10 Most Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How long does it take to build a Home?

From initial planning and consent process through to completion of build you are typically looking at 10-12 months. There are a few factors that can extend this timeline like design complexity, weather, size of build and the selected site. If you already have consented plans, the build phase typically takes around 6-8 months.

Q. What does it mean to be a Registered Master Builder?

To become a member of the Master Builders Association you need a minimum of eight years continuous building experience. This offers peace of mind, that their chosen builder is experienced and has the relevant qualifications to produce high quality work. Along with this comes the 10 Year Master Build Guarantee, which offers coverage on defective structural or weather tightness elements after the completion of your build.

Q. Why should I choose Byrne Homes over another company?

Byrne Homes is a proudly family-owned full-service Construction project management company. Our clients’ wants, needs and desires are at the core of our service. We utilise the latest construction methods, systems and design to deliver cost effective, contemporary, high-quality architectural homes. Our passionate team of design and construction professionals with over 70 years combined experience, take pride in what they do and we are always striving to exceed our clients’ expectations.

Q. How does the per M2 rate work?

The cost per m2 rate is a way of estimating the potential build cost for a customer. Created for the customers benefit, not the builders, it’s a particularly crude (unreliable) way to determine value. The only way to determine the true estimated cost of your build is to itemise every aspect, from completed drawings to building consent application costs, desired dishwasher to chosen cladding, then a Quantity Surveyor will measure the plans. This is the science behind a build cost and will allow the builder to show you every cost involved and also creates a tool where you can now make changes and potentially savings.

Q. Are there Hidden Costs in building?

There should be no hidden costs when it comes to pricing a build for a client. Irrespective of whether there are Council fees, septic tanks or excavation costs, a building company should be able to outline all these aspects even with indicative numbers. Some building companies like to quote a build cost exclusively, then sting you with so-called ‘variations’. This makes the build cost appear cheaper, with the additional costs being revealed later, making for a stressful journey. At Byrne Homes we pride ourselves on transparency and solid customer relations, so we clearly outline all costs related to your build and when they are due.

Q. How does a Building Management company differ from a builder?

A Building Management Company will look after all your build needs, from design through to final CCC sign off, including ongoing maintenance. Often operating with a smaller team, they employ builders on a contract basis. They will shuffle these professional providers across many builds. Alternatively, working with a builder exclusively can put a lot of pressure on the builder to ‘project manage’ the job, whilst procuring materials and doing their own work. In addition, independent Builders often don’t have the same access to competitive pricing, like larger building companies have.

Q. What is a reasonable margin?

A builders margin is the percentage added to the cost price of a building project and can vary from builder to builder. This depends on the size of the business or type of building service they offer. This margin covers all of the business running costs including the profit for the builder. There’s a common misconception that builders run projects on huge margins and that most building companies make excessive profits. The margin should be freely disclosed along with all build costs. Typically, residential construction projects have building margins that can vary from between 10% to 25%.

Q. Can you give us a fixed price contract? And what type of contract is it?

A Master Builder Contract gives you legal protection, clearly outlines what you are paying for, including materials used and the quality standard you should expect. When talking about a fixed price, at Byrne Homes we can fix all prices, with the exception of the earthworks. If your lender doesn’t require fixed costs, then some items will have provisional sums, meaning there is an amount allocated - for example the kitchen, and it will be finalised once you have selected all the design and finishing elements you wish for.

Q. Who do we talk to through the build that can answer all our questions?

Building companies operate in different ways when it comes to concerns and queries. At Byrne Homes each site has a dedicated Project Manager responsible for the project. We invite our clients to scheduled site meetings to discuss progress and iron out any issues. With weekly update emails outlining progress to date and what’s ahead. We are a hands-on Building Management company available at any stage.

Q. Can we use our mate as one of the sub trades?

Many people have a mate who can do wiring or a friend who could charge less for painting. When you use your mate, chances are it's a favour. This can get tricky as we can’t verify their experience or guarantee their work. When we begin a job all building stages get programmed in, so inserting an outside contractor can make meeting deadlines challenging and can also impact on the quality standard we work to. Our relationships with contractors are tried and true. Not only do we demand a high standard, our contractors offer great pricing that will benefit you in the long run. They turn up when we need them to, and they guarantee their work.

Looking to work with an award-winning building management company with years of experience? Get in touch with Byrne Homes today