilds in progress. They are especially popular in established Newcastle suburbs that are zoned for sought after schools. This is where a builder like Valley Homes come in. We can help you hold onto those memories, maintain your community ties, and upgrade your home lifestyle by creating more floor space, adding rooms, creating new family entertaining zones, and connecting modern services – all for a fraction of the price of a full renovation.
If this sounds like you, before you get carried away with dreams to land renovate we recommend you look into a few things first:
1. Get to know your budget
Many people search ‘cost to knockdown and rebuild home’ when starting their budget research and yes, a knockdown rebuild can often be cheaper than a full renovation. This is of course a huge part of the appeal, especially as it can also save you spending money on the fees and taxes associated with buying and selling. But construction isn’t free, of course, and with any investment of this size it is always a good start to talk to your financial service provider. If you have an existing mortgage this is a good opportunity to find out how much money you can access for a build and get a solid idea of the current equity in your property.
Plus, when we talk about knowing your budget, we mean more than simply knowing how much you can get from the bank. We also mean knowing how much you want to spend and how much it will cost to build the type of home you aspire to live in. Talking to an experienced knockdown rebuild builder can give you accurate quotes relating to this. Keep in mind property restrictions, such as a slope, can increase overall budgets.
2. Can your house be knocked down?
Something you may also need to consider is whether your property is restricted by heritage listings. Heritage listing can mean a knockdown is not an option, or it may mean that partial elements need to be maintained when you rebuild, such as a front facade. Also, before you knock down anything make sure your local council allow the type of home you intend to build in its place. It’s one thing to knockdown a rundown house, but if you can’t build a bigger dwelling on the place because of council restrictions relating to height or footprint, then you should definitely know that before the bulldozers move in. This is something an experienced builder can assist with. At Valley Homes we can liaise with council for you so you have all of the information from the outset.
3. Quality builds takes time
Before you start the knock down rebuild process it will help you manage expectations and budgets if you are aware of how long your build will take. Time can also directly impact your budget, especially if you are expecting to rent a house while the construction takes place. Keep in mind a two-storey dwelling will take longer to build than a single storey and if your budget will only stretch to a certain amount of weeks, it will save you a lot of anguish and financial stress if you take this into consideration in the planning stage of your project.
Is a knockdown with the plan to rebuild your home solution?
Maybe you subscribe to Daryl Kerrigan’s sentimentality, or maybe you just love where you live but are due for an upsize or upgrade. Either way, our team of knockdown rebuild experts can give you a quote, a building schedule and answer all of your construction questions – simply contact us on 02 4934 1400 or at sales@valleyhomes.com.au
DUPLEX DESIRES STILL STRONG
Talk in the property market has started to focus on the ‘property boom’ being a thing of the past. As any astute investor would know the property market has actually been gradually slowing for a few years now and this is because of a number of factors, namely bank lending changes and demands for new housing being met (because so many great new homes are being built!)
For investors who are looking for long-term projects the market is still in great shape and duplexes are still high in demand.
The reason duplexes have been relatively untouched in this slowing market is that they provide some of the best value investment options – that is duplex plans and pricing structures are attainable for a large portion of the investment builder market. Plus, depending on the land ownership status of the investor, such as when the property is already owned by the investor, knocking down a single standalone dwelling to build multiple modern homes with cleverly thought out duplex house plans means stalling land values aren’t a deterrent – the investment value still increases with the build. This is because the opportunities for investment yield can be met through other avenues, such as renting, which is an area of the market that is still very strong.
So what is the cost to build a duplex?
The cost to build a duplex is reliant on many factors, which might include land size and slope. The condition of the land also plays a part – does it need clearing, substantial levelling or retaining walls built to prepare for most of the standard duplex home designs? Also finding a suitable builder that has the experience, access to quality cost-effective materials and has the local contacts to keep costs down can also dramatically affect the final duplex build costs. Council requirements may also contribute to the overall budget and this will be determined by the location of your proposed duplex plans.
But to give you a solid indication of pricing beyond those outlying factors Valley Homes has a very transparent and open approach to displaying duplex plans and pricing. Our website has ten complete duplex house plans, which include the starting or base-level cost to build a duplex in each particular design range.
Let’s take a closer look at our duplex floor plans and pricing
Myall duplex house designs: This is the starting point for many first-time investment builders due to its competitively set base price. But just because it is great value doesn’t mean it lacks any of the features the market demands. In fact, the Myall’s duplex house plans offer a three bedroom, two bathroom, and one car space design per unit, cleverly set out to require just over 130sqm per unit. So it’s easy to see why this one is popular.
Depending on overall plans and investment goals, and taking into consideration whether your rental or selling target market requires a higher level of inclusions, then the duplex floor plans best suited to your investment might require a slightly higher cost to build a duplex. This might be because there will be a need for larger sized rooms, more living space, high-end finishes and fittings, more levels, and/or more car spaces. Our Sands duplex floor plans and our Bay Breeze duplex floor plans have proven very popular for that slightly higher end of the investment builder market.
Which buyers and renters are drawn to duplex living?
Duplex home designs are more than just attractive investment options because of how they provide opportunities for increased equity, sometimes double the equity, without doubling the investment outlay. Duplex homes are unique in that they are relatively low-risk investments, can secure strong financial returns, all while boasting broad market appeal; empty nesters, first-homebuyers, retirees and families are all drawn to the benefits of duplex designs. Plus, all of the categories listed above are drawn to duplexes as both renters and buyers – highlighting the strength duplex home designs have in today’s property market.
Finding the right builder for your investment
For a range of contemporary and competitive duplex plans and pricing Valley Homes is a Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Maitland and beyond duplex specialist. Our team of expert duplex designers and construction supervisors can build highly desirable duplexes starting at very cost-effective base prices and we are excited to discuss specific land requirements, council regulations and ideal duplex floor plans to set in motion any savvy investor’s duplex investment goals. Valley Homes can manage as much or as little of the planning process as necessary. Getting in touch is easy, simply call us on 02 49341400 or email us at sales@valleyhomes.com.au
Duplex inspiration from our gallery - SEE MORE
RELATED DUPLEX ARTICLES
Liveable lovable homes for your retirement: duplexes and dual occupancy
Duplexes are built for Hunter Valley investors
Building a duplex: the upsides to downsizing
MULTI-UNIT DEVELOPMENTS – ON THE RISE AS NEWCASTLE EXPANDS
Newcastle region has seen steady growth for some time with many people attracted to the lifestyle opportunities, growing local business sector, easy access to Sydney businesses, close proximity to the Hunter Valley wine region, as well as being home to the University of Newcastle. The families, professionals, businesses, and students choosing to call the region home have been instrumental in the subsequent increase in medium density housing demands and the building boom, which investors and developers are actively capitalising on.
