FAQs

Choosing the best block of land to build on is a crucial step in the home-building process. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Location: Consider the proximity to amenities like schools, shops, and public transport. Think about the neighbourhood’s safety and future development plans.
2. Orientation: The block’s orientation can affect natural light and energy efficiency. North-facing blocks are often preferred for maximising sunlight.
3. Slope and Soil Quality: A flat block is generally easier and cheaper to build on, but a sloped block can offer unique design opportunities. Check the soil quality to ensure it’s suitable for construction.
4. Size and Shape: Make sure the block’s size and shape fit your building plans. Irregularly shaped blocks can limit your design options.
5. Zoning and Regulations: Verify the zoning laws and building regulations in the area. Some blocks may have restrictions that could impact your plans.
6. Utilities and Services: Ensure the block has access to essential services like water, electricity, gas, and sewage.
7. Views and Surroundings: Consider the views and the surrounding environment. A block with a great view can add significant value to your property.

Great question! It’s easier than you think, but requires lots of research and planning to do it right!

1. PICK A BUILDER YOU TRUST! We cant emphasise this enough. Cheapest is not always best. Selecting the right builder is vital to the jobs success and your peace of mind. You can often get bitten later on with hidden costs and
2. Think about what area you want to build and start looking for a block. Your block selection is the most important part of this process, picking the wrong one can land you in some hot water. Call and talk to a builder to get their perspective on your prospective block.
3. Get a design drawn up. You can speak to us at Kyros Homes as we have an in house design team that can help you with this. Matching your home to your block is essential. Orientation, layout and energy efficiency are important factors in any home design. Be aware of the building restrictions and rules for your block (R Codes) these will determine what you can and cant build. We can help you with this.
4. Get the design quoted from different builders. Even if you get the designs drawn up with Kyros homes you can still use those sketches to get an independent quote for the job.
5. Check your financial situation, do you have a deposit? Speak to a broker or a financial advisor, they can let you know what funding and grants are available. Shop around for the best mortgage and get professional financial advice.

Absolutely, it’s highly recommended to speak with a builder before selecting your block of land. The type of block you buy can significantly influence the type and size of the building you can construct. At Kyros Homes, we’re eager to discuss your dream home and offer guidance on choosing the right block. There are many factors to consider, so it’s always best to contact your builder first.

When setting a budget for building a house, there are several important factors to keep in mind. First, think about the cost of the land itself, as prices can vary widely based on location and size. Then, consider the construction costs, which include materials, labour, and any custom features or upgrades you might want.

Don’t forget about permits and fees, as you’ll need to account for building permits, inspection fees, and other regulatory costs. If you’re hiring an architect or designer, their fees will also add to your budget. Additionally, you’ll need to budget for utilities and infrastructure, such as connecting to water, electricity, gas, and sewage systems.

Landscaping is another important aspect, so make sure to set aside funds for gardens, driveways, and fencing. It’s also wise to have a contingency fund, typically around 10-15% of your budget, to cover any unexpected expenses or changes during construction.

If you’re taking out a loan, include the financing costs, such as interest payments and related fees. Don’t forget about insurance to protect against potential risks during the building process. Finally, consider the cost of furnishings and appliances for your new home.

The time it takes to build a house can vary widely depending on several factors. On average, it can take anywhere from 6 months to over a year. Here are some key factors that influence the timeline:

1. Size and Complexity: Larger and more complex homes naturally take longer to build.
2. Design and Approval Process: Custom designs and obtaining necessary permits can add time.
3. Weather Conditions: Adverse weather can cause delays.
4. Builder’s Schedule: The availability and workload of your builder can impact the timeline.
5. Material Availability: Delays in sourcing materials can also affect the schedule

An R code, in the context of urban planning and development, refers to a set of residential design codes that dictate the density and type of housing that can be built in a specific area. These codes are part of the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) used in Western Australia to guide the development of residential properties.

