Looking to build my first home. After advice, references, info.

[Nickevox]

Need some help fellas.

We got quotes a few months back to demolish a house.. ringing them all up again they are all booked until 2015.
Because a new rule comes in next year, the demolishing total goes up ~$6000 (some bullshit tax).

If anyone knows a company please advise, house is in Morley.

[skidkid]

Need some help fellas.

We got quotes a few months back to demolish a house.. ringing them all up again they are all booked until 2015.
Because a new rule comes in next year, the demolishing total goes up ~$6000 (some bullshit tax)..

The landfill levy is going to double next year, hence everybody is trying to get demo's done before that comes in.

Goodluck finding somebody

[Uber XR]

Need some help fellas.

We got quotes a few months back to demolish a house.. ringing them all up again they are all booked until 2015.
Because a new rule comes in next year, the demolishing total goes up ~$6000 (some bullshit tax).

If anyone knows a company please advise, house is in Morley.

PM Yackybear

[Nugs]

On that topic, my old house was finally demolished last week!
They actually pulled it apart bit by bit (to resell I'm assuming) which made me feel a little bit better about demolishing an old house I'd had some good times in.
Now the process begins for the new one to go up.
Our contract says it will be finished by November next year (contract includes liquidated damages) but I think that is slightly optimistic at this point.

[Nickevox]

Found someone, good ol Serbs always willing to bust out a job

[Joe]

So fkn close.. 6 days til PCI then I have to do my concrete, retaining and fences.

http://i477.photobucket.com/albums/rr131/balistc/1939671_10153275609078776_5344230575652260943_n.jp g

[munt]

Anyone got an idea on what colorbond gates should cost?.

The fencing in my development was included with the land but if I want to change anything like adding a gate in, I have to wear the full cost for that section. Im after a small side entrance and a double panel sized one to fit a car through. I was quoted $2000 for the 2 gates by the contractor that does the fences in my development, Im no gate expert but this price seems a bit on the high side.

Im assuming they have to use heftier posts in the gate section therefore it would be easier/cheaper to have done while the fence is being built.

[Sensible]

Stratco sell gate kits

[Trolley]

Anyone got an idea on what colorbond gates should cost?.

The fencing in my development was included with the land but if I want to change anything like adding a gate in, I have to wear the full cost for that section. Im after a small side entrance and a double panel sized one to fit a car through. I was quoted $2000 for the 2 gates by the contractor that does the fences in my development, Im no gate expert but this price seems a bit on the high side.

Im assuming they have to use heftier posts in the gate section therefore it would be easier/cheaper to have done while the fence is being built.

I was in the same situation as you at the beginning of the year. Sounds about right as I had to fork out $850 for a 1.2m gate at the back, and $750 for two panels (about 1.5m & 2m wide).

[SimonR32]

My side gate was $600 from memory for a standard average size. Slap in the face compared to fencing costs

[2LMILK]

Went to my block today, steel frames for the internal doors, wood frame for 1200mm front door, shed, windows are all now on site.

10 days till we get a brick layer team (8 week total wait)

cant fucking wait

House should be up once we get back from bali

[heavyduty1340]

Our house is steaming along nicely - Only a week or two from lock up now

[180SXTCY]

Anyone got a contact for a painter?

[Lasoya]

Anyone got a contact for a painter?
JasonSS and Gladio on these forums are painters :)

[2LMILK]

Anyone got a contact for a painter?
I have one. He is painting my house when it's done. Let me know if you want his details

[RELEASE]

i had the fencing contractor add a fixed section as was too narrow (900mm - i personally didn't want a hinged gate) for a gate and only charged me $140 as long as i paid them before they did the fence hence they were out already and didn't have to come out again.
I had a mate install a colourbond gate to stop the dog going doing the side of the house (air con, hot water system, clothes line etc). 1.8m high by 1.3m with a latch for $420ish. Others wanted near on $900

[cactus]

R and R Fencing in Kelmscott = the bomb. Nice and cheap, great quality.

[hostage_85]

+1 for R & R Fencing, used them for my place. Good Job and not overly priced.

[180SXTCY]

yeah mate send them through



I have one. He is painting my house when it's done. Let me know if you want his details

[benjamino]

After 16 weeks all up waiting for a brickie, the whole house was knocked up in 5 days last week.

Hoping the rest of the process is as speedy!

[SimonR32]

After 16 weeks all up waiting for a brickie, the whole house was knocked up in 5 days last week.

Hoping the rest of the process is as speedy!

Hate to break your heart but it won't be, seems the building game goes along the lines of lots of progress... week of waiting, lots of progress... week of waiting (rinse and repeat)

[d1mitch]

Hate to break your heart but it won't be, seems the building game goes along the lines of lots of progress... week of waiting, lots of progress... week of waiting (rinse and repeat)

exactly; I have been in the final stage prior to final inspection for about 12 weeks now, and they literally had maybe 2 weeks worth of work as I am doing all my flooring, electrical, window treatments, painting, crossover all after handover.
so I go by day after day with no progress made, its so frustrating especially when the supervisor says that it will be another 2 weeks till inspection... wtf? just get it finished, maybe have a trade there for longer than 5 minutes to finish the job

[Master D]

So far I've been in construction since the start of May.
My bricks are up and I'm up to week 15 of waiting for roof carpenters.
19 weeks until the contract is up.

I sneaking suspicion that it may go over :-/
What happens if the contract finishes and the house isn't complete??

[180SXTCY]

fuck all.

they will play the 'acts of god' card to justify delays.

[Wilko]

Chasing some feedback on aircon. We bough a new place about 6 months ago and now looking to get some fitted.
We had evaporative and in our last place, and once the pads were changed and it was serviced we were pretty happy with it. Granted there were some days where it was useless.
We've had quotes for both evap and refrigerated in the new place, and its double the cost to go refrigerated and the running costs will be alot more for us with it being run most of the day.
One of the neighbors I've spoken to has evap and said he wouldnt get it again. We've both got wooden flooring's and he said his get damp with it on. With tiles in our last place I didnt notice this, and it doesnt seem normal?
Is it a waste getting evap these days?

[DRKWRX]

Ive noticed in our house with evap we have had damp on the tiles before..... Refridge kills evap but the running costs are high.

[MadDocker]

We've got wood floors and they get slightly damp with the evap going. Would love refridge but not baller enough to run it all summer. Evap pretty much stays on all day and night for most of summer and we only see an increase of about 10% or so on our electricity and water bills.

I've seen next door get a $700 power bill from the refridge running flat out. I laughed from his couch while chilled out in his nice cool place with a beer hahaha.

[DRKWRX]

look at the actron air refridge models, they are able to actually ramp down and use a lot less power if you only use it in some rooms, the others when you put it on one room still run at something like 75% so they dont freeze so you save fuck all power, think we got quoted 15-16k for the actron for the new house.

[Missile]

How big is the house? Single storey traditional build?
For the price of ducted reverse cycle these days you'd be stupid not to do that. Basic units have multi-zone functions so running costs aren't as high (but still much higher than evaporation)
The only people that think evap is decent are those without reverse cycle.
With regards to timber floors + evap. Evaporation cooling will increase the humidity in the air. Generally should not be an issue so long as you keep the house very open (like a sliding door). As soon as you start to restrict the air flow you will get moisture build up on the surfaces and floors.

[180SXTCY]

As already set, most if not all the new reverse cycle aircons have multiple zones and are also able to ramp down to the units lowest Kw/h rating once the desired temperature is achieved.

Usually there is a constant zone (normally the main living area) that is always on, and then you can choose from the zone controller what other areas are being cooled.

Edit: I've lived in a house without aircon for the last 27 years, I cannot wait to be able to sleep comfortably during Perths stupid hot summers!

[Pete]

We've got LG Reverse cycle ducted aircon, basically have the main + kitchen as the normal, then have 8 zones throughout the house ( every room has it's own zone.) If you want the master bedroom on just need to have the main one and that on, or you can have bedroom 2 and master on without anything else, just need 2 basic zones running, and it drops output dramatically.

[Wilko]

How big is the house? Single storey traditional build?
For the price of ducted reverse cycle these days you'd be stupid not to do that. Basic units have multi-zone functions so running costs aren't as high (but still much higher than evaporation)
The only people that think evap is decent are those without reverse cycle.
With regards to timber floors + evap. Evaporation cooling will increase the humidity in the air. Generally should not be an issue so long as you keep the house very open (like a sliding door). As soon as you start to restrict the air flow you will get moisture build up on the surfaces and floors.

Decent sized house, brick and tin. Floor plan is very open, which I think would mean the separate zone thing would be useless for us.
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff260/wilko_n13/Floorplan_zpsfe49cf06.jpg (http://s236.photobucket.com/user/wilko_n13/media/Floorplan_zpsfe49cf06.jpg.html)


look at the actron air refridge models, they are able to actually ramp down and use a lot less power if you only use it in some rooms, the others when you put it on one room still run at something like 75% so they dont freeze so you save fuck all power, think we got quoted 15-16k for the actron for the new house.

Thanks, will check them out. At time time we got two quotes they were around 5.5K for evap and 10.5K for refrigerated. If I remember properly they quoted on Breezeair and Braemar for the evap, and I cant remember for the refrigerated. At the time we didnt have the cash so just wanted to get an idea of price and work towards it.


We've got LG Reverse cycle ducted aircon, basically have the main + kitchen as the normal, then have 8 zones throughout the house ( every room has it's own zone.) If you want the master bedroom on just need to have the main one and that on, or you can have bedroom 2 and master on without anything else, just need 2 basic zones running, and it drops output dramatically.
Thanks will check them out too.

[huggy_b]

Same as Pete, I've got a Daikin set up with 10 zones, main living area as the master zone. I can even scroll down my motors in each zone to run a lower speed to save on power use as well. I think mine was $10,800 from memory.

[MMM]

I wouldn't even think about getting an evaporative. They are simply useless.

At least with the reverse cycle you can use them on heating in winter.
Your refrigerated unit in winter will cost you less to run than a standard gas heater as well. Although in summer it will cost you more to run than an evap you will find you will save on gas in winter. That's assuming your using gas to heat your place now.