Newcastle’s current building landscape consists of a mix of high-rise office blocks, high-density living options, medium density multi-unit housing developments, plus infrastructure projects. Our Sales Manager, Kaye Purdon, recently reflected on the changing face of the city and its surrounds, “Newcastle City is booming with the development of Newcastle wharf, the light rail and nature corridor, and University of Newcastle City Campus ‘NewSpace’ opening earlier this year. Multiple cranes dot the skyline at any one time and a combination of high and medium density housing options are providing home buyers a great array of building and purchasing options.”
One of the most exciting attributes of this increase in development investment is that the boom extends beyond the city centre. Areas around Newcastle are also benefitting. Many multi-unit developments in the surrounding suburbs of the University of Newcastle’s Callaghan campus, namely Birmingham Gardens, Jesmond and Wallsend, are providing more affordable multi-unit options with great rental opportunities for University students, as well as young professionals wanting affordable housing with the aim to commute into the city centre. Plus, Lake Macquarie is also undergoing great change. The building boom is definitely widespread across the region.
Multi-unit developments are also now more frequently built in areas traditionally associated with free-standing homes – a trend which is opening up new opportunities for investors, developers, builders, as well as home owners. Valley Homes has recently worked on projects in Jesmond, Warners Bay and Maitland, as well as substantial multi-housing estates, including Thornton’s Wirraway Estate (Defence Housing). This shift in the building and housing market is in direct response to the need for more affordable housing developments in regional areas, particularly as land is at a premium. It’s a part of the Valley Homes’ service that we really pride ourselves on: contributing to providing affordable housing to the Newcastle region.
Many of the multi-unit projects Valley Homes has built are for repeat clients. As Contract Manager, Jane Craig, agreed schedules, budgets and scope of works are the cornerstone of maintaining strong client relationships that keep clients coming back for more.
For example, a solid client relationship was established with ABL Property on the Jesmond multi-unit development, which featured 16 single-storey villas and four two-bedroom double-storey townhouses. “We delivered the end product well within the contract period to ensure the client was able to meet their scheduled handover and settlement of the properties to the purchaser of the development. This meant working extremely closely with the developer during the end stage of construction, including meeting all requirements of the certification and issuing of the Occupation Certificate and going above and beyond on delivery.”
Beyond the successful outcome of this recent Jesmond development, Valley Homes has built hundreds of affordable medium-density homes all across the Newcastle region. Recently Valley Homes completed a 25-unit affordable housing project for the Catholic Diocese of Newcastle/Maitland in Mount Hutton, we are up to Stage 4 (totalling 130 dwellings) for a Defence Housing project at Thornton, and several multi-unit developments in Wallsend and Birmingham Gardens. We will also commence construction later this year on an 8-unit development in East Maitland.
Our team has delivered many diverse and contemporary multi-unit builds – up to 130 in a single project – and we pride ourselves on the fact that the finished homes have great appeal and character, are built to the highest building standards, while capitalising on smart material choices and streamlined procedures. Single-storey villas and double-storey townhouses are our most popular building options, however the finished design comes down to the unique site affordances, council regulations, as well as the developer’s budget and investment goals.
Looking for a multi-unit developer? Get in touch today
Need ideas? Browse our Gallery of recent developments
Our team of multi-unit development specialists are happy to discuss any upcoming projects, design trends, affordable building options, as well as budgets and timeframes to give any prospective multi-unit developer all of the information they need to make an informed choice – contact us at sales@valleyhomes.com.au or phone 02 4934 1400.
Recent articles:
BUILDING 1 HOUSE A WEEK FOR DHA SPECIAL HOUSING PROJECT – WIRRAWAY ESTATE, THORNTON
HOW WE KEEP OUR CLIENTS COMING BACK FOR MORE
AFFORDABLE ARCHITECTURE
Google ‘affordable architecture’ and most of the results are blogs and articles featuring shipping containers, tiny living trends and pre-fabricated house designs. It’s all a little off-beat and quirky, which of course can be beautiful and inspirational, but maybe that isn’t what you had in mind? If your idea of a budget-friendly architectural build is moreover a unique, generous, and luxurious home built to a conservative or set budget, and doesn’t include retro-fitting a shipping container, squeezing your family into a jazzed-up caravan or building ‘just another pre-fab kit-home’ – then read on…
Firstly, the ‘not-quite-right’ Google results mentioned above probably occurred because the words ‘affordable’ and ‘architecture’ traditionally are not close allies. Especially as the word architecture historically aligns more closely with ‘expensive’. Fortunately however, this isn’t the case anymore. Modern architects have the skills to design a dream home filled with creative solutions and architectural features, all for a reasonable price.
Achieving such a house is simply a case of knowing:
- where to splurge and where to pull-back,
- who to talk to regarding house designs, and
- which builder can bring your dream home to life.
To help you out, we’ve covered all three…
1. Keeping your architectural design on budget
- Keep your floor plan as simple as possible. Open floor plans are on-trend and require less walls and internal infrastructure. This means you get a modern floor plan with an increase sense of space, while your building costs are reduced due to less materials and structural requirements.
- Standard sizes save you money. When working with your architect try and stick to standard sized elements where possible. Oversized doors, windows, gables, etc. mean that they have to be custom made, can’t be bought in bulk, and generally cost more.
- Luxury comes in all sizes. Ask yourself, and be honest, “How many rooms do we really need?” By sticking to the size you actually need you will be able to spend more on quality design details, feature areas, be more eco-friendly, and even allow for impressive outdoor zones.
- Strategic features. Architectural design must include unique features that reflect your lifestyle and personality, however if you are conscious to keep your build ‘affordable’ then exercise a little restraint and save your architectural features for key spaces only. High use or entertainment spaces tend to be the most popular areas to maximise architectural
- Durable materials over fussy or flashy trends. If you are investing your time and money to build an architecturally designed home, chances are you intend to live in it for many years to come. So keep your ongoing maintenance costs down by choosing smart from the outset. Hardwearing stone and natural wood timbers etc., tend to have great longevity.
