Guide to managing build costs

Talking openly about your budget might feel uncomfortable, but it’s the best way to set yourself up for a smooth, stress-free build. Amy explains that some people worry that if they reveal their number, their builder will work to that number – pushing them to spend every last dollar. 

“In reality, being upfront about your budget helps create a home that works for you from the very start, rather than one that needs to be cut back later,” she says. 

“If we know from the start that your budget is $750,000, we can help you achieve the best outcome within that. And that’s much better than designing something for $900,000 and then struggling to scale it back.”

Without clear budget conversations early on, it’s easy to end up with a plan that doesn’t match what you can actually afford. That’s when tough compromises start – downsizing rooms, cutting features you love, or facing unexpected costs that push you over budget. Instead, starting with a clear, realistic budget means every choice is made with purpose.

Price per square metre is one of the most common ways people compare build costs – but it’s also one of the easiest ways to get caught out. 

On the surface, it seems like a simple way to gauge value between builders, but in reality, it rarely gives a true picture of what you’re paying for.

Amy explains that one of the reasons it can be so misleading is that key cost factors – like kitchens, bathrooms, and materials – aren’t spread evenly across a home. 

A three-bedroom house with two bathrooms and a high-spec kitchen will always cost more per square metre than a larger home with a simpler layout,” she says. “Yet, when people see a lower total price, they often assume they’re getting a better deal”.

Consider two similar-looking house and land packages: House A is priced at $820,000, while House B costs $980,000. At first glance, House A seems like the better deal – but a closer look tells a different story.

• House A is 140m², with one bathroom, one living area, and a single garage.
• House B is 210m², with two bathrooms, two living areas, and a double garage.

When you divide the cost by the size, House A actually has a higher price per square metre – it just looks cheaper upfront.

“That’s why it’s so important to look beyond the marketing figures,” says Amy. “The real value of a home isn’t in a square metre calculation – it’s in what you’re actually getting for your money.”

Buying land is often the first step in the home-building journey, but choosing the wrong site can blow out your build cost. A site that looks perfect at first glance might come with expensive challenges. That’s why getting expert advice before you buy is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make.

A sloping site, for example, might be cheaper to buy but often requires costly excavation, retaining walls, and specialised foundations. Poor foundations can also drive up costs. These issues aren’t always obvious – unless you know what to look for.

Every Landmark Homes team has an in-depth understanding of land in their region. They know the common issues in different areas, where unexpected costs might arise, and what’s needed to get a site build ready. As part of their service, they offer free initial site assessments, helping you understand what’s possible within your budget before you commit to a purchase.

For even greater peace of mind, Landmark also recommends a geotechnical (geotech) assessment, which provides a detailed analysis of the soil conditions and foundation requirements. It’s a small investment that could save you thousands by identifying potential issues before they become costly problems.

Smart ways to maximise your budget

Building a home is all about making smart choices – knowing where to save, where to invest, and how to avoid unnecessary costs. Amy says that with the right approach, you can get more home for your money without compromising on quality. Here are some of her top tips:

Keep it simple

The more complex the design, the higher the cost. Extra corners, angles, and roofline changes mean more framing, cladding, and labour – all of which add up.

“A square or rectangular floor plan is always more cost-effective than, say, an H-shaped design,” says Amy. “Even with the same floor area, a home with more external walls and angles will be more expensive to build.”

Two-storey homes also cost more than single-storey ones due to added structural support and materials. But if land size is a constraint, building up can still be a smart way to maximise space without buying a larger, more expensive section.

Avoid mid-build changes

Making design changes during construction is one of the fastest ways to blow your budget. “Even shifting a window or swapping plumbing fixtures can lead to extra costs, delays, and knock-on effects for other trades,” says Amy.

The best way to avoid this? Lock in your design and selections before the build begins. Taking the time to plan properly upfront saves time, money, and stress later.

Knowing where to splurge and where to save makes a big difference. Some high-end finishes are worth the investment, while others can be swapped for budget-friendly alternatives that still look great.

“It’s all about balance,” says Amy. “Maybe you swap a $2,000 light fixture for a $300 one so you can spend more on a feature that truly matters to you.”

Flooring is another area where costs vary. “Many assume polished concrete is cheaper because it’s just the slab, but that’s not the case. Specialised concrete mixes, polishing, and protective coverings mean it often costs the same as a quality floating floor.”

Having a clear list of must-haves versus nice-to-haves helps with smart trade-offs. If premium tapware is a priority, you might opt for a budget-friendly benchtop. If a feature wall is a must, standard skirting boards could be a good swap. Making these choices early helps you stay on budget without sacrificing style.

Use expert advice – it’s free

You don’t have to navigate budget decisions alone. Landmark’s team has years of experience helping clients get the best value without unexpected costs – and their advice comes at no extra charge.

Before the build begins, Landmark’s design consultants go through every detail, ensuring all costs are accounted for upfront. With expert guidance, you can make informed choices, stretch your budget further, and build a home that’s both beautiful and financially manageable.

“A well-designed home isn’t just about budgeting,” says Amy. “It’s about creating harmony – making sure everything flows, inside and out, so that when you walk through the door, it just feels right.”

With the right team, planning, and approach, you’re not just building a house – you’re creating a home that truly reflects you.

Keen to know your costs?

Building your dream home might be more affordable than you think. Whether you're exploring a Design and Build option or starting with a Ready to Build plan, Landmark Homes provides clear, upfront pricing – with no hidden surprises.

Get in touch with your local Landmark Homes team today for a free site assessment and consultation. They’ll walk you through your options, break down the costs, and help you make informed decisions to get the best value for your budget.

Start your journey today – your dream home is closer than you think.