Frequently asked questions
I want to build a new home. Where do I start?
You start by arranging an appointment with your local Hotondo Homes builder. Hotondo Homes can assist with finance, house and land packages, land availability and the selection of a home that suits your needs, preferences, and budget.
Should I consult with my builder before I buy a block of land?
Yes, it is recommended you discuss your intended land purchase with your builder as they can assist you in finding a suitable block. If you are independently purchasing a block of land, we can check the available building envelope (the area within the allotment for construction) as this will vary across estates.
With so many designs to choose from, how do I make the perfect choice for me?
There is a range of tools available on the Hotondo Homes website that can help you find a design you not only love, but will also suit your family’s needs. Our Home Navigator and 3DExplore tools were created to help you find your ideal design.
The Home Navigator is a short, fun quiz that will ask questions about your current lifestyle and plans for the future. It will then present you with a number of designs that perfectly suit your requirements.
3DExplore offers a revolutionary experience that allows you to virtually ‘walk through’ any Hotondo Homes display home in Australia. The tour will give you a real-life feel for the design from the comfort of your own couch.
Alternatively, you can visit your local Hotondo Homes builder who will be more than happy to discuss your needs and present you with a range of designs best suited to your lifestyle, block and budget.
Can I make changes to the plan?
Yes, all Hotondo Homes floor plans are flexible, and can be modified to suit you and your family’s requirements. Your Hotondo Homes builder will help you throughout this process and will work with you to ensure your changes will not compromise the structural integrity of the home.
When do I start paying?
Once you’ve met with your local builder and selected your design, you will be required to pay an initial fee in order to conduct an on-site soil and contour survey.
After you’ve completed your colour selections and specification for your new home, we will present you with a new home estimate.
Once you have accepted the price estimate, a further fee is payable to prepare working drawings, engineering and all relevant information to proceed to the contract stage.
Upon signing your Building Contract, you will be required to pay the remainder of your deposit. You will need to pay the balance of 5 or 10 per cent (state varied) of your contract value less the deposits already paid in order for the builder to commence construction, on condition that the land has titled.
The Building Contract will also include a payment schedule consisting of progress payments.
Please note payment schedules may differ from builder to builder, so it is always best to consult your local builder about their payment process.
Can I provide my own supplies or perform my own work?
No, Hotondo Homes does not allow clients to perform any of their own work, including plumbing, painting, electrical or fitting any products until the home has been handed over. Clients are also unable to provide any supplies to the builder. All fittings must be selected from the Hotondo Homes range, otherwise they can be added once the handover process has been completed.
Do you build on sloping sites?
Yes, our Sanctuary Split Level Range offers a collection of homes designed specifically for sloping blocks. If you find a different design that you really love, your Hotondo Homes builder may be able to modify it to suit your land requirements.
Can I access my home throughout the building process?
Only if you make arrangements with your builder to meet them on site and this can be done safely. Due to occupational health and safety requirements, you will not be able to access the site of your new home throughout construction unsupervised.
I already have a block of land. How can I find out if the design I like will fit the block?
If you have purchased your block of land and it is located in a new land estate, you will have received documents pertaining to the Design Guidelines and other stipulations governing the building requirements for that estate.
Arrange an appointment with your Hotondo Homes builder and bring all the relevant documents to the meeting. Your builder will check the width of the home frontage and any setback requirements (the distance between your home and the site boundaries).
Following this, they will be able to advise which designs are best suited to your land. If you have a sloping site, your builder can determine whether your chosen design will work with the block or if any extra site works will be required.
Do you use reputable, well-known products and brands?
Hotondo Homes builders use nationally recognised companies as their preferred business partners. All products are installed correctly and are in line with the relevant Australian standards and building codes.
What type of warranty will I receive with my home?
Every new home is covered by a statutory maintenance and warranty period. Please contact your local Hotondo Homes builder for comprehensive details on coverage.
What happens once my home is complete?
Once your home is complete, you will be required to conduct a Practical Completion Inspection (PCI) with your builder. At this time you’re able to list any touch ups for the builder to resolve before the final inspection and handover. At the handover stage, you will receive the keys to your new Hotondo Home and the warranty and maintenance period will begin. You can report any general maintenance issues with your builder, which will be completed within a reasonable timeframe after the allocated maintenance inspection has been conducted.