2. Working with local Architects
There are many highly regarded and talented architects working in the Newcastle and Hunter regions. This is great news for home builders, however it can feel a little overwhelming. After all, architectural builds can be a highly personal experience, especially for those who are investing a lot of their time and energy into the project.
In addition to credentials and registration details, what you want to find out from prospective architects is: Do they ‘get you’? Do they respect your opinions and ideas? And can they work within your budget? If you can answer ‘yes!’ to all three, then you are in good shape.
Personal recommendations for local architects is many home builder’s preferred method of finding a suitable person. However, if personal recommendations from family, friends or colleagues isn’t possible, we recommend starting at sites such as Houzz.com.au, Local Search, Yellow Pages, and of course, Google.
Local media features, such as the Newcastle Herald’s Homes of the Hunter, are also a great source of home inspiration, as well as handy to find out the names of local architects. Another helpful tip is to keep an eye out for local developments which interest to you. Most development sites provide contact details for the builder and architect involved. This can be particularly useful to see how the design takes shape and what features work.
3. Building your plans with Valley Homes
Our team is uniquely positioned to build a variety of options, from acreages to duplexes. We can build plans provided by an external architect and we also have a suite of pre-designed floor plans to choose from, as well as a custom home design option that engages our in-house draftsman. All of this means flexibility and freedom to choose the best option for your plot, budget, and lifestyle.
To talk all things architectural and affordable, our team can be contacted on 02 4934 1400 or send a message here
ACREAGES FOR MODERN FAMILIES
Family living in the country, on the outskirts of the suburbs, or even on a rare block of land in the inner city is truly something special in an acreage home.
There are many positive advantages to choosing to build an acreage and one of them is breathing space. Yes, acreage builds give you and your family space to breathe as you grow as a family together. They provide relaxing spaces for when you want to read a good book or escape the daily mayhem that is family life. On the flipside, acreages also have ample space to invite everyone you know and love over to your home, to join you and your family for dinner and drinks. Acreages are a home that provide the best of both worlds – a retreat and an entertainer’s paradise in one beautifully appointed, luxury development.
Acreage home designs can be built anywhere, just as long as the block can accommodate it. However, without doubt the Hunter Valley is a popular choice for home builders in the Newcastle region. The popularity of the Hunter is due to a number of reasons, including rural lifestyle, competitive block prices, land availability, and great access to family-friendly facilities, including quality schools and modern recreational centres.
In fact, beautiful, often private and quite expansive blocks are sometimes available in the Hunter Valley for the same price of a small apartment in an inner city block…so when it comes to family life it is easy to see the drawcard. Plus, an acreage gives you the option to enjoy a large outdoor entertaining space that is all yours. You may have that in an apartment, but it is often a communal space. Or on a regular size block of land the outdoor areas are increasingly small due to limited land availability.
How about a gourmet kitchen with butler’s pantry? When space is at an absolute premium, as in an apartment or a home built on a standard-size block, gourmet kitchens may be a standard inclusion, but a butler’s pantry is rare. In acreage home plans a butler’s pantry is the norm. You see luxury is never compromised due to space when it comes to modern acreage homes.
And then there is parking…
One parking space is fairly standard, but two parking spaces is mostly unheard of in an apartment, unless you are building a penthouse or upper level home. Most regular blocks for stand-alone homes allow for off-street parking and a garage for two cars, sometimes more. But in a standard acreage build, home owners and developers can opt for a triple garage with added workshop – and of course on street parking is free for any of your guests. No pesky meters.
Plus, in an acreage build you have so much more freedom to build your home the way you want to build it. Such as choose the view you want to incorporate, or decide whether it is morning or evening sun that you want to make the most of. You are not restricted to a set spot for the front door or where the plumbing needs to connect to your kitchen, like you would have to adhere to in an apartment. You also don’t need to worry about neighbouring homes blocking your sun or restricting your view like you do in built-up suburbs. And as for growing families, you may even want to build stables for a horse or even a rehearsal studio for band practice, all you need to do is customise the already expansive floor plans.
In addition, the concept of breathing space mentioned earlier also applies to the land surrounding your home, not just the space within it. Many modern acreage home builders choose to allow the landscape to be an extension of their living space, while also being a tool for privacy. That is, the acreage doesn’t take up the entire footprint of the block of land and the surrounding outdoor space adds to the property’s appeal.
Of course, in addition to the features already mentioned, there are many more benefits to choosing to build an acreage on your block of land, such as luxurious ensuites and family bathrooms, generous bedrooms, study nooks and offices, comfortably sized living and entertaining zones, and storage, storage, storage.
Here at Valley Homes we have six modern floor plans that are fully customisable and packed full of clever and contemporary features, which our team is only too happy to discuss with you. So please, if you’re interested in giving your family room to grow, while being able to relax and entertain, you might be interested in knowing about our range of house designs for acreages. We can also discuss the average acreage house prices and costs, as well as show you some of our previous projects. Simply call 02 4934 1400 or drop us a line today.
Ready to build your dream acreage home? Get in touch today
Need ideas? Browse our Acreage Designs
BUYING A BLOCK OF LAND – 5 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR BUILD ON BUDGET
When the finances are lined-up and the development or suburb has been decided upon: next step is securing the all-important block of land. And while that may sound simple, it can be anything but. There are many factors to consider – some may cost you more than you bargained for and others will be simple if you have all the facts from the outset. To help you get the best out of your development build we’ve put together some tips to make buying your block of land a breeze.
Tip 1. Have your home plans in mind before you buy
This may sound obvious, but before you do anything as drastic as buying a block of land first draw up a rough plan of what your new home will include. It doesn’t need to be architecturally accurate or even look like a house, it just needs to give you an indication of house size – which translates to how big your property needs to ideally be. That is, if you want four bedrooms, two living areas, two bathrooms, a double garage, galley kitchen, in-ground pool and veggie patch – then you need to narrow down your search to only include suitable blocks and will avoid you having to compromise on your custom home designs down the track.
Tip 2. Sloping blocks can be costly – but can also reward
Buying into a new development will often present a variety of options regarding whether the property has a slope or not, as well as the direction the slope falls – and the blocks with slopes on them are often much cheaper than their flat neighbours at the other end of the street. If you are budget conscious, and who isn’t, then there is an important thing to note. While the initial block of land may be cheaper to purchase, sloping block builds are frequently more expensive than non-sloping builds. Site costs can be larger, foundations may need specialised engineering and home designs will need to be customised to work with the block. However, depending on the slope orientation, sloping blocks can also offer the opportunity for views, better access to natural solar, or even clever integration of cross breezes. It often is the case that in more established suburbs sloping blocks actually tend to attract higher resale prices.