With the new inverters your typical 12kw system will run anywhere between 4kw-13kw. So on low demand it won't use much more power than your evap cooler. Obviously with high ambient temps it's going to cost more.

As far as units go I would only put in a Panasonic or Daikin.

[heavyduty1340]

Any recommendations for a 20+kw system

Only sticking point is they have to be less than 800mm wide!! (left no fucking room on my block Grrrr

[Joe]

Good luck with that one! Most air cons need at least a metre of air clearance (between the wall of the house and the fence) to ensure they don't suck hot exhaust air back in.

Best bet is to roof mount

[heavyduty1340]

Yeah Joe - or remote position it - I only have a 1200mm gap on one side only as the other side is driveway to the shed

Fucking house just kept getting bigger and bigger - should have gone double storey but I have a fucked back and hate stairs

[Nugs]

After such a long time in the planning and approvals stage it's very exciting to see things finally happening with our place.
I have footings for the garage :)
Also my block doesn't run all the way to the next street, the block behind me is about to build as well.
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff200/BigNVeiny/37%20Hartwell%20Street/C876CC45-61E2-47C4-A256-7EC35BE8370D_zpsrjwbdano.jpg (http://s240.photobucket.com/user/BigNVeiny/media/37%20Hartwell%20Street/C876CC45-61E2-47C4-A256-7EC35BE8370D_zpsrjwbdano.jpg.html)

[d1mitch]

are you building an undercroft garage? otherwise why are you stepped down so low to the house next door?

anyway some progress on mine. the front elevation is nearly finished.
http://i.imgur.com/aPXInHn.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/7bp2I9h.jpg

I sent an unhappy email to the builder yesterday because they keep pushing back completion times yet very little work gets done on the house, its like they are delaying it just for the sake of it. the estimated completion is now closer to 34 weeks after slab down as opposed to the estimated 26... and it wasn't due to brickie delay either bricks went up very fast, they have just pissed about in this last stage prior to final inspection. which would be somewhat understandable if they were completing the house but I am doing the flooring, painting, electrical, window treatments, landscaping all after handover, they are just doing the bare essentials...

[huggy_b]

Fuck maintaining that wood facade. Enjoy that!

[Nugs]

are you building an undercroft garage? otherwise why are you stepped down so low to the house next door?

Yep, this is the front elevation.
Managed to get space for three cars, a store room and a cellar down there.
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff200/BigNVeiny/37%20Hartwell%20Street/null_zpsfb60f58b.jpg (http://s240.photobucket.com/user/BigNVeiny/media/37%20Hartwell%20Street/null_zpsfb60f58b.jpg.html)

[SimonR32]

That looks awsome Luke, what suburb?

[huggy_b]

Yep, this is the front elevation.
Managed to get space for three cars, a store room and a cellar down there.
http://i240.photobucket.com/albums/ff200/BigNVeiny/37%20Hartwell%20Street/null_zpsfb60f58b.jpg (http://s240.photobucket.com/user/BigNVeiny/media/37%20Hartwell%20Street/null_zpsfb60f58b.jpg.html)

Oh and out the back behind our lagoon pool we've put the servants quarters......
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v709/wombat01/feel-like-a-sir-template_zps4695c96f.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/wombat01/media/feel-like-a-sir-template_zps4695c96f.jpg.html)

[180SXTCY]

fuck thats baller!

[Nugs]

That looks awsome Luke, what suburb?
Coolbinia.

[millzy_88]

You overlooking anything with all dat glayass?

[Nugs]

Maybe a park from the second storey, so not really but the whole suburb is fairly green.
Behind that is single storey open plan living, dining, kitchen running down the high side of the block with timber framed sliding glass doors the whole length.
Was not easy getting 6 stars haha.

[SimonR32]

Coolbinia.

Fruity Lexia!

[Cal]

Anyone have a contact for soakwell installations? In the middle of ripping up a lot of concrete for lawn and upgrading the drainage at the same time.

[d1mitch]

just do it yourself....

[shifted]

Anyone have a contact for soakwell installations? In the middle of ripping up a lot of concrete for lawn and upgrading the drainage at the same time.

DIY - killer workout.

[DRKWRX]

Have bricks! told our Brickie will start in 2-3 weeks, happy I went with Blueprint and not one of these builders that make you wait months, should hopefully have most the walls up by Christmas.

[MadDocker]

Hopefully the green VP doesn't wrap a few doughys and wreck the bricks haha.

[shifted]

Have bricks! told our Brickie will start in 2-3 weeks, happy I went with Blueprint and not one of these builders that make you wait months, should hopefully have most the walls up by Christmas.

IIRC - Blueprint is still part of HomeGroup WA isn't it?

[DRKWRX]

bricks were there 3 days and someone stole fourteen of them, you might be right about being part of homegroup but Blueprint seem to have their shit sorted out, said mines been waiting the longest and the brickie is behind on one house and he will send him to mine.

[matty12]

arrrgghhh, got a look in our house while cleaners were there and noticed a major oversight on my behalf, master bedroom door opens over walk in robe so the door should of been reversed. Just didn't see it.

[Missile]

arrrgghhh, got a look in our house while cleaners were there and noticed a major oversight on my behalf, master bedroom door opens over walk in robe so the door should of been reversed. Just didn't see it.

Without knowing any of your back story, is it swung that way on the plans?

[Ben Wha]

Sup dudes,
It has probably been covered in here, but can't see it.

I'm toying with the idea of buying a block of land inner city and building a new place on it, but I'm not entirely sure what the best way to approach it is. We currently own a house, so this will be our second that we will live in and rent the other out.

From my quick research, some lenders do land loans (not sure what the difference is) and a few people say to split the loan (1 for the land and 1 for the construction). I understand that you can just pay the interest on a loan until the construction is complete?

Has anyone done this and can share their experience? Also what other costs should I look out for? Do you pay stamp duty and what type of deposit do you need, etc?

[Joe]

Stamp duty = yes. No matter what, you'll be up for that.

[MadDocker]

Call your bank or a broker. You'll be up for stamp duty for sure. More deposit the better but you might be able to set it up using the equity in your existing house etc. You can usually pay interest only on the loan.

[180SXTCY]

PM Easytiger on here, he works and owns crystal finance. absolute pleasure to deal with and very helpful.

[RELEASE]

You basically get a loan for the land, normal repayments etc.
Once you decide on builder, you basically apply for the extra amount and if approved basically increases the amount owing to be land + construction costs + fees.
Account number etc don't change, its not a new loan just an increase. unless you change banks obviously.

During construction phase, the loan (land plus whatever installments you pay as you go along) is set to interest only. Once the handover of keys is done and bank pays final amount to builder, it kicks in as normal loan.

You pay stamp duty

how much deposit you need depends on your financial situation. if you have enough capital available in your current property you can use that as your "deposit". if not bank will tell you the shortfall.

[matty12]

Without knowing any of your back story, is it swung that way on the plans?

yeah like that on the plans but just overlooked it, builder says the may have another frame that we could swap out but the door will open outwards into lounge but less of a problem than this.

[Nickevox]

Builder came by this arvo, wheels are now in motion to build some units.

Now the waiting game begins.

[DRKWRX]

Who are you building them through? Ventura iD?

[Pete]

arrrgghhh, got a look in our house while cleaners were there and noticed a major oversight on my behalf, master bedroom door opens over walk in robe so the door should of been reversed. Just didn't see it.

Ours does too, but we've got 2 doors to our walk in room robe, 1 from in the bedroom and 1 from in the bathroom, and we generally use the one from the bathroom so doesn't completely bother me, but it does make it hard to put a door stop down, which I'm yet to do.

[Nickevox]

Who are you building them through? Ventura iD?

Exclusive Homes WA

[Sensible]

yeah like that on the plans but just overlooked it, builder says the may have another frame that we could swap out but the door will open outwards into lounge but less of a problem than this.

If you contact the frame manufacturer most of them have a maintanace division
The will be able to send someone out to change the hinges and the lock around on the frame and weld up the parts they cut out
This was done at my house after the bricklayer put the toilet door in wrong

[matty12]

Ours use different door frames as the are assembled in a kit form onto the wall being a steel frame house and are screwed to the frame. It s not a biggy as they can be pulled down and swapped over. Not a bad solution as changing the frame for the "correct" one would then mean it then covers the light switch, that would mean I have to move it to the other side so all plaster board would have to come off as there is no conduit run through the steel frame so holes have to be drilled to get cable down and then re plaster boarded.

[Miggy]

Anyone know much about soakwells? I'm not doing them my self as I'm rarely in Perth.......and I'm lazy. I got a quote for 2 large Polypropylene soakwells for $2365 or a guy who can put in 13 small 135L Polypropylene soakwells for each down pipe for under $2000. Can any recommend the best way to go?

[RELEASE]

Go concrete ones

[rgvlee]

From the reading I have done in the past the poly ones are ok.

In practicality it depends more on the soil/sand you have. We went with concrete because it was impossible to dig a trench that wouldn't collapse on itself due to soft sand.

When it comes to placement I prefer a bank or two of soakwells rather than one for each downpipe.

[d1mitch]

I did my own recently, I have a large 1500x900 concrete one out the front of my house and then I have 12 poly 750x450x400 rectangle ones across the back of my house with half the down pipes running to the back and the other half running to the front.

so having both I can give feedback on each,
the reason I chose to run a combination was due to space limitations and ease of piping. concrete ones are great if you have the space but definitely are better to have them put in prior to any work getting done on site as the logistics to put them in is much more involved, the poly ones being smaller you can get away with doing them after much easier.

in terms of the actual products concrete are tried and true but poly seem to be gaining more popularity. the concrete ones only drain out through the bottom and the vents placed around the side whereas the poly ones are essentially like hardcore cray pots so they can drain out to the surrounding ground from all sides, bottom and top if needed so if you look at total surface area of available draining space the poly ones are much more efficient at the same total volume.

have a look at the amount of space you have and the best way you can work it, keep in mind the distance you have to run pipes because more pipe costs more money and more time digging the holes to lay it in.

if they say it will do the job go for the cheaper option. i ended up doing my whole job for about just over $1000 and plenty of blood sweat and tears

[racegtst]

So many new houses being finished at the moment....

