Each path offers its own pros and cons, especially when it comes to cost, customisation, and lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of designing your perfect family home or prefer something more hands-off and ready-made, understanding the difference will help you make a confident choice.
At WOW Homes, we’re here to make the process simple. We’ll guide you through both options so you can find the one that works for your budget, goals, and future plans.
What is Buying “Off the Plan”?
Buying off the plan means purchasing a property, usually an apartment or townhouse, before it has been fully built. You’ll often make your decision based on floorplans, renders, and the developer’s proposed timeline. This approach is popular in high-density areas or new developments where construction is staged.
One of the main advantages of buying off the plan is the potential to lock in a lower price before the property is completed. You may also benefit from developer incentives or grants if you’re a first home buyer. It can be a more hands-off way to get into the market with minimal involvement in the building process.
However, this option can also come with longer waiting periods, less control over design choices, and a higher risk of construction delays. You’ll also want to be sure the final build quality matches the initial promises.
Related reading:
- What You Need to Know About the Process of Getting a Home Loan – Understand how finance timing works with off-the-plan purchases.
What is a House and Land Package?
A house and land package is where you select a block of land and pair it with a home design usually through the same builder. It gives you the opportunity to choose a location that suits your lifestyle and build a home that matches your needs, preferences, and future plans.
This option is ideal if you want more control over the design and finishes. Whether it’s an open-plan kitchen, a backyard for the kids, or a quiet study space, you’ll have the freedom to choose a suitable design to make it your own. Plus, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting before construction begins.
Unlike off-the-plan purchases, house and land packages allow you to be involved in each stage of the build. It may take a little more time and decision-making, but many first home buyers in Perth find the extra input worthwhile.
Related reading:
- Why House and Land Packages? – Discover why so many first home buyers choose this option.
- How to Choose the Perfect House & Land Package – A helpful guide to making the right selection.
Compared at a Glance
Choosing between buying off the plan and opting for a house and land package comes down to what matters most to you—whether that’s flexibility, convenience, budget, or involvement in the build. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help make things clearer:
Feature | Off the Plan | House & Land Package |
Property Type | Apartment or townhouse | Standalone home |
Customisation Level | Limited – design is pre-set | Higher – you choose design, colours, and finishes |
Build Involvement | Low – developer manages everything | High – you’re involved from planning to completion |
Location Flexibility | Often limited to specific developments | Greater choice of suburbs and estates |
Upfront Costs | Deposit paid early, balance on completion | Typically pay for land first, then construction |
Ideal For | Investors or low-maintenance lifestyle seekers | Families or buyers wanting a more personalised home |
This comparison gives a snapshot, but the best option depends on your lifestyle, financial situation, and long-term plans.
Related reading:
- Top Four Reasons House and Land Packages Make Sensible Investments – A closer look at the benefits of building new.
Which One Is Better for First Home Buyers in Perth?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer choosing between off the plan and a house and land package depends on your personal goals, budget, and how involved you want to be in the process.
If you’re after a move-in ready solution with fewer decisions to make, buying off the plan might appeal to you. However, if you’re dreaming of a place that reflects your lifestyle and allows for greater flexibility, a house and land package offers more freedom in design, location, and other features.
For many first home buyers in Perth, house and land packages are the more popular choice because they deliver long-term value, more space, and the ability to build in family-friendly communities. Plus, you may be eligible for government grants and incentives that reduce the financial pressure.
Related reading:
Additional Insights
Still unsure which option is right for you? Here are some common questions we hear from Perth first home buyers weighing up off the plan vs house and land options:
Can I use the First Home Owner Grant for both options?
Yes, the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) in WA can apply to both off the plan and house and land builds as long as the property is brand new and meets the eligibility criteria.
Which option is faster to move into?
Off-the-plan properties can be faster if construction is already underway or near completion. However, with house and land, you can often get started sooner on finance and land settlement, even if the build takes longer overall.
Do I need a big deposit either way?
Not necessarily. There are no deposit options and guarantor loans available, depending on your situation and lender.
Can I inspect the home before settlement?
With off-the-plan, you may not get to see the finished property until handover. With house and land builds, you can often visit the site throughout the process and work directly with your builder to track progress.
How WOW Homes Helps You Get Started with House and Land
At WOW Homes, we specialise in house and land packages and we’re here to make the journey to your first home simple, affordable, and stress-free.
While we don’t offer off-the-plan properties, our focus on house and land means we can give you more control, flexibility, and value. From helping you secure finance, to finding the right block in a great location, to choosing a home design that suits your lifestyle, our team is with you every step of the way.
We also provide exclusive access to affordable land across Perth and expert support in navigating grants and incentives for first home buyers so you can get into your new home sooner.