New House & Land Spring 2017

new House&Land The best in home living

2017 Adviser Spring Edition 24 pages of New Homes, Design Ideas, Land Releases and Lifestyle Opportunities

Housing estates growing at a rapid rate

Residental estates are growing at a rapid rate across the region, and with the new and boosted government incentives now in play for first home buyers, the local statistics on new dwellings are on the rise, meaning local builders, building suppliers and other businesses in the industry are flourishing.

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

Your guide to New House & Land | 2017 Spring Edition PAGE 3

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A mortgage broker that cares about you Snatch up your piece of land to build your dream home PAGE 8

Now is the best time to buy PAGE 10

A unique design for your new home

For all your plastering needs

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Install a home security system when you build

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How to protect yourself when building a home

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Master Builders showcases green technology to help address housing issues

Smarter banking

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Latest colour trends for your home

First How Owner Grant now doubled in regional Victoria

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Spanline has got your covered

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Side retention blinds

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House and land packages: what to look for PAGE 23

Award winning homes from another era

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New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

A WISE CHOICE… Aussie Shepparton principal and senior mortgage broker, Tessa Vaitohi can help you make the finance solution that is a wise choice tailored to meet your individual needs.

Photo: Alicia Niglia.

A mortgage broker that cares about you AUSSIE Shepparton is home to a team of experienced and successful mortgage brokers, who are all fully qualified, members of the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia and are also individually accredited by a panel of lenders, including all the major banks.

The team is headed by principal and senior mortgage broker, Tessa Vaitohi, who is a Shepparton local.

Tessa said, “Safe, smart and special… these are our Aussie values. The Aussie brand is well known and reputed and our founder, Aussie John Symonds is the foremost consumer advocate in the industry.

“Our local Aussie broker’s customer service philosophy is simple. We care

about you. We want you to feel that you are in good hands, that the finance solution is a wise choice tailored to meet your individual needs.

“For Aussie Brokers, the relationship with the customer doesn’t end when the loan is approved. We continuously monitor the market and keep the customer abreast of any changes via a regular free home loan health check.”

Not all mortgage brokers are the same, and you know you are in good hands with Aussie having won Mortgage Broker of the Year for nine consecutive years since 2008.

To find out more about how Aussie Shepparton can “save you!” visit the team at 44 High Street, Shepparton or phone 5831 3013.

The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017 – Page 3

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

Snatch up your piece of land to build your dream home PROMPT AND EFFICIENT SERVICE… From left, the team of property experts at Kevin Hicks Real Estate, Terry Shiels, Gabi Everard, Andrew Pogue and Julie Ryan. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

WITH Shepparton currently undergoing a growing housing estate sector, many popular lots are being snatched up quickly.

From Grammar Park to the everexpanding Kialla Lakes Estate and popular Northlinks Estate in Tatura, Kevin Hicks Real Estate’s team of professional representatives can help you choose that perfect sized lot to start building your dream home.

Kevin Hicks Real Estate licensed real estate representative, Terry Shiels said, “At Grammar Park Stage 2 is selling fast and has lots ranging from 1,101m2 to 1,738m2.

We also have options for Stages 3 and 4 with lots available in Stage 3 from 805m2 to 1,455m2 and in Stage 4 from 1,184m2 to 1,688m2. There are still many lots to choose from.

Page 6 – The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017

“These blocks come with all town services including sewerage, natural gas and underground power, footpaths and town water.

“At the ever-developing Kialla Lakes Estate, there are some lots remaining in Stages 35a and 35b, with sizes ranging from 722m2 to 1,082m2.

“Stage 36 is currently being sold off the plan with lot sizes still available ranging from 800m2 to 1,050m2.

“There are still blocks remaining in Stage 9 of the popular Northlinks Estate. We are pre-selling stages 10 and 11 prior to title release, with strong sales already seeing many blocks snatched up.”

So if you’re planning to build the home you’ve always wanted at either Northlinks Tatura or the north or south end of Shepparton, give Kevin Hicks Real Estate a call on 5821 8388 or drop in to 228-232 Wyndham Street, Shepparton, as they have a wide range of blocks varying in size and price.

