Dream home or broken dreams?

Imagine pouring your heart into designing your dream home, only to discover you can't afford to build it. Not even close.

Imagine you have paid thousands to your architect, yet the build cost estimates from your builder are completely out of reach for your budget!

This is the unfortunate reality for some people in New Zealand, and it happens too often. Why? Because they did not follow the right process, and pressed on with the full design process without first establishing the build costs. Can it be fixed? Yes it can.

For a new home project you must get an accurate cost estimate at the early stages of design. 

Let’s say that again. 

For a new home project you must get an accurate cost estimate at the early stages of design. 

We can’t stress the importance of this step enough.

If you have not yet chosen your builder at the time you want to get pricing there are other ways to go about it. A Quantity Surveyor is an independent cost-advisor who can help you with your budget estimate. Alternatively, if you are working with a Group Home Builder - these are typically called “abc homes” rather than the “abc builders” - then you should be able to get this information as part of their standard process. 

Hand in hand with obtaining a budget estimate is to find out what your budget is. This is where the bank, or a mortgage broker can help to estimate how much you can borrow, along with estimates for what your current property is worth (if you have one). 

The key to avoiding the heartbreak lies in seeking costing advice early, at the concept design stage. This might seem counterintuitive – surely detailed plans are needed for accurate estimates? However, early cost consultancy offers a wealth of benefits that can make all the difference in bringing your dream home to life, on budget.

Here's how:

Realistic Expectations:

Early cost advice provides a reality check. Architects and designers are naturally focused on creating stunning spaces, but a cost consultant can translate those ideas into feasible budget parameters. This allows for informed decision-making at the outset, prioritizing features that matter most within your financial limitations.

Value Engineering

Cost consultants aren't budget enforcers; they're creative collaborators. By analyzing the design, they can suggest alternative materials, construction methods, or layouts that achieve the desired aesthetic without blowing the budget. This "value engineering" ensures you get the most bang for your buck, maximizing quality within your financial constraints.

Avoiding Cost Creep

Without early costing, hidden expenses often emerge later in the project. Unexpected foundation issues, material availability, or complex building codes can all lead to cost overruns. Early cost consultants identify potential roadblocks and factor them into initial estimates, preventing nasty surprises down the line.

Informed Design Choices

Knowing the cost implications of different design decisions empowers you to make informed choices. For example, opting for a slightly smaller footprint or simplifying a roofline can significantly impact the budget. With early cost advice, these adjustments become strategic decisions, not last-minute compromises.

A Smoother Project Journey

Peace of mind is priceless. Early cost certainty reduces stress and delays, allowing you to confidently move forward with the project. Knowing the budget is realistic fosters trust with builders and prevents financial headaches throughout construction.

Involving a cost consultant (quantity surveyor or builder) at the concept design stage isn't an added expense; it's an investment in the future success of your project. 

It ensures you build a home that reflects your vision, without sacrificing your financial well-being. So, before you get swept away in architectural dreamscapes, seek the guidance of a cost consultant. 

Together, you can turn your dream home into a reality, on budget and on time.