I am offering a free basic letterbox, pole and concrete base as per picture.

Hopefully this helps someone out with the postie until you get your landscaping done.

Message me here if interested.

http://i1193.photobucket.com/albums/aa349/racegtst/20141130_152645_zpsql1mgai0.jpg

[2LMILK]

we are about 70% complete as of yesterday on brick work.
update thursday when i go bak
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u3/keepitreal07/10_zpse85c37ec.jpg (http://s164.photobucket.com/user/keepitreal07/media/10_zpse85c37ec.jpg.html)
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u3/keepitreal07/11_zps638930ff.jpg (http://s164.photobucket.com/user/keepitreal07/media/11_zps638930ff.jpg.html)
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u3/keepitreal07/7_zpsfb478dc3.jpg (http://s164.photobucket.com/user/keepitreal07/media/7_zpsfb478dc3.jpg.html)
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u3/keepitreal07/9_zpsab14ba7b.jpg (http://s164.photobucket.com/user/keepitreal07/media/9_zpsab14ba7b.jpg.html)
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u3/keepitreal07/3_zpsebaba5e2.jpg (http://s164.photobucket.com/user/keepitreal07/media/3_zpsebaba5e2.jpg.html)
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u3/keepitreal07/4_zps6f550755.jpg (http://s164.photobucket.com/user/keepitreal07/media/4_zps6f550755.jpg.html)
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u3/keepitreal07/5_zpsebaba5e2.jpg (http://s164.photobucket.com/user/keepitreal07/media/5_zpsebaba5e2.jpg.html)

[ovaxitd]

On a side note with all these houses being built. If anyone has any Verticore double row bricks or single generals left over and wants them gone i will collect what you have for free :) If you have bulk then ill pay depending on location and amount.

:)

pm me or 0422 210 591

[heavyduty1340]

Hit lock up on ours yesterday so access will be tricky now

Will put a a few pics later

[d1mitch]

I am trying to get handover by next week. the builder is only 7-8 weeks behind schedule but hey have suddenly realized that they wont get paid until its done, suddenly work is happening. lol

[thommo]

Hit lock up on ours yesterday so access will be tricky now

Will put a a few pics later

Brick strap or metal brick tie wil get you in through garage unless they've put in a dead bolt.

[matty12]

hand over on Monday just gone, have had back door keys for 2 weeks thanks to site super. Been painting every second day till 10pm and then making the hour drive home after work, good times

[heavyduty1340]

We are getting our new house painted by a contractor - what is everyones take on the best paint to use - contractor recommended solver, but I was under the impression that it is budget paint??

[180SXTCY]

hand over on Monday just gone, have had back door keys for 2 weeks thanks to site super. Been painting every second day till 10pm and then making the hour drive home after work, good times

I'm hearing you. Got my keys last Friday and have been prepping and painting every moment I have spare.

[MadDocker]

I've used Permalux, Dulux, British Paints & currently using Taubmans. This Taubmans is going on better than any paint I've used and looks like it has some rubbery type shit in it. Seems hard wearing etc.

I'm no expert in paints. Just personal experience painting my own places.

[matty12]

using taubmans now but have used solver as well so far apart in times frames I couldn't tell you the difference. I did how ever buy some cheap paint from hardware store to do one room before the sale of our previous house and it was shit, two coates plus primer and you can still see through it.

[Joe]

It's not the paint you use.. its the prep and the base plaster finish.

I've seen paintjobs using expensive paint that have peeled and fucked up in no time at all, because the prep was terrible.

[[PIG GTS]]

Solver colours don't cover well especially their light colours.

Good prep is wiping all walls down with damp cloth as throughout construction the walls get covered in dust.

Always use oil based sealer and sand walls down every coat.

[180SXTCY]

It's not the paint you use.. its the prep and the base plaster finish.

I've seen paintjobs using expensive paint that have peeled and fucked up in no time at all, because the prep was terrible.

this.

I've gone through and cleaned all my walls that I'm going to be painting with sugar soap to get any shit that might be left over from the build process. Then I'll be doing 1 maybe 2 coats of sealer followed by another 1-2 coats of paint.

[2LMILK]

Mate who is painting my place said u need to test the plaster as if the pH level is to high it will peel right away.

[dmanvan]

^^ actually more to do with moisture levels than anything else... plastered walls can take weeks to months to completely dry. If you paint over before the moisture levels are low enough then the paint forms a skin and prevents evaporation or drying of the wall but also won't bond properly as moisture is trying to get out.

can cause lots of uglies, including mould/ or causing build up of lime/salts efflorescence.

a lot of firsthome builder / builds are rushed and even the time between float and set is too short. Not allowing the float to breath enough before they set over the top. And then some painter comes in and paints it before it is even ready

Sure a good painter can overcome some of these issues with some of the products out their today but most will only offer warranty etc based on what has been done prior to them. And if things have been rushed it don' matter what you do, you could get problems down the track.

[Sensible]

^^ actually more to do with moisture levels than anything else... plastered walls can take weeks to months to completely dry.

In the summer months you should be able to paint a week or so after the plasterer has finished as long as the house has good air flow and some windows have been left open

Winter time is a different story and have gone back to houses weeks after finishing and a film of water is still on the surface of the white set

[Pete]

Hit lock up on ours yesterday so access will be tricky now

Will put a a few pics later

become good friends with someone in the office and borrow their construction key when you want to have a look on the weekends. That's how we did it.

[heavyduty1340]

Haa - have found a cabinet maker that has master key

Walls are dry wall (gyprock) so moisture isnt a problem

I will clean all dust from walls prior to painting

Will have to look at other pain than solver as whole house will be off white so I dont want shadows showing through.

Got landscaper booked for Feb, and timber floors to be installed once landscaping is complete so should be in by March

Gotta say, Home Group WA have been bloody good down here - trade after trade following on right behind each other and quality is great so far, and I am fucking fussy

[millzy_88]

I'm considering painting myself but I'm also getting quotes for labour as well because I really don't want to do it and it's going to delay flooring going down weeks given the amount of time it will take me. What should I be looking at in the quote to ensure good quality result as none of the ones I currently have mention of this sealer coat? They all just say base coat and 2 coats of paint?

There will be months between white set and paint so that wont be an issue at least.

[magic1]

I'm doing the final building inspection for Mr & Mrs Passlow shortly.

mulies and ladder. check and check.

[matty12]

Ducted reverse cycle in today sweet. Our tiling has gone from 5k to 11k because I mistakingly bought porcelain huge fuck........

[180SXTCY]

Think they say the moisture content for plaster has to be less than 16 % if i recall correctly?

[180SXTCY]

I'm considering painting myself but I'm also getting quotes for labour as well because I really don't want to do it and it's going to delay flooring going down weeks given the amount of time it will take me. What should I be looking at in the quote to ensure good quality result as none of the ones I currently have mention of this sealer coat? They all just say base coat and 2 coats of paint?

There will be months between white set and paint so that wont be an issue at least.

I think you'll find the 'base coat' is the sealer coat they might just be calling it something different? If unsure ask them.

I'm using dulux sealer binder, the shits not cheap at about 170 dollars per 10 litres...

[millzy_88]

So I got him to clarify and this is the breakdown:

-1 coat of dulux plaster sealer
-2 coats of dulux wash and wear

The price he has quoted is pretty good at around $4k for the house (total house area around 250sqm) and he comes recommended so I'm very tempted to commit and save myself the time and hassle.

[Trolley]

I hate shiny shit, so I got my house painted in matt paint (can't remember the colour name, but was Solver as per what the painter prefers to use). BIGGEST FUCKING MISTAKE EVER.
My poor choice in painter didn't even think to recommend against it because you cannot clean matt paint. Walls are full of paw marks from two c(unts)ats and if you try to clean the wall it just spreads the dirt around and/or creates shiny spots on the wall.

In about 3-4 years I will pay someone to redo it in satin and something than can be fucking washed.

[Joe]

Ducted reverse cycle in today sweet. Our tiling has gone from 5k to 11k because I mistakingly bought porcelain huge fuck........

All the very best with that one!

Have your floors been screeded? Prepare to fuck with any OCD you might have, porcelain tiles are notoriously difficult to lay and get level.

My tiler works on some of the Granwood and Zorzi Homes, and during his inspection, even he picked about 20 tiles that his crew needed to come back and replace as a result of not being up to his standards.

[dmanvan]

So I got him to clarify and this is the breakdown:

-1 coat of dulux plaster sealer
-2 coats of dulux wash and wear

The price he has quoted is pretty good at around $4k for the house (total house area around 250sqm) and he comes recommended so I'm very tempted to commit and save myself the time and hassle.

check if the painter is Dulux Accredited, We always used those guys and I still have some good contacts if you need comparo quote.

[millzy_88]

How does one find that out or do you ask them directly?

[rgvlee]

Have your floors been screeded? Prepare to fuck with any OCD you might have, porcelain tiles are notoriously difficult to lay and get level.


Very true, a lot depends on how level the surface is to begin with. The tilers can level out with glue but only to a point. Beyond that you're grinding or screeding depending on your finished floor level. You notice the imperfections more with a rectified tile which is what most porcelains are.

Additionally porcelain is very hard compared to ceramic so you get additional costs associated with cutting them. The porcelain tiles in my current place were nearly 1cm thick and the tilers went through a stack of cutting discs.

Though porcelain tiles usually look a lot better for the next place I'm going to try to go back to ceramic, much easier to work with. Even if I chip one it's a small price to pay for the ballache that comes with porcelain.

[matty12]

yeah the levels and the cutting is the whole issue it has pretty much doubled what we estimated to do it. Im hoping to get I guy I know to do it as he is very particular. It will be cheaper for us to buy more ceramics and get them laid tham the labour to lay the porcelain. Carnt return tile as we got a discount on already discounted run out tiles. We move in next Friday now with out tiling and therefore carpet for good knows how long and over budget by almost 100k almost the last straw really....

