When it comes to the great Australian dream, nothing quite beats making a house a home. If you are considering options like many Riverina residents, you will appreciate the weight of the build or renovate decision. Do you wipe the slate clean and embark on a brand-new project designed to your exact specifications? Or you seize the opportunities presented in a space you already know and love?
There is plenty to consider indeed. Perhaps most notably is the reality that renovating or building frames up as one life’s largest investment decisions. Cost per square metre aside, much goes into translating a dream into reality. From architectural and structural planning through to procurement, construction, and finishing; it is no surprise that most of us turn to the experts. In this case, that means engaging the services of a reputable and experienced builder.
As masters of residential construction, Wagga’s builders specialise in the completion of extensions, renovations, and new builds. Their role can encompass the delivery of individual facets through to complete turn-key solutions. Ultimately, builders are bastions of knowledge; positioned to provide suggestions and recommendations that suit your needs, timeframe, and budget.
Extend and renovate or knock down and build?
One of the first key decisions an experienced builder can assist with is the decision on whether to extend and renovate or knock down and build. By increasing the size of a home to suit a way of life, many owners can capitalise on the advantages of staying put.
Should renovation be on the cards, selecting a builder with credentials in this area is key. A renovation specialist will explore opportunities to increase space, improve functionality and enhance liveability – all while maintaining the character of your home.
A new build specialist presents a raft of different benefits. From the latest in design trends, new materials, and ways of configuring a space. Either way, a proven track record in your area of need will help along this journey of exploration and discovery.
What makes a great builder?
Engaging the services of a specialised building company is a great way to ensure your next project is completed on time and on budget. The following aspects may help to assess any potential building candidates:
- Clear credentials. When evaluating potential builders, the nature of their credentials should be at the top of your list. Here, the appropriate qualifications, licensing, and insurance cover are key. At a minimum, your builder should attain a certificate IV in Building and Construction and hold an industry white card. Additionally, your builder must operate with a state government issued builder’s licence pertaining to the nature of work desired. Finally, ensure your builder is covered by appropriate insurances such homeowners warranty, public liability, workers compensation or contracts cover.
- Industry accreditation. A great way to assess your shortlisted builder is to check on their industry accreditation. In New South Wales, the Master Builders Association is the core industry body. Membership indicates that your trade is not only qualified, licensed, and insured – but also adheres to ethical guidelines and industry standards.
- Experience with your chosen building needs. Many builders specialise in certain facets of building and renovation, so finding one with experience in your need is key. Some will focus more on small scale modifications, others on larger renovations, and of course building a new. Consider the needs of your project and compare to a builder’s portfolio of finished projects. Even enquire about visiting some if you can for added peace of mind.
- Quality assurance. When it comes to building, assurance of a quality outcome is crucial. Shortcuts, jobs half done, and expedited stages can all negatively impact the end quality of your build. While minor fixes are the norm, no one need be faced with months of makegood work due to poor quality. Always check your builder’s current insurance, warranty, and be clear on what would happen in the event of an issue.
- Project planning. Even the smallest renovations require meticulous project planning. Things like approvals and permits, materials procurement, scheduling trades, and contingency are all key. Before embarking on a project be sure you are comfortable with any timelines provided, and potential impacts therein. Moreover, consider their level of professionalism and communication style, as these can all help to move a project along.
The best builders and renovators in Wagga
Region Riverina has combed through online reviews and recommendations to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Wagga series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Riverina and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Paul Bourne Homes
With an established reputation that spans over three decades, Paul Bourne Homes are known for their design and construction services for renovations and new build projects. Offering single or double storey homes, town homes, or villas, they are committed to quality and workmanship that is second to none.
Their qualified staff assist with the entire process from drafting and design through to the selection of finishes and more. With an employ of local trades and a focus on value Paul Bourne Homes stands as one of the regions best.
Hurst Homes
Established in 1990, local builder Hurst Homes have a reputation for attention to detail and quality in their new home builds. As a regional award-winning building company, they offer design and construction services coupled with land or without.
Offering customised building options, comprehensive quotes, fixed price contracts, a step-by-step design and selection process, and after care they are a great choice.
