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When you’re looking for a new home, a House + Land package brings the home and section together in one offer. It gives you a place to start: a location to explore, a floor plan to picture yourself in and a price to work into your plans.
But what comes with that price?
The details matter, from the kitchen appliances to the driveway and landscaping. Inclusions can vary between packages, so it’s worth taking a little time to understand the home you’re considering. Here’s what to look for and what to ask.
Start with the home and section
First, get familiar with the basics. Which section is included? How is the home positioned? Does the layout give you the space, storage and outdoor connections you need?
Ask to see the floor plan and written specification together. The plan helps you imagine how you’ll live in the home. The specification explains the materials, fittings and finishes that will bring it to life.
You’ll also want to understand how the purchase is structured. A package may involve a sale and purchase agreement, a building contract or more than one agreement. Your solicitor can talk you through what each means, when payments are due and when ownership changes.
Look beyond the floor plan
Some details are easy to spot. Others are worth asking about before you make your decision.
Use this checklist to guide the conversation with your Classic Builders team.
|
Part of the package |
What to check |
|
Site works |
Earthworks, foundations, retaining, drainage and any allowances |
|
Services |
Power, water, wastewater, stormwater and connection charges |
|
Kitchen |
Cabinetry, benchtops, appliances and the models included |
|
Bathrooms |
Fixtures, shower finishes, waterproofing and storage |
|
Comfort |
Insulation, glazing, heating and ventilation |
|
Interior finishes |
Flooring, paint, doors, lighting and electrical outlets |
|
Outdoor spaces |
Driveway, paths, patios, fencing and the extent of landscaping |
|
Approvals |
Who takes care of fees, inspections and completion documents |
If something is described broadly, ask for a little more detail. For example, “landscaping included” might refer to a particular planting plan or an allowance. Knowing the scope helps you picture what will be ready when you move in.
What should you budget for separately?
Think about the things that will make the home feel like yours from day one.
Curtains and blinds, furniture, extra garden planting, appliance upgrades or additional electrical features may need a separate budget. Some packages may include these; others may offer them as extras.
A simple way to keep track is to mark each item as included, not included or optional. Then work out the cost of anything you’d like to add.
Our new-build budget checklist can help you think through costs that are easy to overlook.
A fixed price relates to the home, specification and work agreed in your contract. It doesn’t automatically cover every upgrade or change you might choose along the way.
Ask your Classic Builders team to explain any allowances, exclusions and how changes are priced. Your solicitor should also review the terms, including any circumstances that could change the final amount.
Getting clear on those details early helps you plan your budget with a better understanding of the whole picture.
You may have choices available, depending on the package and how far the build has progressed.
Perhaps you’re thinking about a different finish or a feature that would better suit your everyday life. Ask what’s possible, when decisions need to be made and what any changes would cost.
Our House + Land personalisation guide is a useful place to start
How do you compare different packages?
Bring each package back to the same questions: what’s included, what would you need to add and how well does the home suit you?
Compare the location, layout, specification and payment timing alongside the advertised price. Check whether GST is included, and allow for any excluded items you’ll need. Two similar prices may cover quite different things.
Most of all, ask questions. Understanding the details is part of finding a home that feels right for you.
Explore Classic Builders homes for sale or talk with your local Classic Builders team. We can walk through a specific package with you and help you understand what comes with it.