Builders On The Sunshine Coast

Every week over 1000 people move to the beautiful Sunshine Coast, an hours drive north of Brisbane in Queensland for that sea-change so many of us dream of, so the property market is booming. But how do you find quality Sunshine Coast builders in such a thriving market?

After tourism, building is the biggest growth industry on the Sunshine Coast, which is known for its pristine white sandy beaches and laid-back lifestyle, so building tradespeople from all parts of Australia are flocking to the area to take advantage of the work opportunities.

But such a thriving industry can be a trap for the unwary that are keen to get themselves established in one of the many new developments popping up everywhere. Along with the quality builders who pride themselves on their excellent workmanship and the satisfaction that comes with happy customers are a small number of shonky operators who are out to benefit from such a buoyant market.

So, whether you are a new resident on the Sunshine Coast, or planning to build a home anywhere in Australia, here is a list of key factors to consider when looking for a builder who you can guarantee will build the home of your dreams.

Visit one of the many display villages and developments where Sunshine Coast builders feature their workmanship. Take note of the design elements, layout and any special effects you particularly like and check the prices.
Take a drive around the new areas where homes are being constructed and look for home designs you particularly like and that look like they are well constructed. Take note of the builders name and registration number if you decide you want to contact them at a later stage.
Talk to local architects, draftspeople, real estate agents, valuers and people connected with the building industry about who they would recommend and follow up their advice.
Compile a short-list of possible candidates and then check them out online at the QBSA by doing a licence search. Ensure the company has been around for a number of years and has no blemishes on the report. Where possible, look for builders who have been operating in the area for as long as possible because they will have a thorough knowledge of the soil conditions and building requirements in the Sunshine Coast region.
Ask for recommendations and testimonials from customers of the builders on your short-list before approaching them for a quote. Ask the clients if they were satisfied with the building process, was the home finished on time and on budget, what they like about their home and what they dislike about it and if they would work with that builder again.
Before you approach any Sunshine Coast builders for a quote, make sure you know exactly what you want and whether the builder can provide for your requirements. As an example, if you are looking to build a contemporary home in rendered cement sheeting and glass bricks, does the particular builder construct that style of home? If not, youre wasting your time.
Get a comprehensive quote that includes variables like excavation, clearing costs etc. Make sure an estimated completion time is included as well as an estimated start date. In a booming property market, quality builders may have a 6 to 12 month waiting period before they can commence work.
An important point to consider is that while the building industry cycle is at its peak, quality builders on the Sunshine Coast are going to be charging premium prices, so you may very well be paying as much for your new home as you would if you were to build in the major cities like Sydney or Melbourne.

Once you have found the builder you believe will construct your ideal new home, the next step is to have the contracts drawn up and checked by a solicitor.

As long as you take the time to do your homework, you can rest easy knowing that at some time in the future you can relax in your own little slice of paradise.

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