[Joe]

Yeah i was over budget by 100k also.. But that was expected, I chopped the contract to the bone when we first started, and as I earned more coin and could afford it, I kept adding shit on, upgrading shit, and getting the builder to do a lot of the work rather than me doing it after handover (so much easier and worth the marginal expense over organising my own trades).

[millzy_88]

So our house just reached lock up which I was quite happy about since I wanted it secured over the Christmas break. However, I had arranged to show some family members around it this weekend and now I obviously cant get in.

I noticed the garage door is only locked by the hand lock so thought maybe this was a potential way in. Anyone else have any experience breaking into their own home? Sounds dodgy and unnecessary I know but looking in through the windows is lame.

[Ash]

So our house just reached lock up which I was quite happy about since I wanted it secured over the Christmas break. However, I had arranged to show some family members around it this weekend and now I obviously cant get in.

I noticed the garage door is only locked by the hand lock so thought maybe this was a potential way in. Anyone else have any experience breaking into their own home? Sounds dodgy and unnecessary I know but looking in through the windows is lame.

You cant just call the builder and get a key?

[matty12]

Move in day, perfect day for it

[millzy_88]

You cant just call the builder and get a key?

They normally ok with that? First build so have no idea what is normal procedure.

[munt]

Only get the key at handover, you can call and your building supervisor and tell him you want to have a look and organise a time.

[rgvlee]

As above or
if you catch a trade on site ask to leave a window open
depending on how thorough they've been with lockup it maybe possible to open a shoppers entrance by pushing the lock back

[millzy_88]

As above or
if you catch a trade on site ask to leave a window open
depending on how thorough they've been with lockup it maybe possible to open a shoppers entrance by pushing the lock back

Can't reach the builder today (assume they are having Christmas celebrations) so may just try push the lock in but failing that will just have to try and get a key on the sly in the New Year.

[2LMILK]

Getting there very slowly
Roof timbers be finished tomorrow

Rear end
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u3/keepitreal07/10893825_10152638201600665_1842276884_n_zps0dce580 5.jpg (http://s164.photobucket.com/user/keepitreal07/media/10893825_10152638201600665_1842276884_n_zps0dce580 5.jpg.html)

Front end with gable roof over main bedroom
http://i164.photobucket.com/albums/u3/keepitreal07/10933254_10152638199640665_690896154_n_zps4e4f6b84 .jpg (http://s164.photobucket.com/user/keepitreal07/media/10933254_10152638199640665_690896154_n_zps4e4f6b84 .jpg.html)

[2LMILK]

also whos the resident draftsman etc. need a plan made up for my shed i wanna build.

also a but of advise if they can. Wanna build a shed basically attached to my house in a BAL12.5 area

please PM me

[nicecar]

Work in family business, one of the bigger commercial painters in Perth.


check if the painter is Dulux Accredited, We always used those guys and I still have some good contacts if you need comparo quote.

We're Dulux Accredited, however this does not equal good painter or good paint it's not a hard process to get accreditation. However most residential builders spec Dulux these days unless they're looking for savings, we've substituted Solver products in the past with no issues. You can't go wrong with Dulux Professional or Wash and Wear. As mentioned prep work will determine a finish that lasts not the brand of paint in most cases.


I hate shiny shit, so I got my house painted in matt paint (can't remember the colour name, but was Solver as per what the painter prefers to use). BIGGEST FUCKING MISTAKE EVER.
My poor choice in painter didn't even think to recommend against it because you cannot clean matt paint. Walls are full of paw marks from two c(unts)ats and if you try to clean the wall it just spreads the dirt around and/or creates shiny spots on the wall. Typically the painter will offer 5-7 years warranty, however good luck holding a small contractor to a warranty claim a few years down the track.


Anywhere trafficable should not be matt or flat, reserved for ceilings as it shows less imperfections, regular cleaning will give you shiny spots. He didn't mention it because it meant less patchwork and less paint to get coverage compared to a low sheen.

[Lump]

also whos the resident draftsman etc. need a plan made up for my shed i wanna build.

also a but of advise if they can.

bump to this, thinking of bulldozing my rental and want to find out what i can fit on the block.

[magic1]

also whos the resident draftsman etc. need a plan made up for my shed i wanna build.

also a but of advise if they can. Wanna build a shed basically attached to my house in a BAL12.5 area

please PM me


no, pm me or call 9317 3331

[philly]

Can anyone recommend/do timber decking for a 20square meter alfresco area?

[millzy_88]

I went through Nexgen decking as it's supposed to last longer and doesn't need treating all the time. Fairly good price considering as well.

[Nickevox]

Doing a cost + build on our units so dad and I are going to do some stuff on our own.

Does anyone have a hook up with wooden floor boards at all? Need some quotes.

[RELEASE]

Can anyone recommend/do timber decking for a 20square meter alfresco area?There was a thread asking the same a while back. (http://antilag.com/forums/showthread.php?46921-WTD-Timber-decking-Supply-and-Install)
I called the guys referenced in it and wasn't keen with none of them.
Found a guy called Jordan that did mine for a decent price. 0477414668.
had 23m2 to do and am happy with it plus was a shit load cheaper than others. One guy quoted me $10K

[Nickevox]

Can anyone recommend/do timber decking for a 20square meter alfresco area?

My mate John does some good work
https://www.facebook.com/QuinnCarpentry

[j3rk]

Release- how much cheaper, what'd you pay!

[RELEASE]

Release- how much cheaper, what'd you pay! i paid $3400 ca$h.
Supply, delivery, lay and stain solid jarah boards. Substructure was treated pine. Included 1 board fascia.
His price is $150m2 + delivery which is a flat fee. Was just before christmas and managed to knock him down to $3400

[millzy_88]

Just got an email from the builder confirming a date for Pre-Handover Inspection in 2 weeks. Has felt like a lifetime getting to this point but it seems like there is a light at the end of the tunnel after all.

Feels good man!

[Phonat]

Got a quick question for those who have built,

At what stage where you required to pay for your pre start? Builder originally told me (verbally) that it was payable prior to key handover, but are now asking for the entire balance to be payed less 3k (24k total). Nothing has gone ahead yet as titles have still yet to be issued, but they are holding us over a barrel for the money before they proceed any further.

Has anyone had a similar experience?

[2LMILK]

I was told I had to show I had funds in my account via a bank statement but didn't have to pay till final payment.

[180SXTCY]

I had to pay for any additions I done at prestart prior to the build commencing. That was with aveling.

[hostage_85]

Sort of on Topic.

Has anyone had Drama's with Estate Developers own landscapers dragging there heals when doing the front yard landscaping?
I've now been in my place 7 months, and they were crap at contacting us.
Contacted the Developers Liaison multiple times last year and they said nothing would happen with our front yard till after christmas.
Chased them up twice in Jan this year and the second time she told us that we were 16th in the Que and then gave us the direct details of the Landscaper
Finally got contact with the Landscaper who got us to fill out another application form (Slightly Different from the first form but with almost the same questions), sent that through on the 17th of Jan and since then have not had another word from them.
So I've sent a few more harshly worded emails off and got a reply from the same Developers Liaison today saying that we are 16th in the Que.
I'm like WTF!!!! are you telling me that the landscaper hasn't done any work since January?
So fricking Frustrating!!!

[hostage_85]

I was told I had to show I had funds in my account via a bank statement but didn't have to pay till final payment.
Mine was the same, Prove the funds were there but didn't have to pay until handover.

[d1mitch]

Got a quick question for those who have built,

At what stage where you required to pay for your pre start? Builder originally told me (verbally) that it was payable prior to key handover, but are now asking for the entire balance to be payed less 3k (24k total). Nothing has gone ahead yet as titles have still yet to be issued, but they are holding us over a barrel for the money before they proceed any further.

Has anyone had a similar experience?

mine was part of the final payment progress payment prior to key handover

[volt_bite]

Anyone built with Dreamstart? Looking at a few potential places.
What are your experiences if you have?

[Phonat]

Cheers heaps for getting back to us guys, pretty much goes along with what others have told me as well. Was having another go over my prestart and variation acceptance forms and they all state that the account is payable at final account, would this be the same as the final progress payment or no?

[REXXXED]

Depends whether you tell your bank about the Prestart changes or not.

If they know about them, they will want the cash upfront so that they hold 100% of funds to fulfil the contract at all times.

[Phonat]

Depends whether you tell your bank about the Prestart changes or not.

If they know about them, they will want the cash upfront so that they hold 100% of funds to fulfil the contract at all times.

It's going to be a cash payment, the bank are aware of the variations but I'm not putting them on the loan.

[Master D]

So I'm in a bit of a pickle.

Signed contracts with Freelife Homes late 2013 ( just before I flew out to singas for them GP) all was sweet and great. Got building license mid April 2014. Slab was down start of May 2014. Bricks completed and done by June 2014 and awawaiting roof timbers.

I had a few arguements with the builder at numerous times due to the plans issued to the brickies being incorrect and a few other issues but nothing that hasn't been fixed after a couple of emails, arguements and discounts :-)

Fast forward to today, just submitted a formal complaint to the building comission as these mother fuckers have not been onsite since July 2014 and last month hit me with a delay due to materials and labour not being readily available.
Which sounds fair but At the time of the contract extension I was 17 days short of the contract lapsing. The interesting part is They haven't been on site in 9 months and roof timbers and guttering have been sitting in my garage for the better part of 5momths.

Just to add to the good news I had a building inspection completed last week as it was close to the end of the contract. The building inspector has identified that there is a downpipe has been missed In the inital lay in of the plumbing works and Subsequently a wall is also missing to make a plumbing duct. As it stands the house doesn't meet building code as the down pipes are too far apart to handle the rainwater. To make a fucked situation worse, try house has been now vandalised by some mother fucker throwing paint all around my "living room".

im going for another meeting today with the general manager of the company as she (like the rest of her company) are fucking useless. After a meeting at the start of December she promised to have roof cover on by Xmas, still hasn't happened.

So building my first home has been turned into my own personal nightmare. just to make the nightmare all the more real , After doing some reasearch on the internubs, I have a highly suspicious feeling that the company is going belly up fast, which could potentially leave me with a house a I can't afford to fix and 70k out of pocket.

