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Building vs. Buying: Why House and Land Packages Are a Great Option for Perth Home Buyers

Published:

November 7, 2023

For many potential homeowners, deciding between building a brand-new home or buying a pre-existing one can be daunting. This decision is intensified when you consider Perth’s ever-evolving property market, a unique landscape filled with opportunities and challenges.

As the city’s appeal continues to grow, so does the intrigue around house and land packages. Are they the right choice for Perth home buyers? 

In this article, we’ll delve deep into the world of house and land packages, highlighting their benefits and examining why they might be the perfect solution for those looking to find their dream home in Perth.

Advantages of New House and Land Packages

When it comes to purchasing a home, finances often play a pivotal role in the decision-making process. New house and land packages offer several financial advantages that can make them a compelling choice for many prospective homeowners.

Financial Benefits

  1. Potential Savings on Stamp Duty: Unlike buying a pre-existing property where you pay stamp duty on the total purchase price, with house and land packages, you only pay stamp duty on the land component before the house is built. This can result in significant savings, especially in locations where property values are high.

  2. Tailored Financing Options: Many developers and builders collaborate with financial institutions to provide tailored financing solutions for house and land packages. This can mean lower deposit requirements, interest rate discounts, or more flexible loan terms tailored specifically for those opting for these packages.

  3. Fixed Price Contracts: One of the common fears of building a new home is the potential for unforeseen costs that can blow the budget. However, many house and land packages come with fixed-price contracts. This ensures that you know exactly what you’re paying for upfront, with no hidden costs or surprise expenses cropping up during the construction process.

Customisation

  1. Designing a Home That Fits Personal Needs and Aesthetics: Unlike buying a pre-existing home that comes with its own set of design imprints, opting for a house and land package provides the canvas to create a personalised living space. Whether it’s an open-concept kitchen for those who love to entertain, a home office bathed in natural light, or a playroom for the little ones, the choices are virtually limitless.

  2. Choosing from a Variety of Floor Plans and Fittings: Builders often present a range of floor plans designed to cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Beyond the foundational layout, homeowners also get to select the fittings and finishes – from the type of tiles in the bathroom to the kitchen countertop material to the colour schemes of the rooms. This ensures that every corner of the house resonates with the homeowner’s personality and taste.

Modern Amenities and Design

  1. Contemporary Designs and Modern Facilities: Most house and land packages are based on the latest architectural trends. This means homes that make the best use of space, offer plenty of natural light, and feature designs that cater to modern living.  Additionally, these homes often include state-of-the-art kitchen appliances, modern bathroom fixtures, and other up-to-date amenities that match the expectations of today’s homeowners.

  2. Enhanced Energy Efficiency and Eco-friendly Options: Modern homes are often designed with the environment in mind. Many new house and land packages prioritise energy efficiency, boasting features like double-glazed windows, solar panels, and high-quality insulation. This not only helps reduce the carbon footprint but also translates to significant savings on energy bills.

Community and Infrastructure

  1. Planned Communities with Essential Amenities: Many house and land packages are part of master-planned communities. This means the neighbourhood is thoughtfully designed from the outset to include a range of essential amenities. From parks and playgrounds for families to recreational centres for the active and even shopping precincts for convenience – everything is often within arm’s reach.

  2. New Areas with Modern Infrastructure: Investing in a house and land package often means moving into a newer suburb or development area. These regions benefit from the latest in infrastructure planning. Wide roads, efficient public transport options, safe pedestrian pathways, and even dedicated cycling lanes are not uncommon. This modern approach ensures ease of mobility and a higher standard of living.

WOW Homes Still renting Rent vs Buy calculator Perth

Why People Opt for Buying an Existing Home Instead

While house and land packages offer numerous advantages, as with any significant decision, there are potential drawbacks to consider. However, weighing these against the broader context and potential counterarguments is essential.

Time Investment

Building a home from scratch takes longer than purchasing a pre-existing one. This means waiting for construction to finish before you can move in, which might not be ideal for those on tight schedules or with immediate housing needs.

Unforeseen Challenges

Every construction project can face unforeseen challenges, be it weather-related delays, unexpected site complications, or changes in material availability. These can be stressful and might affect the timeline or even the budget.

Tips for Perth Homebuyers Considering House and Land Packages

Choosing the Right Builder

Choosing the right builder is one of the most critical decisions when opting for a house and land package. The builder you choose can directly influence the quality, design, and timely completion of your dream home. Here are some things to consider:

Reputation

Before committing, research the builder’s track record. Look for testimonials and online reviews. A builder with a history of satisfied customers is likely to deliver a commendable job.

Transparent Communication

A good builder will be open and transparent about all aspects of the project, from costs and inclusions to potential challenges and timelines. Clear communication is essential to ensure there are no unexpected surprises down the line.

Accreditations and Licences

Ensure that the builder holds all necessary licenses and accreditations, which are indicators of their professionalism and adherence to industry standards. This can also provide some assurance about the legality and safety of their building practices.

Understanding the Contract

The contract for a house and land package outlines the terms, responsibilities, and commitments of both the buyer and the builder. Ensuring clarity on these points can save you from potential pitfalls and surprises down the road.

Recognising Inclusions and Exclusions

Not every feature or fitting that’s showcased in the display home might be included in the base price of the package. It’s essential to clearly identify what’s part of the deal and what comes at an additional cost. From appliances to landscaping and even certain finishes – be sure you’re fully aware of what you’re getting.

Timeline and Milestones

The contract should detail the expected timeline for the project, breaking down various milestones. Understand these stages and what’s expected at each point, both in terms of construction progress and any payments you might need to make.

Warranties and Guarantees

Get clarity on the warranties provided, not just for the overall structure but also for appliances, fixtures, and finishes. This can give you peace of mind about the longevity and quality of your investment.

Location and Future Planning

Choosing the right location for your house and land package is more than just about the view or proximity to amenities. It’s about envisioning the future growth of the area and understanding how this can influence the value and enjoyment of your property in the years to come. 

Research the Master Plan

Many house and land packages are part of master-planned communities. Get insights into the developer’s vision for the area, including proposed parks, shopping districts, schools, and other amenities. Understanding the broader plan can give you a sense of the community’s future evolution.

Assess Infrastructure Development

An area with planned infrastructure upgrades, such as new roads, public transport routes, or utility expansions, can indicate anticipated growth. Such developments not only improve accessibility but can also boost property values in the long run.

Local Amenities and Services

Proximity to schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centres, and recreational spaces adds convenience and can be particularly valuable if you’re planning to raise a family or looking for a long-term residence.

Projected Growth and Property Value

Research the property value trends in the desired location. An area with steady appreciation could be a sign of its growing demand and potential for a good return on investment in the future.

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Final Thoughts

Deciding between building and buying is pivotal in every homebuyer’s journey. House and land packages in Perth present a compelling option, blending the allure of customisation with the benefits of modern designs, community planning, and potentially rewarding financial considerations. 

While there are factors to weigh and decisions to be made – from choosing the right builder to understanding contractual intricacies – the path to a personalised dream home may be closer than many realise.

If you’re looking at kickstarting your home ownership journey, look no further than WOW Homes. Contact us today to learn more about our house and land packages.

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