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• What are Kit Homes? | Home Building 101

Dreaming of a new home but worried about the cost and timeline? Kit homes might just be the answer you're looking for. 

Kit homes are pre-cut at a factory, and assembled onsite. These innovative homes offer a unique blend of affordability, customisation, and simplicity. Typically, they are faster to assemble as well - but require buyers to source their own labour to get it done.

Thinking of homebuilding? We’ll talk you through the pros and cons of the kit home, and recommend a few reliable Aussie kit home builders!

What is a Kit Home?

Much like a flatpack, kit homes come pre-cut and packaged, delivered to your site, and ready for your build. They’re much cheaper than other build options, because all you’re paying for is the materials. When it comes to the build labour, you can choose your own builders or contractors, or do it yourself. 

Kit Homes are a great option for those who have experience building, or may be able to get discounted builders elsewhere. 

 

What are the benefits of having a kit home?

To help you decide, let’s explore the benefits and downsides of having a kit home.

1. Tailor-Made for You: Kit homes are great for personalisation, whether it's the floor plan, the materials, or the interior finishes, you have the freedom to design a home that's uniquely yours, all while keeping an eye on the budget.

2. Budget-Friendly Building: Speaking of budget, kit homes are known for their cost-effectiveness. With prices ranging from $25,000 to $300,000+, there's a kit home for every financial plan. Remember, these figures generally only cover the kit itself, so it's wise to account for additional building costs when planning your budget.

3. Simplicity and Speed: The pre-cut and packaged nature of kit homes streamline the building process. This not only makes construction quicker but also reduces the likelihood of errors, ensuring a smooth building experience.
   
   

4. Environmentally Friendly: Kit homes are often more sustainable than traditional builds. The precision of pre-cut materials minimises waste, and the ability to choose eco-friendly materials and designs contributes to a smaller environmental footprint, making kit homes a conscientious choice for the eco-aware homeowner.

What are the downsides of kit homes?

1. Additional Costs: While the initial cost of a kit home is appealing, it's important to remember that this typically covers only the house itself. Additional expenses such as building permits, foundation work, and utility connections can add up, so it's crucial to factor these into your budget.

2. Regulation and Standards: The kit home industry is relatively new and still evolving. This can mean a lack of standardisation and regulation, potentially leading to challenges in quality assurance and consistency. Thorough research and professional advice are key to navigating these potential hurdles.

3. DIY Challenges: Building a kit home requires a certain level of skill and commitment. The DIY aspect, while rewarding, can be daunting and time-consuming. It's essential to realistically assess your abilities and the amount of time you can dedicate to the project before diving in.  

Considering owning a kit home?

Here’s what you need to know.

Building a kit home can be significantly quicker than traditional home construction, but the timeline varies based on several factors:

1. Preparation and permits: Before construction begins, you'll need to prepare the site and obtain the necessary permits. This phase can take several weeks to a few months, depending on local regulations and the complexity of your project.

2. Assembly and construction: The actual assembly of a kit home can be remarkably swift, often taking a few weeks to a few months. This phase is dependent on the size and complexity of the home, the builder's schedule, and the number of people working on the project.

3. Finishing touches: After the main structure is up, additional time is needed for interior and exterior finishing, including electrical, plumbing, and cosmetic work. This phase can vary greatly in duration, depending on the level of detail and customisation wanted.

Tips for prospective kit homeowners

Here are some practical tips that can ensure a smooth and successful home-building journey:

1. Do your research: Embarking on the journey of building a kit home starts with thorough research. Understand the local building codes, zoning laws, and any homeowner association restrictions. Research various kit home providers, comparing their designs, materials, and customer reviews.
   
   

2. Budget wisely: Remember, the cost of a kit home typically covers only the structure itself. Allocate funds for additional expenses such as site preparation, permits, and interior finishes.

3. Customise with caution: While customisation is a significant advantage, it's essential to balance your desires with your budget and practicality. Work closely with your kit home provider to ensure your design choices are feasible and within your financial means.

4. Professional assistance: Even though kit homes are designed for DIY assembly, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Whether it's for construction, electrical work, or plumbing, professional assistance can ensure the quality and safety of your build.

5. Kit home alternatives: While kit homes offer numerous benefits, it's wise to research on all your options, comparing predicted total costs, timelines, and effort levels. Prefabricated homes, modular homes, and traditional-built homes all come with their own pros and cons.

Homeshelf Lists Kit Home Builders

At Homeshelf, we're dedicated to helping you find the right home-building solution. Interested in Kit Homes? Imagine Kit Homes (QLD), Kitome (NSW) and Todd Devine (VIC) are some of our favourites! See browse their design listings on Homeshelf today.  

Publisher Website: www.homeshelf.com.au