So everyone
Freelife Homes or Visionaire Homes are both owned by Capital Works Constructions.

Owned and operated by 2 fuckwits.

Steer clear and ward off any friends who are in the market for a new home. These pingpingpings will take your money and run.

Cheers and many beers.
Dave.

[magic1]

So I'm in a bit of a pickle.

Signed contracts with Freelife Homes late 2013 ( just before I flew out to singas for them GP) all was sweet and great. Got building license mid April 2014. Slab was down start of May 2014. Bricks completed and done by June 2014 and awawaiting roof timbers.

I had a few arguements with the builder at numerous times due to the plans issued to the brickies being incorrect and a few other issues but nothing that hasn't been fixed after a couple of emails, arguements and discounts :-)

Fast forward to today, just submitted a formal complaint to the building comission as these mother fuckers have not been onsite since July 2014 and last month hit me with a delay due to materials and labour not being readily available.
Which sounds fair but At the time of the contract extension I was 17 days short of the contract lapsing. The interesting part is They haven't been on site in 9 months and roof timbers and guttering have been sitting in my garage for the better part of 5momths.

Just to add to the good news I had a building inspection completed last week as it was close to the end of the contract. The building inspector has identified that there is a downpipe has been missed In the inital lay in of the plumbing works and Subsequently a wall is also missing to make a plumbing duct. As it stands the house doesn't meet building code as the down pipes are too far apart to handle the rainwater. To make a fucked situation worse, try house has been now vandalised by some mother fucker throwing paint all around my "living room".

im going for another meeting today with the general manager of the company as she (like the rest of her company) are fucking useless. After a meeting at the start of December she promised to have roof cover on by Xmas, still hasn't happened.

So building my first home has been turned into my own personal nightmare. just to make the nightmare all the more real , After doing some reasearch on the internubs, I have a highly suspicious feeling that the company is going belly up fast, which could potentially leave me with a house a I can't afford to fix and 70k out of pocket.

So everyone
Freelife Homes or Visionaire Homes are both owned by Capital Works Constructions.

Owned and operated by 2 fuckwits.

Steer clear and ward off any friends who are in the market for a new home. These pingpingpings will take your money and run.

Cheers and many beers.
Dave.

dave,

let me know if i can help out at all.

tris

[volt_bite]

Wow that is fucked up. Regardless if it was your first or last home, no one should experience that.

Dave, thanks for telling your story. Hopefully you can find out a solution and please feel free to share it.

Does anyone have tips on researching which builders to use etc?
Note: I've recently signed up to build a house with Dreamstart homes. Anyone have any good/bad experiences?

[Master D]

I've joined the home one forum, plenty of people and info on there.

Failing that Google their name with review on the end and see what you read.

Remember that people are more likely to complain than compliment on a builders work. Maybe just not in situations like mine Because every customer is in the same boat.

Edit.

http://forum.homeone.com.au/viewtopic.php?f=31&t=65967

I've posted up the thread regarding my issues if anyone has a read.
When I signed and was looking - there was only 4 posts about the company.

[volt_bite]

Cheers. You are right. Wondering if anyone had industry experience to comment as well.

But in any case, this thread is pretty much what I am doing (builder and location):
http://forum.homeone.com.au/viewtopic.php?f=31&t=75521

[SimonR32]

So I'm in a bit of a pickle.

Signed contracts with Freelife Homes late 2013 ( just before I flew out to singas for them GP) all was sweet and great. Got building license mid April 2014. Slab was down start of May 2014. Bricks completed and done by June 2014 and awawaiting roof timbers.

I had a few arguements with the builder at numerous times due to the plans issued to the brickies being incorrect and a few other issues but nothing that hasn't been fixed after a couple of emails, arguements and discounts :-)

Fast forward to today, just submitted a formal complaint to the building comission as these mother fuckers have not been onsite since July 2014 and last month hit me with a delay due to materials and labour not being readily available.
Which sounds fair but At the time of the contract extension I was 17 days short of the contract lapsing. The interesting part is They haven't been on site in 9 months and roof timbers and guttering have been sitting in my garage for the better part of 5momths.

Just to add to the good news I had a building inspection completed last week as it was close to the end of the contract. The building inspector has identified that there is a downpipe has been missed In the inital lay in of the plumbing works and Subsequently a wall is also missing to make a plumbing duct. As it stands the house doesn't meet building code as the down pipes are too far apart to handle the rainwater. To make a fucked situation worse, try house has been now vandalised by some mother fucker throwing paint all around my "living room".

im going for another meeting today with the general manager of the company as she (like the rest of her company) are fucking useless. After a meeting at the start of December she promised to have roof cover on by Xmas, still hasn't happened.

So building my first home has been turned into my own personal nightmare. just to make the nightmare all the more real , After doing some reasearch on the internubs, I have a highly suspicious feeling that the company is going belly up fast, which could potentially leave me with a house a I can't afford to fix and 70k out of pocket.

So everyone
Freelife Homes or Visionaire Homes are both owned by Capital Works Constructions.

Owned and operated by 2 fuckwits.

Steer clear and ward off any friends who are in the market for a new home. These pingpingpings will take your money and run.

Cheers and many beers.
Dave.

I would imagine you are right on the money! Maybe ask the GM if they are paying their suppliers and subcontractors yet or is the delays due to no one willing to work for them as they have massive overdue accounts?

Put it this way, ask them who they plan to complete your termite treatment and submit warranty certificates, because as it stands you won't be getting one.

[Nugs]

Wow that is fucked up. Regardless if it was your first or last home, no one should experience that.

Dave, thanks for telling your story. Hopefully you can find out a solution and please feel free to share it.

Does anyone have tips on researching which builders to use etc?
Note: I've recently signed up to build a house with Dreamstart homes. Anyone have any good/bad experiences?
May not be applicable for everyone's process but we got references from architects and customers who had worked with our builder before.

[DRKWRX]

I reckon you're on the money too about them going bankrupt, there is no way they cant find materials and trades for that long, might just have to get all your plans n stuff off them and get a small builder to complete the house for you, shit situation hope it works out for you.

[mr_rotary]

I've joined the home one forum, plenty of people and info on there.

Home one Forum *shudder*

Coming from a building background take what you read on that site with a handful of salt.
A significant amount of amateurs on there who think they know it all when in fact it's the total opposite.
Builders genuinely try to help out but just get flamed so they just steer clear.

Your better off posting in this thread and getting advice from people who are in the business.

[mr_rotary]

So I'm in a bit of a pickle.
So building my first home has been turned into my own personal nightmare. just to make the nightmare all the more real , After doing some reasearch on the internubs, I have a highly suspicious feeling that the company is going belly up fast, which could potentially leave me with a house a I can't afford to fix and 70k out of pocket.

So everyone
Freelife Homes or Visionaire Homes are both owned by Capital Works Constructions.


Sorry to hear this is happening to you. Never heard of that builder. It may take a few weeks to obtain trades but not that many months. Too many builders popping up during the boom and struggle in the quiet times. Often they don't price the homes adequately enough to cover costs with too many 'promo's or they don't add fat to the price to cater for situations when they are unable to find trades extending the build time = more costs as trade/materials costs rise.

If they do go bust, you are covered by Housing Indemnity Insurance from HIA. What happens is another builder will pick-up where the build left off. Sometimes if the sums are good another builder will buy-out that builder and finish off the home. We've done that in the past. Contact HIA for more info.

[SimonR32]

I would imagine you are right on the money! Maybe ask the GM if they are paying their suppliers and subcontractors yet or is the delays due to no one willing to work for them as they have massive overdue accounts?

Put it this way, ask them who they plan to complete your termite treatment and submit warranty certificates, because as it stands you won't be getting one.

I'll be more blunt in this post than my last.

They owe my company a significant amount of money, they keep delaying payment dates due to cash flow problems. It has become untenable for us so we have taken legal action and the word around town is many/most of the other trades and suppliers are doing the same. We have also stopped any works with the company which has a significant impact on being able to provide completion of any current contracts (they can't just use another company as they won't warrant the work and then it won't pass council requirements).

Hate to be the bearer of bad news but don't delay taking action against them on a wish that it all will turn out ok. It's at the point where it's almost certain that it won't, either they will fall into administration or if they keep trying to save the sinking ship bailiffs will start ceasing equipment and property to recover debts

[cactus]

State Government under-writes HII now - QBE and Calliden issue policies so best to get in contact with which-ever your policy is with.

[ossie_21]

Done a thread search but couldn't get a decent result, but has anyone here built with Affordable Living? Just after some ideas of how it all went & how the experience went, PM if needed :) cheers

[siladee]

Have sent a pm

[Nickevox]

Pads are both down, now for them to dry up, slowing but surely.

Anyone have any recommendations for kitchen cabinets/design companies? Hit up Homebase on the weekend but like to see some more example designs.

http://igcdn-photos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xaf1/t51.2885-15/11176345_1588547924695413_281809475_n.jpg

[Joe]

Character Cabinets.

They did ours exactly as we wanted, they were reasonably priced (compared to other quotes we received), bent over backwards for us on several occasions, and the quality is faultless.

[DRKWRX]

ones based in Armadale? need some done too and that would be nice and close.

[Joe]

Yep, the ones in Armadale.

[Sensible]

Characters do all my company's work (about 80 per year) and always good standard of work, Nat also has his own stonemasons next door to do stone tops

Also look at Carpenter cabinets in Armadale, a bit more high end work and also a bit more expensive than Characters

[2LMILK]

Im after someone to do the walk in robes at home.

Anyone have recommendation for that

Got quoted $2300 to do both his/her in 16mm mdf. thought that was reasonable.

[RELEASE]

Im after someone to do the walk in robes at home.

Anyone have recommendation for that

Got quoted $2300 to do both his/her in 16mm mdf. thought that was reasonable.we used lifestyle wardrobes for our walk in and couldn't be happier and everyone that's seen it definitely loves it.
I had our other rooms built in robes done yesterday by Stegbar as they are standard sizing plus mates dad works there so got a good price.

[hostage_85]

My brother is a Cabinet Maker. Always days a quality Job.
His business is: "Dream Made Interiors"
Call Chris on: 0403 579 240.

