I recently received a phone call from a solicitor friend,  to help a client, who had just completed his multi – million dollar home on a “cost plus agreement” to sort out the final account with his builder. He was happy with the builders work, just not sure what was fair to pay him!!!
The whole agreement was based on a handshake and he wasn’t sure what costs the 15% ( the plus) was meant to apply.
I nearly fell off my chair!!!! and then phoned the client, and slowly we have …

If it suits your family situation, it is a very good idea to build your home because you will get exactly what you want instead of when you buy and existing home you will often need to compromise until you carry out a home renovation. However always remember  – don’t be lulled into thinking that the home building cost is only what a contractor quotes you.  there will often be hidden extras. so always ask lots of questions before signing on the dotted line.
So here are a few …

One of the ongoing issues for anyone contemplating a renovation or building project is to minimise their overall home building cost.
For me, the key time to have the potential to save money is before you start. Once you have employed and signed a contract with a home building contractor, the chances to save money on your home building cost is reduced significantly. Pre-planning and defining your home building or renovation project is a key factor in minimising your home building cost.
Remember also the cost is not just the money …

In my previous blogs I have talked about home remodeling ideas to plan your home improvement, home addition or extension or renovation in particularly if your budget is limited you can do a lot of the work yourself by training yourself in carpentry and painting skills and so save on labour costs.
The other major home building cost is the purchasing of renovation materials.
Some of the ways to buy materials for your home addition are:
1. Buy second hand materials – you can significantly save on your home building costs and home …