When it comes to building a new home, there are generally two types of builders: project builders and small builders.
Project builders are typically larger, more established companies that build huge numbers of homes in any given year using pre-defined designs, while small builders are more nimble and can build custom homes to suit a clients' specific needs. It’s possible you could be their only client or one of a handful of clients.
Choosing the right builder can make the difference between a profitable development and a whole world of pain.
So today I’m going to take a look at the pros and cons of these two types of builders and help you decide which one is right for your next building project.
Project home builders
Let's start with project builders. These are typically large companies that do a high volume of home building each year. Because they build so many homes, they have more buying power and can often get better deals on materials and labour. They also tend to use mass manufacturing techniques, such as pre-fabrication, to streamline the building process and make it more cost-effective. This means they can build homes quickly and efficiently, which is great if you're looking for a simple, cookie-cutter design that doesn't require a lot of customisation.
One of the advantages of working with project builders is that they have a whole team of experts at their disposal. These experts may include architects, engineers, designers, project managers, and construction workers. This means that you don't have to worry about coordinating with multiple contractors or specialists to get your project done.
Project builders typically have a well-established process for building homes, which means that they can move quickly and efficiently through each stage of the project. They have the expertise and experience to handle all aspects of the project, from designing the layout and selecting the materials to obtaining the necessary permits and coordinating with subcontractors.
Most project builders also have access to advanced technology and equipment, which allows them to work faster and more efficiently. For example, they may use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 3D models of your home and simulate various design options. They may also use advanced building materials and construction techniques to create a more energy-efficient and sustainable home.
However, there are some downsides to working with project builders. Because they use pre-defined designs, they may not be able to accommodate all of your specific needs or preferences.
They also tend to have large overheads, which means that they need to keep building homes in order to stay in business. This can sometimes result in a lack of attention to detail or quality control, particularly if they are working on multiple projects at once.
Small builders
On the other hand, small builders are typically more flexible than project builders. They’re able to build custom homes according to their clients' specific needs and preferences, which means that you can get exactly what you want without having to compromise. They also tend to be more creative and innovative, and can come up with unique solutions to design challenges or site-specific issues.
When it comes to building on an irregular shaped or sloping site, your best bet is to go with an independent builder.
Here's why:
First up, flexibility. Independent builders are much more flexible than project builders. They can customise the design and adapt to the unique features of the site, working closely with you to create a bespoke design that meets your specific needs. They're able to make changes on the fly, ensuring that the final product is exactly what you had in mind.
Next, local knowledge. Independent builders are more likely to have local knowledge and experience that comes in handy when dealing with difficult sites or difficult councils.
They know the ins and outs of the area, including soil conditions, drainage issues, and building regulations. That kind of expertise helps ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and meets all necessary safety and quality standards.
Then there's on-site work. Independent builders do most of the work on site, which is a huge advantage when dealing with tricky sites. They can work around obstacles like trees and rocks that might make it difficult for larger equipment to access the site. They're able to adapt to changing site conditions, and make suggestions for how to deal with site challenges.
And last but not least, attention to detail. Independent builders are usually very hands-on and personally involved in every aspect of the project. They take pride in their work and are committed to delivering high-quality results that meet their clients' needs. When building on a difficult site, attention to detail is critical – small mistakes can quickly escalate into big problems. Independent builders will make sure everything is done right.
However, there are definitely some downsides to working with small builders. Because they do fewer homes, they have less buying power and may not be able to get the same deals on materials and labour as project builders. They also tend to rely more heavily on subcontractors, which can result in more variability in terms of quality and cost. Additionally, because they are smaller and have less overall experience, they may not be as well-equipped to handle larger or more complex projects.
So folks, which type of builder is right for you? Ultimately, it depends on your site, your budget, your timeline and your specific needs. If you're looking for a simple, cookie-cutter design and you want to minimise delays and keep costs low, a project builder might be the way to go.
But if you're looking for a custom home that is tailored to your specific needs and preferences, and you're willing to pay a bit more for it, a small builder might be a better choice. If you’re building on an irregular shaped or sloping site, I’d go with an independent builder. They're flexible, knowledgeable, do most of the work on site, and pay close attention to detail.
In the end, the most important thing is to do your research and choose a builder that you feel comfortable working with. Look for a builder who has a good reputation, strong track record, and is willing to listen to your needs and preferences. Check references, and verify licenses and certifications to ensure that the builder has the necessary experience and expertise to handle your specific project before making your decision.
With the right builder by your side, you can achieve both speed and quality in your building project, and, most importantly, come out the other side with both your sanity intact and a healthy profit.