[Lmx]

Characters do all my company's work (about 80 per year) and always good standard of work, Nat also has his own stonemasons next door to do stone tops

Also look at Carpenter cabinets in Armadale, a bit more high end work and also a bit more expensive than Characters
Who do you work for :P?
Hope it wasn't http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-05-05/builder-dale-alcock-sheds-jobs-in-wa-as-new-homes-numbers-drop/6446902

But i'm sure they'd be doing more than 80 per year

[DRKWRX]

Marble waterfall top went in this week, good to see it done after waiting so long! 3.2 metre top in one piece.

http://s21.postimg.org/tmba182qv/marbletop.jpg (http://postimage.org/)

http://s24.postimg.org/adjprub2d/marbletop2.jpg (http://postimage.org/)

[Sensible]

Who do you work for :P?
Hope it wasn't http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-05-05/builder-dale-alcock-sheds-jobs-in-wa-as-new-homes-numbers-drop/6446902

But i'm sure they'd be doing more than 80 per year

No not working for Dale we are a small builder doing mainly apartment style delvelopments

Sadly it is a sign of the times in construction now and we are going through a restructure also and have laid off a few guys already

[ENYXR]

Didn't want to start a whole new thread for this but my partner is looking to buy a place (not wanting to build).

Opinions on stretching budget to get closer to the city (belmont and surrounding suburbs) or buying a little further out (cannington sort of area)
She's not wanting anything huge, just a 2 or 3 bedroom place with enough yard to have a small dog and parking for at least 2 cars.

[Byah!]

I kinda lean towards central locations.

Thing is I commute to work in the CBD every day and know people that loose 1.5 hours each way as they live further out....15 hours a week is a lot.

This loss in time can be reduced greatly if you live near a train station tho.

Having said that I did stay at my mates place in Bentley and it took me like 10 min in the car to get to work (at the right time)

If I was not working in the city then yeah id prob look further out to save coin.

[180SXTCY]

Buy the best you can afford comfortably. Rate are good now but make sure if they go up you can still afford.

[Byah!]

I gotta get a geotechnical site classification report done.

Anyone know a good company to use? Seems like most of Perth use Structerre and I could only find one or two others.....

[waxdass]

Here’s an example of when investment properties go horribly wrong.

Purchased in 2011 for $300k in Jurien Bay.
http://house.getsoldprice.com.au/sold-price/WA/311156406/LOT_184_CAMERON_STREET_Jurien_Bay_WA/

Repainted inside and out, polished floor boards and new floorings, several thousands of dollars spent on the make over. Fencing and gardens also done. Its still an old school beach house but its now a funky beach house not a hovel.
Its been on the market for at least 2 years, initially over $400k from memory. Now it $310k, only $10k more than the purchase price back in 2011. The link below is the same property now.
http://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-jurien+bay-118280295

The holiday homes and big toys (boats/jetski’s) are always the first things to be sold off in a downturn.

[HotAe92]

Here’s an example of when investment properties go horribly wrong.

Purchased in 2011 for $300k in Jurien Bay.
http://house.getsoldprice.com.au/sold-price/WA/311156406/LOT_184_CAMERON_STREET_Jurien_Bay_WA/

Repainted inside and out, polished floor boards and new floorings, several thousands of dollars spent on the make over. Fencing and gardens also done. Its still an old school beach house but its now a funky beach house not a hovel.
Its been on the market for at least 2 years, initially over $400k from memory. Now it $310k, only $10k more than the purchase price back in 2011. The link below is the same property now.
http://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-jurien+bay-118280295

The holiday homes and big toys (boats/jetski’s) are always the first things to be sold off in a downturn.

But can some holiday houses really be classed as a true financial investment per se?

I'd think they'd have plenty of memories of good times had at the holiday house. Enough to soften the sting of the $$$ spent on the reno's? Who knows.

[magic1]

I gotta get a geotechnical site classification report done.

Anyone know a good company to use? Seems like most of Perth use Structerre and I could only find one or two others.....

Sent you a PM,

Tristan

[volt_bite]

But can some holiday houses really be classed as a true financial investment per se?

I'd think they'd have plenty of memories of good times had at the holiday house. Enough to soften the sting of the $$$ spent on the reno's? Who knows.

Holiday houses are exactly as they seem 99% of the time. They are for *rich* people who can afford to lose money and offset those losses against their high income.

The only time I can think of that could make them good coin is in the value of the land, and subsequent development and subdivision.

[mr_rotary]

Didn't want to start a whole new thread for this but my partner is looking to buy a place (not wanting to build).

Opinions on stretching budget to get closer to the city (belmont and surrounding suburbs) or buying a little further out (cannington sort of area)
She's not wanting anything huge, just a 2 or 3 bedroom place with enough yard to have a small dog and parking for at least 2 cars.

A heap of nice properties around Nollamara.

[mr_rotary]

Here’s an example of when investment properties go horribly wrong.

Purchased in 2011 for $300k in Jurien Bay.
http://house.getsoldprice.com.au/sold-price/WA/311156406/LOT_184_CAMERON_STREET_Jurien_Bay_WA/

Repainted inside and out, polished floor boards and new floorings, several thousands of dollars spent on the make over. Fencing and gardens also done. Its still an old school beach house but its now a funky beach house not a hovel.
Its been on the market for at least 2 years, initially over $400k from memory. Now it $310k, only $10k more than the purchase price back in 2011. The link below is the same property now.
http://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-jurien+bay-118280295

The holiday homes and big toys (boats/jetski’s) are always the first things to be sold off in a downturn.

Had it happen to a mate in early 2000 when the mining industry had a down turn and his over time was cut and he had to sell the investment property. That was the days when home used to sit on the market of a few months before selling. Nearly lost his own home too. Investment property was Perth metro.

[Phildo]

Didn't want to start a whole new thread for this but my partner is looking to buy a place (not wanting to build).

Opinions on stretching budget to get closer to the city (belmont and surrounding suburbs) or buying a little further out (cannington sort of area)
She's not wanting anything huge, just a 2 or 3 bedroom place with enough yard to have a small dog and parking for at least 2 cars.

Have a look at Kewdale - little to no Homeswest housing there. Homeswest houses = drama. Plenty of that in Belmont/Cloverdale/Redcliffe.

For cheaper, look at Bassendean.

[huggy_b]

Didn't want to start a whole new thread for this but my partner is looking to buy a place (not wanting to build).

Opinions on stretching budget to get closer to the city (belmont and surrounding suburbs) or buying a little further out (cannington sort of area)
She's not wanting anything huge, just a 2 or 3 bedroom place with enough yard to have a small dog and parking for at least 2 cars.

And her budget is?
Preferred locations (obviously SOR from the list you've given)?

[ENYXR]

She's going to meet with a broker tomorrow but I don't think she'd want to go too far over ~400.
Hoping to stay as close to Belmont as possible at the moment, whether that's realistic or not we're not sure as she only made the decision to buy very recently

[volt_bite]

As above, just becareful if she's going to struggle making the repayments on 400k because I think the only way the rates will go is up from now. It's extremely low right now but won't stay like that forever.

[waxdass]

I would hold off purchasing anything atm, if she can manage.

http://reiwa.com.au/the-wa-market/perth-metro/

look at the volume, post GFC level atm.

[Trolley]

She's going to meet with a broker tomorrow but I don't think she'd want to go too far over ~400.
Hoping to stay as close to Belmont as possible at the moment, whether that's realistic or not we're not sure as she only made the decision to buy very recently

Unless she has 150k+ in the bank, wish her luck. I spent 34 years in Belmont and couldn't afford to buy there. Ended up building in the Swan Valley near Lilac Hill... arguably a bit nicer than some parts of Belmont, haha. Depends if she is happy with a 2 Bedroom FIFO apartment next to 7 others or a little villa next to a bunch of old farts + renters.

[mr_rotary]

I'm looking to buy soon and have noticed a few homes 'sitting' around not selling quickly like they used to.
Interesting to see that decline in Median house prices.

There is a lot of staff getting laid off in the new home builders segment.
One new homes volume builder has also gone bust past fortnight with 350ish houses on the books.

[180SXTCY]

^freelife homes?

[volt_bite]

Two in the past few months:
Freelife - https://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/27709009/builder-freelife-homes-collapses/

Robinson Build Tech - https://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/26724849/family-owned-builder-collapses/

[Miggy]

Can anyone recommend a good exposed aggregate company? I want around 150sqm done.

[Jaak]

Got an email my house it at lock-up phase. Went to have a look on the weekend and it had the wrong colour roof on, haha. Colorbond Wallaby instead of Surf mist. This is going to be fun

[Sensible]

How Do you order grey instead of white?

[Jaak]

Originally it was grey ,but during pre-start our black feature wall colour got knocked back, had to be cream or red brick , so we changed from black and grey , to red and white colour scheme. Everything else is the same as the new variation bar the roof , neighbour got a white roof , wonder if it got mixed up.

[benjamino]

After 21 long and painful months, we're finally done. Picked the keys up this morning.

Time to smash the painting, tiles, blinds, carpets in, and get to moving in.

Will post some progress pics as I go!

Anyone got any advice for CCTV/Home security?

[d1mitch]

Originally it was grey ,but during pre-start our black feature wall colour got knocked back, had to be cream or red brick , so we changed from black and grey , to red and white colour scheme. Everything else is the same as the new variation bar the roof , neighbour got a white roof , wonder if it got mixed up.

this is why I checked my house regularly to pick up before they made mistakes like this

[Nickevox]

After 21 long and painful months, we're finally done. Picked the keys up this morning.

Time to smash the painting, tiles, blinds, carpets in, and get to moving in.

Will post some progress pics as I go!

Anyone got any advice for CCTV/Home security?

21months! damn son. Our units got started yesterday morning and half of one unit is done

[rgvlee]

Anyone got any advice for CCTV/Home security?

Yeah, work out a budget and go from there.
In terms of CCTV main thing will be how many cameras you want to run as it will determine a number of things.
You can get cheap cctv kits which I've not used personally but generally come with everything ready to roll.
You can get wireless kits as well.
From what I have seen the resolution varies from rubbish to ok. The more you spend the better it gets. For a 4 camera wired kit you'd be looking at around the $500 mark, possibly less I don't follow these as the quality is not good enough for me.