The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017 – Page 7

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

Now is the best time to buy

BUILDING YOUR DREAM… Local Hotondo Homes builder, Colin Mintern at the site of Hotondo Homes’ new display home, currently under construction on Sanctuary Drive in Kialla Lakes Estate. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

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WITH the new increased First Home Owners Grant now available in regional Victoria, local Hotondo Homes builder, Colin Mintern believes this will provide people with the best chance to get into their first home.

“Things can be pretty challenging for first home buyers.

The new grant is a great way to help you get into a new home sooner,” Colin said.

“When looking at your options, you need to compare apples with apples! Compare your chosen design and the inclusions to others that are similar and compare the costs. This way you can see the real value you get for your dollar!”

Hotondo Homes Shepparton has over 90 flexible floor plans and design solutions, offering buyers lots of choice.

With a beautiful new display home coming soon in the Kialla Lakes Estate, there has never been a better time to start your dream home journey.

Hotondo Homes display home at 82 Canterbury Avenue, Shepparton is open 7 days from 12pm to 5pm.

For further information on where to start with building your dream home, visit the team at Hotondo Homes today at their Canterbury Avenue display home or phone 5831 2250.

The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017 – Page 9

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

A unique design for your new home

YOUR DREAM HOME IS IN REACH… From Left, Cirillo Builders business co-owners, Paul Cirillo, Victor Cirillo and Cosi Cirillo, and apprentice carpenters, Pat Di Conza and Austin Bizzotto. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

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A TRULY uniquely built home is not seen as often these days, but being the envy of all of your friends and family, and getting exactly what you want out of your dream home at a reasonable price is not out of reach.

With over 40 years experience, local family owned business, Cirillo Builders are next generation craftsmen, who offer quality building at a comparable price.

Builder, Cosi Cirillo said, “We eliminate the extra costs involved when making changes to set plans by giving the client the freedom to custom design their own home on their own land.

We also have the option of providing house and land packages.

“Quality is our main objective so many upgrades have become included as standard such as brickwork above all windows, lasered metal plaster ceiling battens, sisalation/sarking to all roof coverings, 67x19 standard architrave and skirting boards, Enviroseal front door jambs, termite treated timber frames with Baltic laminated studs, three coats of Haymes premium paint, square set plaster ceilings to all living areas, remote control panel lifting garage doors and much more.

“We enjoy the journey with our clients from start to finish and have a hands-on approach on and off the site.

“Our new Display Home is open now at Lakeview Place in Mooroopna and is viewable by appointment only. We will also have another Display Home open in Sanctuary Drive, Kialla Lakes from next year. So give us a call and let us help you with building your dream home.”

For further information, or to drop in to view their new Display Home, contact Cirillo Builders on 0402 764 144, via cirillobuilders@bigpond.com or visit cirillobuilders.com.au

The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017 – Page 11

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

INCENTIVES TO BUILD… There has never ben a better time to build your dream home, with government incentives including the abolishment of stamp duty and the doubling of the First Home Owner Grant now in play. Photo: Supplied.

First Home Owner Grant now doubled in regional Victoria THE First Home Owner Grant has been doubled in regional Victoria, helping thousands of Victorians buy their first home.

Expected to help up to 6,000 first home buyers, the grant has increased from $10,000 to $20,000, commencing as of July 1, 2017.

The changes from the Andrews Labor Government will make it easier for young people in regional Victoria to build and live in their own community, as well as boosting local construction jobs and development.

The increased grant is available to first home buyers building new homes valued up to $750,000, and is an additional $50M investment in regional Victoria over the next three years.

At the same time, the Labor Government is working to make sure people in regional Victoria have the same opportunities as those in metropolitan Melbourne, underlined by the 2016/17 Victorian Budget, which delivered the highest regional infrastructure investment on record.

That includes investing in more reliable and frequent public transport, safer roads, better schools and hospitals and creating Page 12 – The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017

more local jobs.

The grant will be applicable to contracts signed from July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2020, at which time, the government will review the benefits for first home buyers and businesses in regional Victoria.

Premier, Daniel Andrews said, “This is a win for first home buyers in regional Victoria, and it’s a win for local jobs too.

