When Bart decided to build his first home in Kinross, he already had a clear idea of what he wanted. A 4×2 home, designed around the way he wanted to live, with the freedom to make the choices that would make it feel like his.
The challenge was finding a builder who could make that vision work on his block.
After speaking with a few builders, Bart was told that his expectations might need to change, with a 3×2 suggested as a more realistic option.
That wasn’t what Bart wanted.
Then he met Andre.
Starting with a clear vision
Bart had already purchased his block of land when he began meeting with builders. He knew the size of the home he wanted and was looking for someone who could help him make it work.
When he sat down with Andre, the conversation was different from what he’s experienced before.
“Within about two minutes of sitting down with Andre… he said, what do you want? A 4 by 2?”
For Bart, that was the starting point.
“If you can get me a 4 by 2 on this block of land, and it’s something that I’m happy with, I’ll absolutely go with you guys.”
From there, the design process became about finding the right balance between what Bart wanted, what would work on his block and what made sense for his budget.
Listening first, then finding the right solutions
One of the things that stood out most to Bart was the way Andre approached the early stages of the process.
Rather than simply presenting a design, Andre asked questions about Bart’s budget and what he wanted to achieve, then worked through different options with him.
“He asked me what my budget was, he asked me what I wanted to achieve, and he listened.”
That meant making no compromises in some areas to achieve the things that mattered most.
Bart also noticed the level of attention given to his design throughout the back-and-forth process.
“It felt like my order was important and it felt like he was working on it when he wasn’t walking to me.”
For Bart, that communication made a difference. He didn’t feel like this home was simply another project in the pipeline. He felt like the details were being worked through with him
Designing a home that feels like his
Once the overall design came together, Bart’s focus turned to creating a home that suited the way he wanted live.
The open living space was important, with the kitchen positioned at the centre of the home and opening towards the main living area.
For Bart, it created a space where people can gather, whether that’s everyday life at home or hosting friends and family.
Then there was the glass splashback.
“The glass splashback was something that I always wanted.”
And there was no question about the colour.
Blue is Bart’s favourite colour, so incorporating it into the home was an easy decision. Combined with the home’s location in Kinross, it gave the finished space a coastal feel that still makes him happy every time he sees it.
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A build that was smoother than expected
For Bart, communication remained an important part of the experience once construction began. When he raised concerns during different stages of the build, he felt they were addressed quickly and clearly.
“I never felt like I was being ignored or it was too hard to get in touch with someone.”
In fact, one of the biggest surprises for Bart was how straightforward the overall build was. He expected there would be problems along the way. Instead, he found the process much smoother than he has anticipated.
“I didn’t expect it to be as easy and seamless and without problems as it was. I expected more problems. I’m very happy that there were less problems.”
The moment it became home
After all the planning, designing and construction, there was one moment that made everything real.
Handover.
Bart invited his family to walk through the completed home with him. His mum bought champagne flutes, they opened a bottle and celebrated together in an otherwise empty house. It was a simple celebration, but one that marked the beginning of something new.
His favourite part of the finished home is his bedroom and ensuite, which he describes as his own personal retreat.
It’s a space where he can switch off from everything else happening in the house and have a place that feels completely his own.
And that’s something that extends throughout the home.
“I feel more organised. I feel like everything has a space and everything is in its place.”
A home that feels like his
Looking back on the experience, Bart’s biggest takeaway isn’t just the finished home. It’s the fact that the home he had pictured at the beginning was able to become a reality.
He wanted a 4×2. He wanted to make his own choices. He wanted a home he could be proud of.
Today, Bart is already recommending New Choice Homes to people who ask about his home and his building experience.
“I gleefully tell them about New Choice Homes and how they really focused on customer support and communication. And the result was great.”
Bart’s advice for future home builders
Having now been through the process himself, Bart’s advice is practical.
Set realistic expectation. Stick to your budget. Think carefully about where to invest your money, particularly when it comes to structural improvements.
And perhaps most importantly, listen to the people helping you build.
“I would recommend that they listen to their consultants and their team. I think that they can really provide insights into what matches as well and what doesn’t. But stay true to what you want as well.”
For Bart, that’s exactly what his building experience came down to: having a clear idea of the home he wanted, being open to advice along the way, and working with a team that helped him make it happen.
Ready to build a home that’s yours?
Have a clear idea of what you want from your new home? Our team can help you work through the design, budget and building process to find the right solution for your block and your lifestyle.
From your first conversation through to handover, we’re here to help you make better choices and build a home you’ll be proud to call your own.
Start your home building journey with New Choice Homes today.
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