Tip 3. Get the dirt on your soil
If your soil is reactive then this means it has an increased chance of moving. The movement is usually due to either increases or decreases in moisture, but essentially it will determine the type of sub-floor you will require and how deep the footings will need to go. Also, if your property was previously part of an industrial plant or something similar, ensure the soil has been tested for chemical levels and is safe for residential builds as this may be very costly to rectify. Also, if you are buying a block of land that has large rocks and/or established trees then understand your home design may end up having to work around them, or alternatively you might be up for some hefty removal fees and council permits to clear the land.
Tip 4. Narrow blocks can be a challenge
There have been some amazing homes built on narrow blocks and there are many innovative technologies designed to maximise your sense of space in smaller or narrower homes. However, whenever the words ‘innovative technologies’ appear in relation to new home builds it generally isn’t followed by ‘inexpensive’. Narrow blocks can be a design challenge, which can translate into increased costs. Plus, if the blocks are also for sale on either side of your chosen property and they are also narrow blocks then the chances of the new owners building upper levels to maximise floor space might mean your natural light will be reduced. It can also mean you will have to be comfortable being very close to your neighbours.
Tip 5. Know your neighbourhood’s fire and flood risk
A new home that backs onto pristine bushland might sound idyllic, but before you hand over your life savings it pays to understand how being close to bushland areas impact on your building costs. If your house is within 100 metres of bushland your block of land will need to have a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) that your builder will have to comply with. Often requiring more expensive materials. Also, you need to know if your block is below flood level. If it is in a 1:100 flood prone area your custom home design may also need to be altered. Plus, if there is a fire or flood on your property and then you wish to sell at a later date, this can affect your final sale figure. Not to mention the increased insurance premiums you will be paying in the meantime.
And that’s our top 5 consideration on purchasing properties…
Hopefully with these things in mind you are now feeling more confident to secure your unique block of land – and after you have done that we’d love you to come and speak to our team of custom home design specialists to maximise your property’s shape, aspect, and potential.
Interested to find out more? Get in touch today
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VALLEY HOMES’ WHS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IS A WINNER!
Adequate Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) is crucial to the health and well-being to our entire team, as well as our contractors, suppliers and clients. Which is why we are thrilled with our recent win at the 2018 Hunter Safety Awards taking out Best WHS Management System (SME).
We believe our win is due to a culmination of experience, team work, innovative thinking, and stringent health and safety practices – and we couldn’t have done it without our WHS manager, Nathan Ford. Here’s what Nathan had to say when we chatted to him about what the win means to Valley Homes and how it was achieved:
What does it mean to Valley Homes to have won this Hunter Safety Award?
Over the years we have worked hard to improve our WHS standards and now being recognised for that work is a huge achievement. It truly is a great pat on the back for the team, particularly as it is such a competitive category and it was our first time entering the award.
As a Hunter Valley business and valued local employer what are the benefits for participating in awards such as the Hunter Safety Awards?
The benefits are huge! We get to do interviews like this…we get to dress up, go out with the team, have fun, and celebrate quite a serious part of our industry. We are also recognised by our peers from across the industry and so the team benefits from a shot of moral; we hope our clients recognise the effort too.
How did this particular winning WHS Management System design come about?
Through a need to provide one of our major clients with stringent WHS site management and reporting, we developed a system that ended up exceeding the client’s expectations, as well as being easily adapted to suit our overall WHS strategy. Specific needs on site were addressed and became part of our standard WHS model.
The particular site that this winning WHS management system was developed for required special attention to the risks and treatment of extreme weather (high wind). The safety officer and site team developed the risk assessment and methods of measurement to allow accurate reporting to the client with regards to safety whilst working at heights.
Why do you think Valley Homes’ WHS Management System stood out to award judges?
About two years ago Valley Homes’ safety manager found a hole in the current rules and regulations that previously had not been addressed and so we developed a policy about Extreme weather in the construction sector. Also, after progressing to the finalist category we were interviewed on site so that judges could see, firsthand, how Valley Homes conduct their everyday processes and how the WHS Management System was implemented.
What steps go into the implementation of WHS Management Systems?
At the beginning of each project the WHS officer completes site specific inductions, risk assessments and prepares relevant Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) and documentation. The supervisors are a part of this process and are instrumental in instilling a real WHS focus on site, particularly in relation to engaging with the wider trade base. Fortnightly reviews with the supervisor team is a large part of keeping a solid WHS culture.
Why is WHS so important to the Valley Homes team?
Safety is part of everyone’s day-to-day life. Valley Homes recognises this and actively embraces a ‘Work Safe, Home Safe’ mentality. Valley Homes is not just a building company, we are a family that looks after each other trade by trade. The relationships we have built over the years with subcontractors and trades have meant that all businesses now associated with Valley Homes know that safety is a huge part of our business ethos and they embrace it as much as we do.
Does Valley Homes have a good workplace safety record?
Valley Homes has had a very good safety record where in the last four years we have had one accident by a subcontractor, which was minor, and one near miss. The subcontractors that work alongside Valley Homes are very well informed with all safety rules and laws in NSW in the construction industry.
You can work with our award-winning team
If you are a Hunter Valley local looking to work with Valley Homes in any capacity, be it as a client or contractor, you can be assured the WHS and occupational safety strategies are in place to keep all parties safe, whenever you’re on site. Our incredible team will make sure of it.
LIVEABLE, LOVABLE HOMES FOR YOUR RETIREMENT: DUPLEXES AND DUAL OCCUPANCY
Duplex and dual occupancy builds provide more opportunities for Hunter Valley seniors than simply downsizing to a modern, low maintenance home. Customised duplex plans that employ fundamentals in universal design and liveable housing for floor plans, as well as selecting suitable fixtures and fittings, will ensure your property investment is one that you can grow old in, comfortably.
If you are reaching a point in your life when you are ready to simplify, to say goodbye to your expansive backyard or that fourth bedroom, then there are many great options for Australia’s largest growing demographic – the over 55s. However, we believe dual occupancy builds and duplexes are two of the best options when it comes to affordability and long-term independence, because you can sub-divide or optimise use of your current land, build equity or even create an income stream, all while allowing you to maintain your connection to your current community. What’s not to love about that!
