A guide for Owner Builders on the Central Coast
Are you ready to take control of your dream home renovation and turn it into reality? Becoming an owner builder might just be the empowering and cost-effective solution you need! Let's delve into the exciting reasons why becoming an owner builder could be the perfect path for you.
Unlimited Possibilities, Limited Budget:
With an owner builder approach, you have the freedom to explore endless creative options without breaking the bank. By managing the project yourself, you can save a significant amount of money, allowing you to allocate your budget where it matters most. It will have a big impact on your time though.
Handpicked Dream Team:
Tired of relying on others to bring your vision to life? As an owner builder, you get to handpick each and every tradesperson, ensuring that you have a dream team that shares your passion for perfection. With a little research, you can find the best tradespeople and craftsmen, resulting in a home renovation that exceeds your expectations. Builders do have an advantage in that they are repeat customers and may get priority, this is one of the ways engaging a builder can be advantageous.
Time Waits for No Builder:
Don't let time constraints hold you back! If you're eager to start your project right away and can't find a builder who fits your timeframe, becoming an owner builder is the ultimate solution. Take charge of your schedule and get the ball rolling without delay. This is the most often reason our clients become owner builders, they want to get going and cannot find a builder that fits in with their time frame.
Unbeatable Margins, Boundless Savings:
Save big on your renovation by cutting out the builder's margin on materials. Builders often charge a 10-20% markup, which can add up quickly.
Total Control, Total Satisfaction:
Your home is your sanctuary, and you deserve perfection. As an owner builder, you retain complete control over every aspect of the renovation, ensuring that every detail is just the way you envision it. Achieve the satisfaction of seeing your dream home come to life, guided by your expert eye.
Now, you might be thinking, "That sounds fantastic, but what if I prefer a hassle-free option?" Hiring a builder can indeed be a wise choice for some, and here's why:
Time is Money, Builder Saves Both:
If you have a bit more budget to spare and want a stress-free experience, hiring a professional builder might be the best decision. Let them take care of the logistics, coordination, and deadlines, allowing you to focus on other important aspects of your life.
The Builder's Network Advantage:
Builders have a long-standing relationship with various trades, making them repeat customers and earning them better service and priority. Their connections can streamline the project and ensure smoother execution.
Quality Assurance, Expertise Guaranteed:
Builders are well-versed in maintaining high-quality standards and have the expertise to identify and rectify issues immediately. With their experience, your project will be in safe and capable hands.
If you've made up your mind to become an owner builder, here's what you need to know:
Projects under $10,000 don't require an owner builder permit, giving you the freedom for smaller-scale endeavors.
For projects between $10,000 and $20,000, complete an owner builder course and apply for a permit to embark on a more ambitious renovation journey. How to apply can be found on the service nsw website here.
What to do after you have completed the owner builders course:
You've done the course, you are ready to apply you go to apply and service NSW asks for the Complying Development Number or Construction Certificate Number. You go back and try and apply for either a Complying Development Approval, it won't let you submit until you have an owner's builders permit though. What do you do? You are stuck. Its a flaw in the system.
The only way to resolve it is to call Central Coast Council or your certifier and get their help. This is an obvious flaw in the system I really wish they would resolve.
If you are using Central Coast Council as your certifier, here are their details:
Search by Name for Central Coast Council:
ABN 73149644003
Company Name: Central Coast Council
Trading Name: Central Coast Council
email: daonline@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