How it impacts you:

1. Housing Density: R codes determine how many dwellings can be built on a given piece of land. For example, a lower R code (like R20) allows for fewer homes per hectare compared to a higher R code (like R60).
2. Building Requirements: They set out specific requirements for setbacks, open space, and building heights, which can influence the design and layout of your home.
3. Development Potential: Understanding the R code for your property can help you assess its development potential and ensure compliance with local regulations.

Absolutely, we can help! Our in-house architectural design team is here to bring your dream home to life. By working with our team, you’ll benefit from having the builder involved throughout the design process. This collaboration ensures that any structural recommendations are made early on, potentially saving you time, money, and a lot of headaches down the line. Our goal is to create a seamless and efficient experience, making sure your home is not only beautiful but also structurally sound and cost-effective.

When planning a renovation, there are several important factors to consider to ensure a smooth and successful project:

1. Purpose of Renovation: Start by identifying why you want to renovate. Are you looking to increase comfort, update the style, or boost the property value? Knowing your goals will help guide your decisions.
2. Budget: Establish a clear budget that includes all potential costs, such as materials, labour, permits, and unexpected expenses. It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund for any surprises that may arise.
3. Design and Style: Think about the overall design and style you want to achieve. Consider hiring an interior designer or architect to help bring your vision to life and ensure the design is cohesive.
4. Permits and Regulations: Check local building codes and obtain any necessary permits before starting the renovation. This will help you avoid legal issues and ensure the work meets safety standards.
5. Structural Integrity: Before making cosmetic changes, ensure the structural elements of your home are sound. This includes checking for issues with the foundation, roof, plumbing, and electrical systems.
6. Timing: Plan your renovation around the best time of year for the work you need done. Some projects are better suited for certain seasons, and weather can impact the timeline.
7. Living Arrangements: Consider where you’ll live during the renovation. If the work is extensive, you might need to find temporary housing or make arrangements to stay with family or friends.
8. Impact on Daily Life: Think about how the renovation will affect your daily routine. Plan for disruptions and try to minimise the impact on your household.
9. Future Maintenance: Choose materials and finishes that are durable and easy to maintain. This will help you avoid frequent repairs and keep your home looking great for years to come.

Choosing the right builder is a crucial step in ensuring your home-building or renovation project goes smoothly. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:

1. Research and Recommendations: Start by asking friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations. You can also check online reviews and ratings to get a sense of a builder’s reputation.
2. Experience and Expertise: Look for builders who have experience with the type of project you have in mind. Whether it’s a custom home, a renovation, or a specific style, make sure they have a proven track record.
3. Credentials and Licenses: Verify that the builder is properly licensed and insured. This ensures they meet the necessary legal requirements and standards.
4. Portfolio and References: Ask to see a portfolio of their previous work and request references from past clients. Speaking directly with former clients can give you insight into the builder’s reliability and quality of work.
5. Communication and Compatibility: Choose a builder who communicates clearly and listens to your needs. It’s important to feel comfortable and confident in their ability to understand and execute your vision.
6. Detailed Contract: Ensure that the builder provides a detailed contract outlining the scope of work, timelines, costs, and payment schedules. This helps prevent misunderstandings and protects both parties.
7. Visit Ongoing Projects: If possible, visit some of the builder’s current projects. This can give you a firsthand look at their work quality and how they manage their job sites.
8. Warranty and Aftercare: Check if the builder offers a warranty on their work and what kind of aftercare service they provide. A good builder stands by their work and is willing to address any issues that arise after the project is completed.

The cost of building a house can vary widely based on several factors, including location, size, materials, and design choices.

Here are some key factors that influence the cost:

1. Location: Building costs can vary significantly depending on the region. For example, costs are generally higher in urban areas compared to rural ones.
2. Size and Design: Larger homes and custom designs typically cost more. A custom-designed home will usually be more expensive than a standard design.
3. Materials and Finishes: The quality and type of materials you choose for both the exterior and interior finishes can greatly impact the overall cost.
4. Labour Costs: Labour accounts for about 40% to 50% of the total cost, while materials make up the difference.
5. Permits and Fees: Don’t forget to include the cost of permits, inspections, and other regulatory fees.
6. Site Preparation: Costs for preparing the land, such as clearing, grading, and installing utilities, can add to the total expense.