Universal design and liveable housing
Universal design is a broad design concept focussed on inclusivity and accessibility. Liveable housing is based on this concept and aims to encourage floor plans that, “respond effectively to [people’s] needs without requiring costly and energy extensive alterations” – read more here – and its incorporation into home design is increasingly important as Australians are living longer. Essentially, this means if you want to live independently or live in your own home for as long as possible there are some things to consider during the design phase to improve your quality of life, as well as reduce the need for retrofitting or restructuring as you age. Liveable housing design combined with easier to manage and maintain floor plans in duplexes and dual occupancy properties make this a retirement plan worthy of your investment.
10 tips to live independently longer in your new duplex or dual occupancy:
1. Single-level design – stairs can become difficult to manage over the years. If a single-level design suits your needs and property size then generally speaking single-level is ideal.
2. Multi-level design is ok too – of course, single-level isn’t for everyone. For example, if you want to build a two-story townhouse/duplex, simply speak to your designer about ensuring stair widths accommodate a staircase lifts, so if you require one at a later date there is no need to modify your home. If you are going higher than two-levels, talk about the possibility of a cavity to allow for a vertical lift at a later date. Provisions for grab rails is something you can also discuss with your builder. While lifts and rails might seem like a very distant concern, it’s planning like this that can save you money in the long-run.
3. Non-slip flooring – low-pile carpet is a popular solution that is comfortable underfoot and helps avoid falls. It can be used with walkers and the grandkids’ prams too! In kitchens and bathrooms opt for non-slip tile solutions, available from all good tile suppliers.
4. Good lighting design – visibility in a home is important for all ages, but as eyes age their ability to identify trip hazards is often reduced. Bright, functional lighting is key and consider two-way switches for walkways that have two entrances.
5. Easy car access – ensure car access is as easy as possible with internal access to the home. Electric garage doors are also a very useful addition.
6. Customise your kitchen – while most of the time you will want a standard height bench, consider a feature breakfast bar that is lower or modular to accommodate for being seated while preparing your meals – and it will look great too.
7. Taking the bath out of bathrooms – generous sized showers without lips on the entrance are not only on-trend, they are very practical. Hand-held shower heads are also a great option and make sure the toilet is easily accessible. Remember to pay attention to your floor tile choice so it is non-slip.
8. Lever-style door handles and single handed tap ware – being able to move through your home without struggling through doors is a quick choice now that can suit your needs for the longest time possible. Mixer taps are also easier for ageing hands, plus help reduce scalding injuries too.
9. Alfresco, yet sheltered sunshine – clever property placement on your land will ensure you get northern sun in winter, giving you an outdoor space to relax and enjoy your retirement any time of the year.
10. Liveability landscaping – as well as making a striking design statement high contrast pavers can help avoid falls. Including garden beds that are either raised or planted with low-maintenance plants are also a great addition.
So if your retirement plan is to live at home as long as possible, continue to enjoy your community while reducing the need for home maintenance and future renovations – we recommend you invest some time looking into a Hunter Valley duplex or dual occupancy build. We have a range of dual occupancy and duplex plans and prices that are all customisable, and our team of experts are ready to talk you through all elements of the design and build process.
More articles on dual occupancy and duplex builds by Valley Homes:
Dual occupancy property - simplified
The developer’s go-to: dual occupancy
Live-in investors and dual occupancy
Building a duplex: the upsides of downsizing
Duplexes are built for Hunter Valley investors
MORE FROM OUR GALLERY: Dual occupancy and duplex living
BUILDING 1 HOUSE A WEEK FOR DHA SPECIAL HOUSING PROJECT – WIRRAWAY ESTATE, THORNTON
Defence Housing Australia (DHA) creates new communities to house defence force families all across Australia. One of the most exciting elements about their many property developments is the focus on environmental sustainability, social interaction, and carefully considered house designs. In the DHA’s Wirraway Estate they’ve worked extremely hard to ensure the 500 families (250 of which will be members of the defence force) feel at home in this innovative Hunter Valley town – and Valley Homes is proud to be building another 40 incredible homes over 35 weeks for 2018’s Stage 4 build.
Wirraway Estate is a certified EnviroDevelopment
As a certified EnviroDevelopment each home built in Wirraway Estate will have a minimum 6-star energy rating, feature solar panels, a 3000 litre rainwater tank, and comply with strict landscaping and house design guidelines to maximise natural solar access. This is an exciting new way of building estates and property development in general, which has a clear focus on sustainable living. It is part of our complete service to new home builders who are buying into Wirraway Estate to ensure all environmental guidelines are met before we submit any plans to Maitland City Council on our clients’ behalf – simplifying the path towards a new home.
Through our work on earlier stages (Stage 3 now selling!), we can confidently say building a home in a development that is focussed on minimising environmental impacts, maximising sustainable living, and promoting healthy lifestyles can only be good for the families who will get to reap the benefits of such a thoroughly planned town – and through our comprehensive services the process is very similar to building without house design guidelines.
Architectural vision and harmonious aesthetics
From environmental enhancement through to the house designs themselves, every element of Wirraway Estate has been planned down to the finest detail – and our team of house designers at Valley Homes have become true experts at designing a DHA compliant home in-line with the overall architectural vision of the Wirraway development. This includes working with clients to ensure correct building orientation and siting is achieved, facades suit specific neighbourhood theming, roofing is consistently pitched and finished, garages and driveways are thoughtfully positioned, outdoor entertaining areas enjoy ample winter sun, preferred materials and colours are adhered to, as well as allowing for future landscaping.
While the guidelines are comprehensive the DHA actively encourage innovation and variety in architectural expression, so there is ample room for home builders to design a home that reflects their unique personality and lifestyle, while seamlessly fitting into the aesthetics of the estate – and our property designers get to do what they are great at, design beautiful, liveable homes. In fact, one of the homes we built in an earlier stage for Wirraway Estate was nominated as a finalist in the HAI Awards 2017.
Quality construction and safety
With so many homes to build in such a short period of time it is paramount that construction quality and safety isn’t compromised. We are proud to announce that Valley Homes are finalists in the Hunter Safety Awards 2018 for our Workplace Health & Safety processes on all of our DHA sites. Our project managers have proven in earlier stages of construction that our upcoming Stage 4 works are set to continue to deliver new homes of impeccable workmanship and building quality.