If you want the good stuff you're looking at digital, IP cameras, dvr/NAS, POE switches and so on.
This is what I run. I use $120 china spec cameras that are surprisingly good quality, probably because they are branded rather than no name.
2048 x 1536 resolution and will make out licence plates at decent distance with the right lens.
If you run 4 or less cameras TP link do a cheap POE switch for $100 then you just need to hook it up to something to do the recording. This can vary from a simple local FTP to a pc or nas running surveillance software. I run the latter and use it for my media storage and everything else.
If you run more than 4 cameras the POE switches get expensive.
I would think for 4 cameras with a switch and synology NAS you'd be sub $1500. The big cost will be the NAS and how many cameras it can support.
It costs more but you get much more for it. It can become more than just a surveillance solution, handles all your home storage needs, media etc. It is completely flexible, you can generally use any camera you want, expand the system etc provided that some of the critical stuff such as the switch and the nas can support the numbers. So a bit of pre planning goes a long way.

All of those costs would be + install. Install isn't hard, for the digital route the hardest thing is running the network cable and crimping.

[dmwill]

Can't justify a separate thread...

Having a 2nd look at a place in Sinagra tomorrow before I consider making an offer.

Pros/Cons of area?

The place is about 500m north-west of the Ingham Chicken farm or whatever. Google search gives mixed opinions about odour from the place. There is also a push to make them close/move within the next few years.

Have wondered up there a couple of times this week at different times and just drove around, no funky smells, but the wind has been going in the wrong direction.

[MadDocker]

Chicken farms stink bad I know that much. The one down Ranford Rd and the one up Forrestfield way both reek when the wind pushes it in your direction. 500m isn't very far so you might be smelling that nasty shit a fair bit. Maybe take a drive up there, park up and walk around for a bit??

[Joe]

Don't fool yourself.. it stinks.

I drive past it regularly and it does depend on the direction of the wind.

[Scousey]

Yep that chicken farm stinks. I use to live in Joondalup on the other side of the lake and you could smell it there with a decent easterly.

[dmwill]

Figured it would smell like shit, particularly with the wind going in the right direction.

Probably explains why it's been on the market for 8-9 weeks.

[siladee]

I live in sinagra and haven't smelt it once from my house, I do however smell it everyday when I go down wanneroo road

[siladee]

Just checked with the other people I live with and they haven't either. In saying that I'm about as far away from it as you can get within sinagra

[rgvlee]

Question for the sparkies...
On the plans I have an external cavity wall with cavity insulation.
Will it still be possible to chase cabling up this cavity once built?
Though it's not much cost I don't want to chase in conduits unless I have to, I'm not sure if I will ever use them to begin with - it's for surround sound cabing etc.

I would have thought there would still be room though it'd be tight.
If the cavity will not be usable then I'll add the conduits to be safe.

[Sensible]

Question for the sparkies...
On the plans I have an external cavity wall with cavity insulation.
Will it still be possible to chase cabling up this cavity once built?
Though it's not much cost I don't want to chase in conduits unless I have to, I'm not sure if I will ever use them to begin with - it's for surround sound cabing etc.

I would have thought there would still be room though it'd be tight.
If the cavity will not be usable then I'll add the conduits to be safe.

Depending on what insulation is used, there are a few around now one is a 6mm product with foil on both sides another is like a batt that is in your ceiling and fills the whole cavity

If it is the foil product then you will still be able to get a 'snake' up the cavity to run cables if it is the other type then you have no chance of getting anything up the cavity

[Nickevox]

What would you do if you were in my boots, story goes;

Got a call from my builder saying the neighbour wants to sue us because the builder damaged his driveway.. but the driveway is/was already cracked/broken/missing parts and now wants us to pay for it to be replaced! The funny thing, the builder asked if they can park a crane/truck on it full of metal/lintels and he said ‘yes you can’.

I have before/after pics of the damage also, thoughts?

[MadDocker]

Wouldn't this be between the builder and the next door neighbor? Nothing to do with you where the builder parks his crane?

[xr6tego]

Alot can be said about getting on with your neighbours. Who wants to walk out your front door and see someone you hate everyday?

Try and reach an amicable agreement with him, but i'm sure your builder has come across this a few times before so he should be all over it with sorting it out. Show the neighbour the before and after photos.

Goodluck.

[thommo]

sell up

[volt_bite]

Another thing to be wary of, some of these new building contracts do not cover the builder for damage to neighbors and surrounding areas. A bit shit really.

[_S9_]

Why is the builder even calling you to tell you this?
The builder damaged his driveway (allegedly) - it has nothing to do with you.

[Nickevox]

What Marshall said.
Golden shake was made, we only agreed to cost + for the units, therefore its not covered in this.

So, in terms of sorting this out, should I go halves as really, it was broken prior but now its smashed due to the crane parking on it as im not prepared to pay for the entire thing to be fixed as it was already missing pieces/cracked/broken.

[volt_bite]

Yeah, I think negotiate that.

Say you will restore it to how it was previously lol. Fix it and then crack it back up haha.

But seriously, don't pay for anything more than you need to. Only agree to pay for the sections that were damaged by the crane - tell him/her that's what you are liable for. If they want more repairs, they pay the rest to be done. Something along those lines.

Perhaps get some quotes first.

[TJ]

What would you do if you were in my boots, story goes;

Got a call from my builder saying the neighbour wants to sue us because the builder damaged his driveway.. but the driveway is/was already cracked/broken/missing parts and now wants us to pay for it to be replaced! The funny thing, the builder asked if they can park a crane/truck on it full of metal/lintels and he said ‘yes you can’.

I have before/after pics of the damage also, thoughts?

Before and after pics?

If they show the damage, tell the builder to tell them to fuck off.

Not you personally, keep the relationship good.

[dmanvan]

^^ both builder and you should be covered with insurance for any scenario. There is also verge insurance that usually has to be taken out by builder/home owner in many shires when works are being done on a property. This is to cover damage to verge or council services.

So before /after pics certainly handy for whatever claim takes place or to minimise claim against you to show little damage after.

Consent on their part doesn't excuse excess damage, if any. But pictures will go a long way to help the case if neighbour is trying one on to get a new driveway based on prior damage.

..

[Nickevox]

Yeah, I think negotiate that.

Say you will restore it to how it was previously lol. Fix it and then crack it back up haha.

But seriously, don't pay for anything more than you need to. Only agree to pay for the sections that were damaged by the crane - tell him/her that's what you are liable for. If they want more repairs, they pay the rest to be done. Something along those lines.

Perhaps get some quotes first.
Yeah thats what I was planning, only pay for the damage the crane causes, so that equals to paying for half a slab x 2, so 1 full slab

[SimonR32]

Our house has been entered into the HIA awards this year so the builder (Right Homes) got a photographer out to take some pics for the entry. We are both really happy with the house and the service we got from a small builder, I would recommend them to anyone and they do everything from cheap developments up.

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0891_zpsa7jxr5x1.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0891_zpsa7jxr5x1.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0896_zpskvodtrph.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0896_zpskvodtrph.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0833_zpsbrsdulh8.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0833_zpsbrsdulh8.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0841_zpslvaruh6w.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0841_zpslvaruh6w.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0821_zpshqx5mfv6.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0821_zpshqx5mfv6.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0846_zpsziczus3w.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0846_zpsziczus3w.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0844_zps3zsxrjtc.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0844_zps3zsxrjtc.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0803_zpsje930pmm.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0803_zpsje930pmm.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0807_zpshyt2yncu.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0807_zpshyt2yncu.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0862_zps8yimzasv.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0862_zps8yimzasv.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0865_6_7_tonemapped_zpsj8z5e2b4.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0865_6_7_tonemapped_zpsj8z5e2b4.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0784_zps0uoxo7fa.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0784_zps0uoxo7fa.jpg.html)

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0795_zpsu9nkiiku.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0795_zpsu9nkiiku.jpg.html)

[MadDocker]

Some nice stuff there. Dining table is awesome. Love the stacker doors and windows in the living area/kitchen also.

Edit: How annoying are the rocks around the slabs in the front path?? Are you constantly sweeping them off the slabs and picking them out of the grass?

[hako]

2 Fast 2 Furious poster is an interesting choice.

Entertaining areas look great, only thing I would change is bathroom tiling but can be done down the track.

Well done!

[SimonR32]

2 Fast 2 Furious poster is an interesting choice.

Entertaining areas look great, only thing I would change is bathroom tiling but can be done down the track.

Well done!

Present from missus... There is a Casino Royale one on the other side, 50% strike rate :)

Bathroom tiling doesn't look like that in real life, they look a lot lighter and better (also not my choice) haha

[SimonR32]

Edit: How annoying are the rocks around the slabs in the front path?? Are you constantly sweeping them off the slabs and picking them out of the grass?

Not annoying, they hardly move... A few here and there but nothing a few kicks while walking past doesn't fix

[MadDocker]

Nice. I like the look of it and have been thinking about putting something like that down my dead side with pot plants and my veggie garden. Hadn't got onto it because thought I'd be constantly cleaning rocks off the pavers so just have rocks at the moment. Might get onto it over the Christmas break.

[volt_bite]

Wow, your house is amazing! :D

How much did it end up costing if you don't mind me asking?

[mr_rotary]

Impressive fit and finish!!

PS - Photoshop the bin out of the first pic.

[mys1]

Could have put the bin away...

[Master D]

So i have progress. After a minor delay (12months) in proceedings my house has kicked back off again.

Freelife/ capital works constructions made the news and have all gone under for millions.
The director has a shopping list of charges and my insurance paid out so i could build with a more reputable company.

Aveling homes has picked up the remainder of the build and have worked around freelifes fuck ups to make good and complete my home.
The beginings of the site clean kicked off last night with all thr old roof timber being removed from site and the sign going up out the front.
Should see completion in 3-4months.

Cannot wait.

[volt_bite]

I've seen some very good things from Aveling homes. Hope it all goes well!