“By doubling this grant, we’re giving young people in regional Victoria even more reason to live locally.

“Importantly, we’re not making these changes in isolation. As our regional communities grow, we’re also investing in public transport, local roads, and the schools and hospitals they need.”

Treasurer, Tim Pallas said, “This will make it easier for young people in regional Victoria to buy and live in their community.

While the Federal Government talks about housing affordability, this is what real action looks like.

“We want to ensure these communities grow and prosper and are supported by the best infrastructure and services Victoria has to offer.”

The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017 – Page 13

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

Side retention blinds

CREATE A COMFORTABLE AND INVITING SPACE… From left, Dollar Curtains & Blinds proprietor, Teena Hicks, sales consultants, Sam Farrell, Berni Magee and Karyn Shepherd and proprietor, Des Hicks can help you find the perfect blinds to create a comfortable and inviting space for your home. Photo: David Lee.

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IF you have always wanted a space that is considered another room of your home, but has all the added benefits of being outdoors, Side Retention Blinds are just what you need.

Having pride in our home is something we all aspire to as we tend to the garden, enjoy the space and create the necessary changes to make our home comfortable and attractive to live in.

There are times when we want to bring the outside in and transform our haven to be more spacious and have the advantage of outdoor living all year round.

Dollar Curtains & Blinds can help you enclose your outdoor areas of patios, balconies and verandahs with Side Retention Blinds. These blinds create another room or area to your home, providing insulation, UV protection, privacy and keeping out those dreaded insects. The blind fabric is tensioned between the channels also eliminating wind and rain. Side Retention Blinds can be operated both manually or motorised.

Dollar Curtains & Blinds business owner, Teena Hicks said, “There are many benefits to installing Side Retention Blinds to your home, and with spring and summer now upon us, there has never been a better time to look at your options.”

Drop into Dollar Curtains & Blinds at 638-640 Wyndham Street, Shepparton or phone 5831 5622 for a FREE measure and quote in all areas and talk to the team about your needs.

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2017 Spring Edition

House&LandGuide

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The Boulevard

Parkside Gardens

Connolly Park

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NORTH ORCHARD HAVEN 4 ESTATE

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Archer’s Field

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Seven Creeks Kialla Lakes

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Please note our new address

Innovation, Efficiency, Quality and Experience

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Proudly brought to you by

Chris Smith

& A S S OC I AT E S PTY LTD

• CIVIL ENGINEERS • LAND SURVEYORS • URBAN & REGIONAL PLANNERS • PROJECT MANAGERS Level 1 - 135 Fryers St, Shepparton T: (03) 5820 7700 Visiting Office: Shop 3, 11-13 Sydney St, Kilmore T: (03) 5781 1939

www.csmith.com.au

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

Smarter banking

NAB SMART ATMS… Enjoy the smarter banking at NAB with their coin change machines, coin deposit machine, express business deposit machine and ATM that accepts deposits and withdrawals up to $2,000 available 24 hours 7 days a week.

From left, assistant branch manager, Jacinta Rimato and branch manager, David Gillespie. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

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DID you know that $2,000 is now the new limit you can withdraw from your NAB account at any NAB or redi ATM? And don’t you hate lining up? Jump the queue and get your banking done straight away with a NAB Smart ATM. Benefits of a NAB Smart ATM include being able to skip the queue and bank when you want to - available 24/7, make deposits to your accounts with or without their NAB card,* deposit funds that will be immediately credited to your account,* make deposit payments with reference numbers linked Balance enquiry will also be available for NAB account holders or print a statement and withdraw cash. *Coins accepted at NAB Shepparton ATM. A NAB Home Loan lets our customers pick the reward that suits them. Paying off a home loan can be one of the biggest expenses in a customer’s life, and it often means they have to sacrifice some of the things they’d like to buy.

Therefore, NAB is offering up to 350,000 NAB Rewards points to those who take out an eligible home loan and banking bundle (NAB Rewards Credit Card and NAB Transaction Account) by December 31, 2017.

These points can be redeemed for a range of rewards they can use for the house or themselves. Up to $1,800 worth in vouchers.