Steven Purcell had this to say on Google, “Peter, Deb, and Bella did an awesome job helping us create our beautiful new home. We have built twice before but Hurst Homes was definitely the easiest. Their help guidance and professionalism made our building experience a pleasure. Would recommend them to anyone looking to build.”
Matt Jenkins Homes
As an established Riverina builder, Matt Jenkins Homes are known for their quality designs and award-winning homes. As a respected name in the local building industry they offer clients the security that comes with working alongside a larger building company.
With a lead designer, builder, and project manager, their flexible and innovative process opens the door to greater client involvement and control. For a home tailored to suit your lifestyle look to Matt Jenkins Homes.
Nathan McPherson left this review on Google, “Brilliant customer service. Very competitively priced. Beat volume builders on price service and design.”
Wayne Carter Homes
Wayne Carter Homes are a local, award-winning building company with over thirty years of experience within the industry. They pride themselves on a focus on details, using highly skilled local tradesmen that share their vision and standards.
What sets them apart is their connection with clients. Owners Wayne and Peta manage the end-to-end build process directly, effectively becoming your project managers and supervisors. In overseeing all aspects, each build is treated as if it were their own.
Sarah-Wentworth Perry shared this review on Google, “I could not be more thrilled with my beautiful award-winning home built by Wayne Carter Homes. Best builder ever... this is the second home Wayne and Peta have built for me and I am so happy. The only builder I would choose for my future homes.”
PAH Innovative Construction
PAH Innovative Construction specialise in the design and construction of custom homes in and around Wagga Wagga. Renowned for their originality, they are proud to uphold a strong reputation for completing difficult construction projects, superior in design, sustainability and innovation.
We are committed to achieving complete client satisfaction by creating a transparent and flexible building experience that is truly exceptional. Working together with our clients to develop and construct highly customised and distinctive designs is our specialty.
Peta Gilholme had this to say on Google, “Brilliant builders, exceptional attention to detail, highest quality of workmanship and a delight to deal with.”
Maslin Homes
Locally owned and operated, Maslin Homes offer drafting, design and building services with land or without. Boasting over twenty years of experience in the building industry, Glenn Maslin and this team are known for their ability to provide beautiful turnkey solutions.
Specialising in single level 3 to four bedroom and larger acreage homes, they prioritise their clients building experience and work hard to deliver value. With a display centre conveniently located at Fitzmaurice Street they are certainly worth a visit.
Bret Power shared this sentiment on Google, “So far so good... new build is nearing its commencement. Kate has been really helpful so far... let's hope the build process is just as good.”
Your experience with builders in Wagga
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the builders listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to build a home?
Well, it all depends really. Various factors come into the equation such as location and inclination of the block, accessibility, the complexity of the design and construction, choice of materials, along with things like inclusions and fixtures. Sources suggest that average build costs range from around $1,400 /m2 for a smaller home using budget materials to more than $4,000m/2 for an architecturally designed four-bedroom double storey home using higher quality finishes. For a quote befitting your needs speak to your local builder.
What is a fixed price building contract?
A fixed price or lump sum contract is a construction agreement whereby a builder agrees to complete a project for a set cost. That said variations or matters outside of the control of a builder such as natural disasters, are generally excluded, and may incur additional costs. It is always worth seeking professional advice to ascertain whether this contract style is right for you.
What is a build variation?
Any changes made to agreed design or construction plans are usually referred to as variations. Variations can include things like new additions, position, and dimension changes, along with material, fixture, and finish changes. Variations can impact costs along with timelines, so do work with your builder to prioritise what is most important.
What is HBCF home warranty insurance?
HBCF short for Home Building Compensation Fund, a form of insurance cover and a statutory requirement for any build project over the value of $20,0000. Acting as a safety net for homeowners in New South Wales, it ensures they are protected from financial loss due to incomplete and defective work carried out by a builder or tradesperson who disappears, dies, becomes insolvent or has their licence suspended. It is generally undertaken and paid for by the builder and invoiced to clients at contract signing stage.
How long does it take to build a home?
Generally, most homes are completed within 9 to 12 months from commencement, with some more bespoke builds extending to 18 months or more. While a builder may strive to complete each project on time, factors beyond their control like weather, approvals, variations, and supply issues may cause delays.