[180SXTCY]

I built with Aveling one of their display homes. I was very happy with there quality and customer service.

[Scaf]

http://i773.photobucket.com/albums/yy15/SimonR32GTR/_MG_0865_6_7_tonemapped_zpsj8z5e2b4.jpg (http://s773.photobucket.com/user/SimonR32GTR/media/_MG_0865_6_7_tonemapped_zpsj8z5e2b4.jpg.html)


House looks great mate! What is the alfresco flooring? Tiled?

[DRKWRX]

^^ nice house, Got our keys today! timber floor starts next week.

[SimonR32]

House looks great mate! What is the alfresco flooring? Tiled?

600X600 tiles. Looks awesome and makes seamless integration with the house but very slippery when wet!

[SSICK]

love it Simon. picked a nice colour for the feature strip lighting too

[benjamino]

I've been in for almost a fortnight now, things are coming along slowly. My house has been nominated for the HIA awards for:
-slowest build time
-most creative sandpit
-best front door

Some progress photos from the last couple of years.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/393/18747782213_d4621fa5f3_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/uyFhun)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/264/19182258229_73cf8a6257_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ve565a)

Careless tradies folding in the sliding door rails, alfresco door was useless and needed to be replaced, among several other things during construction (people stepping through ceilings/alfresco ceilings, shitty plastering, sinking driveway)
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/294/19180772430_2543b84a0a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/vdWtoW)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/381/19368408575_7032f7f71e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/vvwa5T)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/441/19372467091_d24f86010e_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/vvSXxi)

The builder assigned random colours for our front render even though we chose different ones initially, however flicking through all of the contract pages, we initialled their selection and were forced to accept it how it was, which looked fucking awful.
https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3686/19342309226_16438cbfc3_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/vtdoE7)

So we bought some paint straight after handover and made it slightly more acceptable.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/320/19180800468_84d146f8fc_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/vdWBJm)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/515/19180797458_04bc950d41_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/vdWAQs)

https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3700/19342280736_dac83b7ca3_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/vtdfbU)

https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3717/18747712743_d5b686e25c_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/uyEVQB)


Next is unpacking all of our shit and finishing the master with besides, storage for the WIR, lights, etc.
Study, need desks, PC, storage
Living room, need sofas, wall unit, TV
Skirting, then the backyard!

[Ash]

So i just spent 2 hours going through the thread and only got to page 29, some great info which i have noted, i hope this hasn't already been asked but if it has my apologies, I am building my first house and am looking at a 2 story, im currently talking to 101 homes but im not overly happy with the pre fab style 2nd floor i would prefer brick, does anyone have a decent 2 story home builder they can recommenced, budget is around $400,000.

[rgvlee]

Really? I'm not a fan of their second floor elevations but the methodology/materials from what I have read are great.
The WA obsession with double brick, when compared to other construction materials, is silly. I'm building in the hills and I would have loved to have built a timber frame house with walls filled with insulation but I just couldn't find anyone who could compete with double brick on construction and resale costs.

[Trolley]

I've been in my first/newly built home for just over a year. After seeing Simon's post, I'm going to walk into my house this afternoon thinking "what a pile of shit".

Thanks Simon.

[mr_rotary]

Really? I'm not a fan of their second floor elevations but the methodology/materials from what I have read are great.
The WA obsession with double brick, when compared to other construction materials, is silly. I'm building in the hills and I would have loved to have built a timber frame house with walls filled with insulation but I just couldn't find anyone who could compete with double brick on construction and resale costs.Next time send me a PM!!!

[volt_bite]

I've been in my first/newly built home for just over a year. After seeing Simon's post, I'm going to walk into my house this afternoon thinking "what a pile of shit".

Thanks Simon.

At least it's your pile of shit.

or the banks.

[Joe]

My house is also entered in 3 categories of the HIA awards, but I'll pass on posting the photographs.. You can view the professional photography if you're mates with me on the Facebook.

[d1mitch]

So i just spent 2 hours going through the thread and only got to page 29, some great info which i have noted, i hope this hasn't already been asked but if it has my apologies, I am building my first house and am looking at a 2 story, im currently talking to 101 homes but im not overly happy with the pre fab style 2nd floor i would prefer brick, does anyone have a decent 2 story home builder they can recommenced, budget is around $400,000.

as one of the other guys said WA has a strange obsession with double brick which is slowly subsiding with the like of 101 and Ben Trager and other dipping into prefab and stud frame construction.

I have a friend who works for Ben Trager, their houses are pretty nice, let me know if you are interested in chatting to someone from there and ill get you in contact.

I built with 101 btw.

[rgvlee]

Next time send me a PM!!!

There won't be a next time. If you're in the game post up details for others?

[magic1]

as one of the other guys said WA has a strange obsession with double brick which is slowly subsiding with the like of 101 and Ben Trager and other dipping into prefab and stud frame construction.

I have a friend who works for Ben Trager, their houses are pretty nice, let me know if you are interested in chatting to someone from there and ill get you in contact.

I built with 101 btw.

hands down the worst house I have had to inspect/condemn was a 101 built home.

[RGVFAST]

Sovereign building company built my 2 story (I bought established) they have some clever ideas and neat designs.

[Ash]

as one of the other guys said WA has a strange obsession with double brick which is slowly subsiding with the like of 101 and Ben Trager and other dipping into prefab and stud frame construction.

I have a friend who works for Ben Trager, their houses are pretty nice, let me know if you are interested in chatting to someone from there and ill get you in contact.

I built with 101 btw.

Yea i dont live far from the airport, im not in the flight path but i can hear them fire up at night, most builders are saying double brick is better for sound deadening but it is more expensive. Also the 101 2nd floor has a wood floor and if i have guests up stairs and they want to make some noise im worried it will be a bit noisy. Im far from a professional when it comes to building but i know what i like.

[DRKWRX]

Not going to bag out any builders but please look at other builders other than the ones posted in the above comments. "Edit" except for sovereign.

[Pete]

600X600 tiles. Looks awesome and makes seamless integration with the house but very slippery when wet!

Our tiling spills onto the alfresco ( we have the timber look tiles ), honestly think it's one of the best things we done. It lines up perfectly, and makes it flow nicely when you're looking out from the kitchen. Ours are an internal/external tiles so not slippery when it's wet.

[SimonR32]

Our tiling spills onto the alfresco ( we have the timber look tiles ), honestly think it's one of the best things we done. It lines up perfectly, and makes it flow nicely when you're looking out from the kitchen. Ours are an internal/external tiles so not slippery when it's wet.

We have high gloss Nano tiles internally, was advised to not get them outside so we got a more matt finish in a similar colour.... Still slippery when wet but it's not an issue. The dog does some epic drifts/ crashes after the retic has been on haha

Through our 2 double stacking doors it almost looks seamless, awesome option and we got the tile joints to line up internal/external and zero threshold doors so it's all basically level. Makes the space feel bigger than it actually is,

[Pete]

We have stackers as well ( 4510 wide ) but we dropped the alfresco lower as it faces west so we cop the rain into there if it's very windy. Wish we got a darker coloured frame though, but still happy.

[jaba]

Opinions on this layout? Anything you guys would change. This is a Photoshopped plan Idid to add the changes I wanted, so the dimension in some of the adjusted rooms aren't correct.

Mainly changed the master bedroom layout, added a bar and moved the wall between the theatre and bed 2 to make the bedroom a little larger.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee445/jaba3112/2.Allure%20modified%202_zpsq3xloyut.png (http://s1228.photobucket.com/user/jaba3112/media/2.Allure%20modified%202_zpsq3xloyut.png.html)

Comparison of standard / modified.

http://i1228.photobucket.com/albums/ee445/jaba3112/Comparison_zpsl1kfczag.png (http://s1228.photobucket.com/user/jaba3112/media/Comparison_zpsl1kfczag.png.html)


And on that note, has anyone built with Ventura before? Any horror stories? Will have to spend a few hours having a read of this thread.

[UXX127]

If the garage is going to be on The boundary or close to it, put a roller door or at least a door into the garage from the back

And I would leave the theatre room it's orginal size. A 4x3 bed 2 is big enough, ull always want a bigger theatre room. A bloke your age and lifestyle will get more use from the theatre room then a bigger spare bedroom

[SimonR32]

Get the wc to open inwards or it will piss you off when it's open and half blocking your wir. Also probably will want more natural light in the bathroom. Also why the bar? I've seen many home bars in the past... None ever get used ever!

Agree with UXX127 on all his points

[Gazza]

And on that note, has anyone built with Ventura before? Any horror stories?

We have just built in bullsbrook. Speaking with a fex of our neighbours, ventura homes seem to have the most problems. 1 house stands out from the rest, mismatched roof tiles, incorrect kitchen layout/colours, broken stormwater drain (which overflowed into garage and destroyed 3 tvs) but the icing on the cake is they have to pull their entire ensuite apart due to poor tiling (they put cardboard behind tiles to level them off) needless to say, they are off to court.

[DRKWRX]

lol at cardboard behind tiles wtf!!!!

[UXX127]

Wow that really is shocking

[Joe]

I'd be down at their office kicking over their pot plants.

[Byah!]

I'd be down at their office kicking over their pot plants.

Having dealt with building disputes for the parents I'd agree with this strategy.

Builders don't respond to diplomacy. I literally wasted years trying to sort problems outside of enforcement channels (building comission etc) regarding poor workmanship and absence of features paid for (like sink wells)

If I had to do it again I would be much more forceful.

[2LMILK]

venture are a sad buisness of "smart homes"

they are not very smart

I built with commodore homes via rob parker, rob is no long with commodore as they are useless and he is not.

Rob is now at ross north, a friend has built with them and has zero issues. i had 20 in the 1st week

https://www.facebook.com/robprototype?fref=ts

[rgvlee]

Hey all, I need to get some survey work done on my block in Brigadoon.
Anyone on here in the game or got any surveyor recommendations/good experiences to share?

[magic1]

Hey all, I need to get some survey work done on my block in Brigadoon.
Anyone on here in the game or got any surveyor recommendations/good experiences to share?

Craig Maloney
https://www.facebook.com/SpektreOz?fref=ts