Terms and conditions apply. Come in and see us at any of NAB’s branches or visit www.nab.com.au

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

Install a home security system when you build INSTALLING a home security system can be costly, but not installing one could cost you even more. Below we will take a look at the top reasons to install a home security system when you build.

PROTECT YOUR HOME AND FAMILY FROM INTRUDERS The biggest reason a home owner should consider installing a home security system is that it offers protection to family members from intruders.

homes having security systems differs based upon the features of the system (for instance, a system monitored by a central monitoring station should provide a larger discount compared to one that is not monitored) and the amount of coverage purchased initially and the company offering the insurance. In general, home owners receive a 10-20 percent discount on their insurance by having a functioning home alarm system installed.

IMPORTANCE OF SECURITY… When you are building your new home, it is important to ensure that you consider installing a home security system.

Photo: Madeliene Caccianiga.

PROTECT YOUR HOME AND FAMILY FROM FIRES The mention of home security systems tends to bring to mind home intrusion scenarios; however, these alarm systems also provide additional protection barriers for home owners.

While many home owners rely upon smoke alarms to warn them of a fire outbreak, home security systems offer an early warning system.

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING Carbon monoxide poisoning is caused by a colourless and odourless gas that is found in combustion fumes. Within the home, carbon monoxide can be released from stoves, burning wood or charcoal, heating systems and gas ranges among other things.

Carbon monoxide leaks can be discovered via carbon monoxide detectors. These small devices resemble smoke detectors and can be purchased alone or as part of a home security system. Similar to a home alarm-monitored smoke detector, the benefit of having these devices installed as part of a home security system is that it provides emergency service dispatch as well as calling paramedics able to treat symptoms of CO poisoning.

PROTECT YOUR VALUABLES When burglars enter our home however, our feelings towards our possessions are the furthest thing from their minds, as they focus on the retail value of what they are taking. For most homeowners, the presence of a home alarm system is enough to deter burglars but when it is not, it serves an additional function.

As well as signalling authorities that the home has been burgled and increasing the chances that intruders will be caught, the cameras installed with many modern alarm systems catch the intruders in the act.

HAVING SOMEONE ELSE TO MONITOR YOUR HOME One of the biggest benefits to having a monitored home security system is that it provides constant monitoring even when you are unable to do so yourself. Leaving town for business or going on vacation can be nerve wracking even with a home security alarm, but with monitoring services there is always someone to respond to emergency situations.

SAVE ON HOME OWNERS INSURANCE The cost of home owners insurance is generally not taken into consideration by first time home owners when buying their home, but a significant discount is generally given to home owners with home security systems installed. The total discount given as a result of The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017 – Page 17

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

For all your plastering needs

EXPERIENCE AND KNOW-HOW… PlastaMasta Shepparton can help you complete the look of any room. From left, PlastaMasta Shepparton manager, Peter Lehne and truck driver/storeman, Phill Watts. Photo: Supplied.

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QUALITY plaster work can complete the look and feel of any room, which is an important thing to consider when building a new home. What better place to get your plaster supplies, tools and insulation than from locals who have experience and know-how.

PlastaMasta Shepparton not only has a great range of plaster products, but also stocks a large range of plastering tools to suit any application.

Manager, Peter Lehne said, “From fire shield to normal plaster or even ceiling tiles, there are huge variations in the types of plaster used for different applications, so it’s important to understand the needs of the customer so that we can use the right materials for the right job.

“There is also a great range of cornices available from standard paper cornices right through to hand-moulded, ornamental cornices. Each style of cornice is designed to complete the look of the room.

“We also supply for Dennis Family Homes and JG King Homes locally, so if you are building, drop in and see us.

“Whether the client is wanting something modern or contemporary with sharp lines, clean profiles and bold curves, or more classic looks, with hand moulded detail, including cornice work, ceiling roses, arches, keystones and panels, there are many options to choose from.”

For more information, call in and see the team at PlastaMasta Shepparton, 7969 Goulburn Valley Highway, Shepparton or phone 5823 2088.