In line with the DHA’s environmental commitments, there is also a focus on using recycled materials and reducing waste where possible in Wirraway Estate, this includes utilising materials with low volatile organic compounds to improve indoor air quality. It has been a rewarding process for our house designers and builders to work together to ensure the building solutions live up to these requirements while delivering liveable homes for our clients.
Stage 3 now selling – Stage 4 on its way!
A truly special housing project, Wirraway Estate in Thornton is at times a logistical, design and environmental challenge. However we are proud to have exceeded expectations in earlier stages and are continuing to build 40 incredible homes in Stage 4. Central to Maitland and Newcastle, and of course not far from the RAAF Base in Williamtown, the new estate has many positive attributes in addition to its innovative town planning and house designs. Location benefits include established shopping areas, as well as quality school and childcare facilities. Making it an exciting project not only for our team but also for the community who will call it home.
If you would like to see some of the homes we have built in earlier stages to help draw inspiration for your own piece of Wirraway paradise, please take a look at our gallery. It is exciting to see the variety of house designs and floor plans that are possible in a beautifully planned, environmentally sound, modern estate.
Simply get in touch with our team today if you are interested to find out how you can be part of this innovative Thornton-based, Hunter Valley community.
WIRRAWAY ESTATE - Stages 1 and 2:
YOUR YEAR FOR HOME HAPPINESS
While many Australian’s focus on health and fitness, a better work life balance, and making more time for loved ones, a very large portion also have their New Year’s goals firmly pointed towards building their little piece of property happiness in 2018 – otherwise known as a brand new custom designed home! So let’s start the inspirational design journey right now...
Five top design inspirations:
If you are yet to start a home inspiration Pinterest board full of your favourite colour trends and architecture features, and you haven’t been trawling Instagram to find out if copper fittings are still must-have kitchen accents or if Millennial Pink is still the shade of the moment, then relax. Not only is the start of 2018 an exciting time when New Year’s resolutions become New Year’s actions, it is also the time when all of the best design blogs, supplier websites, property magazines and home builders are keen to help you discover architectural insights and colour tips, as well as reveal the latest fittings, fixtures and finishes to customise your dream home.
And here’s a taste of the top 2018 trends to get your started:
1. Metallic fixtures and fittings
First up, according to Real Living magazine’s inspirational site Homes To Love, yes, copper is still a favourite metallic. However, brass is overtaking it as the must-have accent colour, particularly for bathroom and kitchen fittings and fixtures, as well as pendant lights. If you’re not big on brass yourself, you might be pleased to know that classic silver is also not far behind brass in the popularity stakes.
Knowing what accent materials and colours you prefer is a great starting point when it comes time to select your overall colour palette for your new home, as it can determine whether you opt for standard or luxury inclusions when finalising your house plans.
2. Considered contrast
Contrast is a long-standing tool when talking about great custom home design, but as a 2018 trend it has a new paired back, simplified twist. Essentially, considered contrast refers to contrasting tones, materials, textures and even styles that add additional layers of interest to create a dynamic design space, while using only simple palettes or a limited range of textures and tones.
We love this reinvention of contrast and highly recommend this sparing, considered approach, which will maximise your wow-factor and ensure your home is cohesive. For example, if you are a fan of the latest range of Steel Matt Colorbond and PGH Bricks, like home renovators on The Block are, you can create external interest by contrasting colours, while limiting the finish to matt.
3. Tiles and nature
Tiles made from natural materials are proving to be in high demand in 2018 already, which is in-line with the Japanese inspired Wabi Sabi trend. This nature centric trend sees many new home builders choosing to mimic nature in their designs and architecture, creating inviting and earthy spaces. Examples of this are contrasting sleek marble benchtops with reclaimed timber dining areas, or pairing crisp, glossy tiles with earthen matt ceramics.
In addition to tiles, Wabi Sabi has also inspired custom interior landscaping, bringing the perfect imperfections of nature into your most intimate living spaces. Amber Tiles’ new range of eco sandstone-inspired large format tiles are particularly attractive for custom home designs in 2018 that utilise shared indoor/outdoor areas to create a seamless, durable transition, while enhancing the overall design.
4. Custom joinery
Customised storage has long been a custom design home essential and our team of custom home designers and builders have always relished working with our customers to personalise and capitalise on all possible areas of interest when finalising house plans. However, custom joinery in kitchens is a particularly exciting trend at the moment and is tipped to get bigger and better in 2018. Think natural, sustainably sourced timbers to craft open shelving, feature benchtops, or clever under-bench storage.
We are proud to work very closely with the winner of the 2017 HIA Hunter Kitchen of the Year Valley Kitchens and their custom designed joinery extends beyond the kitchen to also include entertainment hubs and expansive wall units – and they always receive outstanding customer feedback.
5. Share your vision with design experts
Choosing to build a home that will be your sanctuary from the world, your private entertainment mecca, or your haven for culinary creativity is an admirable goal and one you definitely don’t have to go alone. Collaborating with designers and architects can take your initial ideas and inspiration from being impressive, through to being a home that will give you complete and absolute home happiness.
Simply pick up the phone, send us an email or drop into our showroom to learn how our team of custom home design specialists can turn your custom home design goals into reality.
FLEXIBLE IN-HOUSE DESIGNS AS FLEXIBLE AS OUR CUSTOMERS
At Valley Homes we are extremely proud to say that our extensive range of in-house duplex and house plans are rarely the final designs our customers move into. This is because, as Sales Manager Kaye Purdon says, “Our in-house designs are mostly used as a base for clients to create their own plans.” And with over 25 years working with the team at Valley Homes, Kaye knows the benefits of a flexible in-house suite of designs. “It’s win-win. Customers can save money and time on the initial design, while still creating something unique to them.
“Customers can sit down with one of our designers and discuss modifications to the house or duplex plan. This may include favourite features from their existing home or a design element they have seen in a magazine or online.” This flexibility can be seen in one of our most popular designs, the Braidwood Duplex, which as Kaye describes, “Can be easily modified to include a walk in pantry, study nook, or additional bathroom and ensuite options. We even have many different façade options as well.”
