Avoid a Budget Blowout!
If you’re planning a custom build, there’s one thing you’ll hear over and over again from people who’ve done it before:
“We went way over budget.”
At FANDR, we’ve seen it too — beautiful dream homes priced off the cuff, plans drawn with no input from a builder, and clients left shocked when quotes come back hundreds of thousands over what they expected.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
We’ve developed a clear, step-by-step process that gives you honest numbers early, keeps the build grounded in reality, and protects you from blowing the budget halfway through.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Vision & Budget Reality Check
We kick things off with a proper chat — where you’re at, what you want, and what you’re working with budget-wise.
This is where we talk openly about what your budget will (and won’t) get you based on real-world costs here in NSW. No promises. Just a reality check before you spend a cent on design.
Step 2: Pre-Design Feasibility
Before you jump into plans, we take a high-level look at your site, goals, potential red flags, and build style.
We’re not guessing — but this isn’t fixed pricing either. It’s about putting guide rails around your project so you’re not walking blind into a design you can’t afford to build.
Step 3: Design Collaboration
Here’s where most budget blowouts start: designing with no builder input.
We bring in the right designer (or work with yours) — but we stay involved from day one to make sure the design is actually buildable and aligned with your budget.
Step 4: Preliminary Costing
Once you’ve got concept plans, we can run early estimates. That might include drawing on NSW build cost data, experience from similar projects, or even tools like ProCalc if plans are ready.
Is it exact? No. But it’s solid enough to guide your next decision with confidence.
Step 5: Design Refinement
If the early costing is too high, no dramas. We work with you and the designer to adjust layout, materials, or scope to bring things back within range — without compromising the vision.
Step 6: Construction Drawings & Selections
Now we get technical. Engineering, energy reports, working drawings, and the start of your selections all come together here. This is what we need to get your job priced properly and approved.
Step 7: Final Contract Price
Once the paperwork and selections are final, we price the job — either as a fixed-price or cost-plus contract, depending on what suits your project. Either way, you’ll get transparency and a clear scope.
Step 8: Approvals & Compliance
We help you get everything approved — whether that’s through Council (DA) or a certifier (CDC). The goal is a green light to get started with no surprises.
Step 9: Build Time
Once we’re on site, we manage the job with tight systems, constant updates, and solid communication. You’ll always know what’s happening and where your budget stands.
Step 10: Handover & Ongoing Support
We walk you through the finished home, but we don’t disappear after handover. We’re here if you have questions, want advice, or just need to know how something works.
The Bottom Line? The Job Will Cost What It Costs — So Let’s Find That Out Early
At the end of the day, we can’t change what a quality home costs to build. But we can help you understand it upfront — and guide you through the process without the stress, shocks, or regrets.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Protect your budget and set your project up for success:
Book Your Free Discovery Call
(15–20 mins) to discuss your vision, budget and next steps.