Project builders are typically larger, more established companies that build huge numbers of homes in any given year using pre-defined designs, while small builders are more nimble and can build custom homes to suit a clients' specific needs. It’s possible you could be their only client or one of a handful of clients.
Choosing the right builder can make the difference between a profitable development and a whole world of pain.
So today I’m going to take a look at the pros and cons of these two types of builders and help you decide which one is right for your next building project.
Project home builders
Let's start with project builders. These are typically large companies that do a high volume of home building each year. Because they build so many homes, they have more buying power and can often get better deals on materials and labour. They also tend to use mass manufacturing techniques, such as pre-fabrication, to streamline the building process and make it more cost-effective. This means they can build homes quickly and efficiently, which is great if you're looking for a simple, cookie-cutter design that doesn't require a lot of customisation.
One of the advantages of working with project builders is that they have a whole team of experts at their disposal. These experts may include architects, engineers, designers, project managers, and construction workers. This means that you don't have to worry about coordinating with multiple contractors or specialists to get your project done.
Project builders typically have a well-established process for building homes, which means that they can move quickly and efficiently through each stage of the project. They have the expertise and experience to handle all aspects of the project, from designing the layout and selecting the materials to obtaining the necessary permits and coordinating with subcontractors.
Most project builders also have access to advanced technology and equipment, which allows them to work faster and more efficiently. For example, they may use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 3D models of your home and simulate various design options. They may also use advanced building materials and construction techniques to create a more energy-efficient and sustainable home.
However, there are some downsides to working with project builders. Because they use pre-defined designs, they may not be able to accommodate all of your specific needs or preferences.
They also tend to have large overheads, which means that they need to keep building homes in order to stay in business. This can sometimes result in a lack of attention to detail or quality control, particularly if they are working on multiple projects at once.
Small builders
On the other hand, small builders are typically more flexible than project builders. They’re able to build custom homes according to their clients' specific needs and preferences, which means that you can get exactly what you want without having to compromise. They also tend to be more creative and innovative, and can come up with unique solutions to design challenges or site-specific issues.
When it comes to building on an irregular shaped or sloping site, your best bet is to go with an independent builder.
Here's why:
First up, flexibility. Independent builders are much more flexible than project builders. They can customise the design and adapt to the unique features of the site, working closely with you to create a bespoke design that meets your specific needs. They're able to make changes on the fly, ensuring that the final product is exactly what you had in mind.
Next, local knowledge. Independent builders are more likely to have local knowledge and experience that comes in handy when dealing with difficult sites or difficult councils.
They know the ins and outs of the area, including soil conditions, drainage issues, and building regulations. That kind of expertise helps ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and meets all necessary safety and quality standards.
Then there's on-site work. Independent builders do most of the work on site, which is a huge advantage when dealing with tricky sites. They can work around obstacles like trees and rocks that might make it difficult for larger equipment to access the site. They're able to adapt to changing site conditions, and make suggestions for how to deal with site challenges.
And last but not least, attention to detail. Independent builders are usually very hands-on and personally involved in every aspect of the project. They take pride in their work and are committed to delivering high-quality results that meet their clients' needs. When building on a difficult site, attention to detail is critical – small mistakes can quickly escalate into big problems. Independent builders will make sure everything is done right.
However, there are definitely some downsides to working with small builders. Because they do fewer homes, they have less buying power and may not be able to get the same deals on materials and labour as project builders. They also tend to rely more heavily on subcontractors, which can result in more variability in terms of quality and cost. Additionally, because they are smaller and have less overall experience, they may not be as well-equipped to handle larger or more complex projects.
So folks, which type of builder is right for you? Ultimately, it depends on your site, your budget, your timeline and your specific needs. If you're looking for a simple, cookie-cutter design and you want to minimise delays and keep costs low, a project builder might be the way to go.
But if you're looking for a custom home that is tailored to your specific needs and preferences, and you're willing to pay a bit more for it, a small builder might be a better choice. If you’re building on an irregular shaped or sloping site, I’d go with an independent builder. They're flexible, knowledgeable, do most of the work on site, and pay close attention to detail.
In the end, the most important thing is to do your research and choose a builder that you feel comfortable working with. Look for a builder who has a good reputation, strong track record, and is willing to listen to your needs and preferences. Check references, and verify licenses and certifications to ensure that the builder has the necessary experience and expertise to handle your specific project before making your decision.
With the right builder by your side, you can achieve both speed and quality in your building project, and, most importantly, come out the other side with both your sanity intact and a healthy profit.