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

Spanline has got you covered WITH spring comes the warmer weather and that means more time spent outdoors. Patios and verandahs, carports and shelters, glass and screen enclosures – Spanline Shepparton and Goulburn Valley has built a reputation for creating outdoor spaces and pride themselves on tailoring areas specifically to customers’ needs and their individual lifestyles.

Local design consultant, Rick Brun said, “The quality and durability of Spanline’s fully engineered, all-steel verandah roofing products are one of the reasons we have been changing the way Australian’s play for more than 30 years. And with finance available through Once, getting that outdoor area you have always dreamed of is now more attainable than ever.”

Rick will meet with you at your home and help to unveil the potential of your outdoor area. Completely free, and with no obligation, why not book a design appraisal and explore the possibilities with a tailored quote?

“We all love the outdoor lifestyle and Spanline makes it easy to enjoy it even more,” Rick said.

Now is the ideal time to give your life the outdoor entertaining space it deserves.

So what are you waiting for? To arrange a free on-site design and quote at a time convenient to you call Spanline Shepparton on 5821 6524 and let Spanline inspire your lifestyle today.

CREATING THAT PERFECT SPACE… Spanline Shepparton and Goulburn Valley has built a reputation for creating outdoor spaces and pride themselves on tailoring areas specifically to customers’ needs and their individual lifestyles.

Photo: Supplied.

The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017 – Page 19

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

ADD A LITTLE COLOUR TO YOUR LIFE… Stay up-to-date with the latest colour trends for your home. Photos: Supplied.

Latest colour trends for your home WITH many of us looking to slow down and find more balance in our lives, design will shift from the prescriptive to the more personalised in the coming year. Raw textures and soft neutrals will dominate, juxtaposed with rich, luxurious green and playful and tropical brights; a broad-reaching palette that’s all about individual expression.

Inspired by global trends research, it’s clear that 2018 will see an emphasis on balance,

connection and community.

As we let go of the idea of perfection in both our homes and other aspects in our lives, we are instead seeking to create balanced, harmonious interiors that stimulate the senses, while simultaneously allowing us to relax and retreat.

Our homes should tell our stories, connecting us to both the past and the future. Colour is a wonderful way to express our personal tastes and passions.

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So how are 2018 trends different from the past? Natural, earthy colours and textures will be coming to the fore and there will be even more of an appreciation for the splendour of imperfection. At the same time, we’ll also see an inspiring travel palette emerging, filled with palm prints, happiness and visual delights.

Immersing yourself in this uplifting world of colour can be transformative, lifting the soul and making you feel more spontaneous and creative.

Soft, greenish-greys and neutral pinks predicted to be popular in 2018 as they provide the perfect base to experiment with many of the bolder brights coming through.

We’ll also continue to see darker colours and striking hues being used in small doses to add dashes of drama to the home.

Responding to our desire to slow down and appreciate the beauty in natural textures and simple forms, warm shades of leather and putty combined with cool grey-green will be a go to.

Reflecting our growing need to connect with our community in an age of political upheaval, there will be the introduction of warm, inviting tones of terracotta, burnished red and faded green, celebrating traditional folklore and cultural diversity.

In an age when charting our global adventures on social media is the new competitive sport, the drive to experience the sights, sounds and smells of distant shores has never been more inviting. This can be achieved through a collection of saturated, summery brights that make you think of tropical beaches and cocktails by the pool.

With intelligent innovation and smart

Have fun with trend colours

Keen to introduce some on-trend brights into your home, but uncertain where to begin? Start with a small area or a simple nook. Nothing transforms faster than colour and the more intense the stronger the transformation.

Why not try

• For a subtle effect try a soft pink paired with a neutral grey-green.

• Make a small space pop with terracotta; or, for a moodier feel, consider a charcoal.

• For an exciting and unexpected combination, combine a teal with a greenish yellow hue.

• Add a touch of drama and decadence to your home with deeper hues.

technology transforming our day-to-day lives, we find ourselves seeking greater meaning in the things we surround ourselves with forming new connections with the past.

Think rich, decadent green, greyed-off purple and burnt rose.

Changing one or more colours in your home will keep your interiors up-to-date.

The key to making these new hues work in your home is to understand the look and feel you’re hoping to create.