After completing a Bachelor of Architecture (Honours) at Sydney University and establishing herself in the industry as an intuitive architect, Valley Homes’ Designer, Stef Kinsey, has been working with the team for over seven years. Stef has been involved with over 320 projects, including budget conscious, low cost house builds through to luxurious investments with top of the range fixtures and design extras. Stef’s personal favourite in-house design is the Oakhampton from the Acreage Series, simply because it has it all. “It is a plan that has defined zones for parents, children and teens, dedicated entertaining spaces, and includes a study or guest bedroom. The most common design alteration requested by customers are increased alfresco areas and a third car space in the garage, which are also already included in the Oakhampton.”
The popularity of in-house designs goes beyond the economically beneficial house and duplex plans and their inbuilt flexibility. It also extends to being
able to see first-hand what works. As Stef points out, “Yes, in-house designs are a good starting point for clients to tweak plans and personalise living spaces to suit their lifestyles, but because the design has most often been previously built by us, customers can drive-past an existing home to get a true understanding of the street appeal, suitable façades and overall style, before fully committing to the investment.”
Valley Homes’ investment in producing a comprehensive collection of in-house plans, many under the direct guidance of Stef, means there is a range of features, configurations and budget options available. As Stef says, “Having such a wide choice also means that customers can also select a house or duplex plan that suits the site orientation to take advantage of their specific views, aspect or even access. This is particularly important to take advantage of the beautiful northern sun for living spaces and alfresco entertaining areas.”
The in-house design process – planning your low cost build with Valley Homes
If you are researching your home design options and want to know more about the process, here is a quick snapshot of what you can expect when working with us:
- First you will consult with someone from our sales team to get a personalisedoverview of the process.
- If you want to progress, at this stage all you need to do is provide the site details.
- Then it is a matter of sitting down with one of our designers, such as Stef, and selecting the best house or duplex plans for your budget, your site aspect and size, and your lifestyle – and then customise to suit.
- This is when we will give you a quote, otherwise known as a preliminary tender.
- If you decide to go ahead with the quote we will prepare all of the necessary documents and plans for submission to council…
- …while you get to select the colour schemes, finishes, fixtures, fittings, and extras.
- We will then build, build, build.
- You receive the keys. Simple.
As Kaye says, “Our experienced staff manage the entire build process efficiently and stress free, modify designs to suit individual requirements, and deliver a high quality finished product.” So it really is easy to see why in-house designs are one of the most popular options for customers wanting to build a duplex or house, especially when budget is top of mind.
If you would like to know more about in-house builds, the economical, dare we say it cheap to build nature, please drop us a line or phone us on 0249341400. We also have many floor plans available to view online to make your preliminary research as simple as possible.
Another informative dual occupancy article:
THE DEVELOPER'S GO-TO: DUAL OCCUPANCY
Subdividing a block of land so that it can hold more than one single property may seem like a daunting task, especially if you are not an experienced property developer. So it may be surprising to discover most property developers’ experiences of dual occupancy builds are they’re one of the simplest ways to increase equity, pay off home loans sooner, and/or generate a rental income – all with relatively low associated risk.
A reasonably sized block of land is the ideal starting point for property developers looking to build a dual occupancy home, but there are many considerations and available options when it comes to subdividing land. To get an understanding of all of the dual occupancy basics first, take a look at our article Dual occupancy property – simplified. It gives you a quick outline of key advantages, what land types work best, and property market appeal. Our recent article, Live-in investors and dual occupancy also outlines the different sale and rental options commonly associated with dual occupancy investments.
Dual occupancy’s low risk reputation
If you already know all of the basic fundamentals about dual occupancy and want to know more about why dual occupancies are the go-to investment option for experienced and first-time property developer alike, well it often comes down to how low risk it can be. For example, property developers intending to rent both properties generally means the serviceability of the home loan is immediately improved. That is, if one tenant moves out you still have the rent of the other to service the home loan, which is something the banks (and property developers themselves) appreciate.
Another reason dual occupancies are seen as low risk investments is property developers can double the equity without doubling the investment – taking a single block of land to potentially yield two income streams (whether through renting or up-front sales). This reduces the immediate cost usually associated with buying two blocks of land, and also improves the likelihood of achieving positive cash flow sooner. Plus, this means a single block of land achieves a higher return, either immediate or ongoing, than the particular suburb it is situated in would usually be able to offer. This is a particular benefit to property developers building on land they already own.
Loan serviceability and positive cash-flow aside, the low-risk reputation of building dual occupancy homes also stems from the current property market. Newcastle, Maitland and the Hunter Valley are currently experiencing a very healthy market in relation to the appeal of dual occupancies. Demand for properties is high, and buyers and renters are increasingly seeking medium density living situations. These particular characteristics of the market drive up potential returns on investment and increase security.
Experienced dual occupancy builders help maximise gains
If you’re thinking of building a dual occupancy home, but would prefer to manage the entire process and build it yourself, you should be aware that as per the NSW Government Fair Trading ‘Major changes to home building laws’ announcement, since 2015, “Owner-builders are prohibited from getting a permit for a dual occupancy except in special circumstances.” You will also need to comply with the extensive dual occupancy checklist issued by your local council.
This is why we recommend getting the right team behind you who can take care of the technical details, navigate the many building requirements, and deliver a quality build. Researching your local area to find out what builders have a great reputation for delivering on time, sticking to the budget and streamlining the process is vital for property development success. If you can secure a builder who can tick all of those boxes, you will stand the best chance of maximising on your investment.
We’re the real deal for dual occupancy developers
Valley Homes has an experienced team, local know-how, and a network of reliable tradespeople to get your development dreams off the ground as simply and stress-free as possible – but more than that we have a host of flexible design options with premium materials and inclusions, all sourced from a wide range of quality suppliers. What does this mean for your property development? With Valley Homes your investment will be a sound investment, stand the test of time and have great market appeal.
Whether this is your first foray into property development and want to know more about how to build on your own land, or if you are an experienced property developer and want to discuss the ins-and-outs of our dual occupancy terms of service, we’re ready to help. Please give us a call, send us an email or pop into our Head Office.
Another informative dual occupancy article:
HUNTER VALLEY SPOTLIGHT – EVEN MORE REASONS TO BUILD YOUR VERY OWN ACREAGE
Now is a great time to experience an authentic country lifestyle and build your very own luxury acreage in the Hunter Valley. The region has easy access to modern facilities and city opportunities, it has many good size plots available at competitive land prices, and it is the home to agricultural icons, such as the nearby vineyards – and this is tranquil little piece of regional Australia is definitely on the up and up.
