The family home will generally be the greatest investment you make in your lifetime. Not only is it a big financial commitment, it will also be an emotional commitment. As you plan your new home one of the first decisions you will make is to go with a smaller custom-home builder, or one of the big volume builders.
The main difference between the two is custom-home builders are generally small construction businesses who specialise in unique builds, with each home they build being a little different to the last. A custom-home builder can design and prepare plans based on your specific requirements and site, or build from plans provided by the client. They also have a higher standard of construction principles, giving a premium quality and finish. One of the benefits in choosing this type of builder is the flexibility and choice you have as you work collaboratively with your builder to design and select the fixtures and finishes you want.
Generally, when you work with a custom-home builder you work with the builder directly. He will assist you through all stages of the building project.
Volume builders operate by providing a range of standard designs they have in their library. They are generally not site specific, so don’t allow for layout flexibility. Usually, your choice of fixtures and fittings is limited.