Establishing this will give you more confidence balancing the deeper and brighter colours with the more muted shades.

And of course these trend colours will work beautifully with whites too, so have some fun and experiment.

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

How to protect yourself when building a home BUILDING a home will likely be the single biggest investment you ever make. To protect yourself from rogue building or plumbing practitioners, here are a few important steps the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) recommends you take before and during construction. engaged them.

5. Read the information on Consumer Affairs Victoria’s website before signing a contract 1.

Confirm your building practitioners are with your builder, to ensure it meets legal registered and that plumbing work is requirements. A sample contract can carried out by, or under the supervision of a be downloaded from Consumer Affairs licensed plumber via the VBA’s online Find Victoria’s website. a Practitioner tool (available at top of this page). Ask to see their VBA ID card – which 6. Ensure your builder gives you a domestic building insurance policy or a certificate all practitioners should carry. of currency covering your property before 2. Ask to see physical examples of their work construction starts. The builder’s name on and to speak with previous clients. the contract should match the name on the 3. Understand the role of the VBA and your insurance policy. building surveyor. Building surveyors provide independent oversight of building work during construction, issue the occupancy permit and can direct the builder to fix It is extremely important to develop good defective work. It is essential to select a communication lines with your builder and building surveyor who is independent of your building surveyor – seek regular updates from builder. both practitioners.

4.

Appoint either your council’s municipal Make sure any variations to your plans and building surveyor or a private building associated changes in price are documented surveyor of your choice. If you ask for quotes and agreed in writing by you and the builder to from multiple private building surveyors, avoid disputes down the track. ensure they know this is what you are doing Find out when the mandatory inspection so they do not wrongly assume you have stages are for your house and ask your builder

Before your project starts

During construction

and building surveyor how they went.

You can ask your building surveyor to undertake as many additional inspections as you require. While extra inspections will cost you more, they are worthwhile to ensure you are fully informed, and so potential issues can be discussed and resolved immediately.

Take regular photographs – this will ensure you and your builder have a record of the project’s progress if you need to resolve issues.

Top seven warning signs of an unregistered builder 1. Your builder is not a member of an industry body.

2. They do not ask you to enter into a contract before the project starts.

3. They ask for too much money up front or at each set payment stage. By law in Victoria, a deposit can be no more than five per cent of the total project cost (projects over $20,000).

4. They aren’t prepared to show you what homes they have recently built or to provide you with the opportunity to talk to some of their previous clients.

5. They cannot or will not show you their VBA ID card.

6. No results are found when you type the builder’s or plumber’s name into the VBA’s Find a Practitioner tool.

7. You are not given a copy of your builder’s domestic building insurance policy or a certificate of currency covering your property before construction.

The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017 – Page 21

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

Master Builders showcases green technology to help address housing issues MASTER Builders Association of Victoria convenes its 11th annual Green Living Conference to a sold‐out audience at the Building Leadership Simulation Centre in South Melbourne.

The conference focuses on the continued development of building technologies that not only support stewardship of the environment, but offer solutions for some of Victoria’s most looming housing problems.

Master Builders Association of Victoria CEO, Radley de Silva said, “It’s widely agreed that sustainable building practice is the right thing to do for the environment, but it can also help to solve practical crises that Victorians are facing today, like housing affordability and prolonged planning delays.

“Homes and their components can now be printed three‐ DEVELOPING THE BUILDING SECTOR… The Master Builders Association of Victoria held its 11th annual Green Living Conference, which focussed on the continued development of building technologies that not only support stewardship of the environment, but offer solutions for some of Victoria’s most looming housing problems. Photo: Supplied.

dimensionally, greatly accelerating the construction process, and pre‐fabrication technology allows components to be assembled offsite with much less waste and much greater precision,” Mr de Silva said.

“This precision and control offers the opportunity to fast‐ track aspects of the building process, thus lowering the building costs and improving housing affordability. But what remains to be addressed are the continued delays in the planning and building permits process, the documented slowness of which currently costs both homeowners and builders more time and money for the housing Victorians need.

“Sustainable building practices, like pre‐fabrication, also offer employment opportunities to workers displaced by the closure of auto manufacturing plants. Retraining skilled workers for new careers in building strengthens the Victorian economy.