If you’re not sure what an acreage is feel free to contact us for a chat, but typically it is a single level home on land larger than an acre allowing for expansive, relaxed designs, full of the luxury inclusions you just couldn’t fit on an inner city block. This includes a gourmet kitchen with butler’s pantry, his and hers walk-in robes, triple garage, additional workshop, very generous living and private spaces, and so much more. Most importantly, it’s not just picking one or two of these either, it is enjoying the whole suit of spacious extras!
If you’re keen on building a luxurious country retreat with all the acreage property must-haves mentioned above, you might then be asking, why is the Hunter Valley such a standout option for building in regional Australia? Well, the Hunter Valley is continuing to show strong developmental potential through the extensive planning and vision of developers and the Local Council. Current developments are supporting existing industries thriving in the area, such as mining, agriculture, hospitality, and tourism, as well as working to create solid infrastructure, providing employment opportunities through the building of new schools, shopping districts and recreational facilities.
While you may want to escape to your own private acreage hideaway and not worry about surrounding progress, it will no doubt be
comforting to know the Hunter Valley is a solid financial investment. Projects like The Levee in Maitland nearing completion, Huntlee the brand new town just outside of Branxton selling early stages, and the recent sale of the expansive Anvil Creek site which is tipped to include a golf course, amphitheatre and further residential opportunities, is creating a lot of interest in the property market.
The recent spike in interest is also partially thanks to the recent upgrade of major arterial roads, in particular the Hunter Expressway. Getting in and out of the area is quicker and easier than ever with Newcastle less than an hour away. Plus, as more attention has been drawn into the growing population, so too is the focus on ensuring public transport also keeps up – which is usually a good sign for future proofing an investment.
The only downside to all of this amazing news about the Hunter Valley’s bright future, is the word is getting out and more people are wanting to build there. As you probably know, when it comes to property markets increased popularity means prices may soon be driven up too – as well as the most spacious or most secluded blocks get a little harder to come by. The great news for prospective acreage builders, however, is that land prices are still very competitive, especially when compared to nearby Newcastle and there are still many blocks available that are perfect for an acreage build. Now is the time to act.
A great starting point for anyone interested in building a new home in the Hunter Valley, and you’re still deciding if an acreage build is best for you, is to take a look at our six featured acreage floor plans. This will give you clear and simple information about potential layouts, inclusions and the potential you will have for an amazing country lifestyle. Also, each design is fully customisable, which is particularly important so you can maximise the unique aspects of your specific block.
Other great acreage and/or Hunter Valley articles:
- Country Home Design – Enjoy the perfect day, every day
- Acreage living – when bigger is better
- On-trend: Custom home design in the Hunter
DUPLEXES ARE BUILT FOR HUNTER VALLEY INVESTORS
Here at Valley Homes we happen to know a lot about the upsides of one of the Hunter Valley’s most popular investment options – duplex builds – because we have built quite a few.
But did you know kick-starting your property investment portfolio with our wide range of duplex designs and prices is easier and more cost effective than you might think? The first step to taking advantage of our years of experience building clients’ property investment portfolios is asking us all of your important investment questions. To help you get started, here are answers to our most common duplex questions asked by investors.
Duplex FAQs
Is my block suitable to build a duplex on?
Generally speaking, most blocks in the Hunter Valley are. Of course, all duplex builds are subject to a site inspection and council approval before any work can commence. Block size, zoning and road access are some of the main elements that will be considered when seeking approvals, as well as if the block has an existing dwelling that would need to be knocked down first, and whether that dwelling is heritage listed. Always seek professional advice and check with council on the block’s suitability for building a duplex before purchasing a property. Maitland City Council, Cessnock City Council and Singleton Council are great starting points, as well as getting in touch with your local duplex builder who has experience building in your chosen suburb.
Can you tell me how much to build a duplex on my block?
Yes we can! Simply contact a member of our experienced sales team to get the ball rolling. Before a building estimate can be provided, first we need to establish the type of duplex design you are after (e.g., luxury or standard), the block size and location, as well as any council requirements your block is subject to. Then we will provide you with an estimated cost to build a duplex. After receiving the quote, if you decide to go ahead and build your duplex property investment with Valley Homes, we will then formalise your duplex house plans, including design choices, special requests and custom additions, and give you a final cost to build a duplex. After all, we understand the key to successful property investment is knowing exactly what costs you need to pay. This ensures our build comes within your budget and meets your expected return on investment.
Can a duplex be subdivided? If so, Torrens Title of Strata Title?
In short, yes, but whether your duplex requires Torrens or Strata Title is subject to council requirements. Each state in Australia has variations on strata laws, however NSW recently amended theirs to better reflect modern living and property investment situations. It is something we recommend investors get familiar with, especially if one property will be rented or sold. A specialised strata expert, such as a Property Conveyancer, is a great place to get your strata advice.
How long does a duplex typically take to build?
At Valley Homes we use HIA Building Contracts which have a build time of 32 weeks, subject to the final duplex design, the site requirements, and weather. Plus, Valley Homes offers a turn-key service, meaning at the end of your 32 week build your completed Hunter Valley duplex will be handed over ready to immediately rent or sell.
Does Valley Homes look after the DA application?
Yes, we certainly can. One of the many advantages of building your duplex with an experienced builder is that we know the ins-and-outs of the council DA application process, and we are proud to offer the completion of all required council applications as part of our service. Approval times can vary depending on factors such as if it is an Integrated Development or not, however, turnarounds are usually fairly reasonable.
Can one half of a duplex be different to the other?
Absolutely. Many of our Hunter-based investors build one half of the duplex with the intention of living in it themselves. This often means customising and upgrading standard inclusions in one half, to create a more luxurious home, while the other half is fitted out for rental appeal with standard, hard-wearing fittings and fixtures. Plus, many investors have found that increased street appeal and market interest can be achieved by slightly altering the facades to create a sense of two unique properties. Essentially, the duplex house plans are whatever each individual property investor wants to make it. We simply provide the expertise and building assurances to make sure any return on investment is optimised and investors are given the best opportunity to achieve their property aspirations.
If you have any more questions, or want to build your property investment duplex with Valley Homes, then please contact us.
Other great Valley Homes duplex articles:
- Building a duplex: the upsides to downsizing
- The duplex drawcard
- Port Stephens – the duplex dream
- Duplex by design
- Duplex in demand