“As the state’s second‐largest full‐time employer, and contributing more than 40 percent to the Victorian economy, the building and construction sector recognises it plays a major role in offering employment opportunities to Victorians eager to work,” Mr de Silva said.

House and land packages: what to look for HOUSE and land packages are all the rage and are usually the cheaper way to break into the property market, but there are a few things you need to really look at before buying into a package and beginning the building process.

THE RIGHT ESTATE It’s important to ensure you pick the right estate or ‘community’ to build in. Start with your lifestyle and make sure the community you choose meets your needs. Pay attention to infrastructure nearby, particularly transport.

Remember, you will be living as a part of this community for a while, so you want to be sure it is right for you and your family.

New estate checklist: • Travel time to work, family and friends • Community design – takes advantage of the landscape and incorporates social infrastructure like childcare centres and schools • Good transport and shopping options nearby

• Open public space like parks and walking trails

THE LOT Typically, blocks start at 300sqm and rise to up to around 600sqm with smaller lots typically close to open spaces, convenience retail and collector roads.

The slope or grading of the lot is also an important consideration, with the flatter blocks best for the volume style builders, while sloping blocks usually require a bespoke build, which is more expensive.

Lot checklist: • Shape of lot suited to the house you intend to build • Grading – flat for the designs of

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volume builders, sloped for spilt level but will need bespoke design • Orientation – Do you want the backyard facing the afternoon sun?

• Topography – elevated if you want a balcony with views • Smaller lots for a smaller houses closer to parks and retail • Unstable soil and underground rock – these can ratchet up building costs

THE RIGHT BUILDER The best way to find a builder is to visit a range of display homes on your favoured estate.

Once you have found a house with the design you like, it’s time to talk business with the builder. Be sure to enquire about the following: • What is included and what isn’t. Display homes feature the best fittings, finishes and appliances, which may not be

included in the standard package • Layout. Most buyers like to make changes but these can prove problematic for the builders • Construction. When will it commence and how long will it take • Environment features. The cost of power, water and gas is likely to keep on rising, so ask which sustainability features are incorporated into the design • Before committing to a builder, ask to see examples of houses they have completed in the last two years and see if you can talk to the owners. This will give you an insight into the process and how happy the owners are with their house.

Builder checklist: • Are they licensed?

• Do they have builder’s insurance?

• Have they checked the lot for suitability?

• Have you visited recent projects?

New House&Land | 2017 Spring Edition

Award winning homes from another era

IF YOU are a fan of Victorian and Federation homes, Harkaway Homes specialise in the reproduction of homes from an era that is much loved by many.

Harkaway Homes are a multi-award winning company, having won awards with the Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing Awards for four years in succession.

Harkaway Homes general manager, Stephen Cahill said, “Our display in Pakenham is a Gabled Victorian Traditional series home of 21 squares and we are very pleased with it. Additionally this home has one of our hugely popular Coolgardie (Alfresco) rooms at the rear.

“Our head office building consists of a cutaway front of one of our Pavilion Roofline homes that houses our reception area as well as a photographic display of our homes.

“Upstairs we have our offices and fantastic display areas housing our eight magnificent ranges in images both as large posters and massive ultra high definition monitors featuring slideshows of our country and city styled homes. We also have an interactive theatre featuring various video presentations on what we offer.

“As designers, we offer a variety of Victorian and early federation ranges with “Olde Worlde” rooflines. Our floor plans are 100 percent flexible, allowing you to build a home suited to your lifestyle. Your architect quality Harkaway Home will be perfectly profiled to sit on your land with presence and to be admired by all.

“Harkaway Homes service clients throughout Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania and Southern Queensland and provide the combined services of both designers and suppliers.”

For further information, drop into Harkaway Homes’ display home at 57 National Avenue, Pakenham, phone 5943 2388 or visit harkawayhomes.com.au

A COMFORTABLE HOME… Harkaway Homes offers a variety of Victorian and early federation ranges with “Olde Worlde” rooflines. Photo: Melanie Spencer.

The Adviser, New House & Land – September 2017 – Page 23