The Masterbuilt Blog

How to Compare Builder Quotes Without Guessing What’s Missing

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 13:14:03 +1100

When homeowners begin comparing builder quotes, the natural instinct is to focus on the final number. If one quote is significantly lower than another, it can appear like an obvious choice. However, experienced homeowners quickly discover that builder quotes are rarely as simple as they appear.

At Masterbuilt Homes, we believe the best value isn’t found in the lowest number; it’s found in the greatest clarity. Two quotes can look identical on the surface while being fundamentally different underneath. Understanding what sits behind a quote is far more important than simply comparing the bottom line.

The Reality of "Invisible" Assumptions

Most builder quotes are presented in a way that feels clear. They include a price, a list of inclusions, and sometimes allowances for certain selections. In reality, each builder may be making vastly different assumptions about your specific design and site conditions.

For example, one builder might assume "standard" site costs, while another has actually reviewed your soil test and priced the specific slab requirements needed for your block. These assumptions are rarely obvious at the start.

They only become visible later, when construction begins and the real scope of work is revealed. This is when many homeowners feel the project budget has spiraled out of control. Clear documentation protects you by ensuring everyone is working from the same facts.

The Role of Allowances

Allowances are one of the most common areas where quotes become difficult to compare. An allowance is simply a placeholder amount for items that have not been fully selected at the time the quote is prepared—think tapware, flooring, or appliances.

The challenge is that two builders may include very different allowance amounts for the same item. One builder may allow a modest amount for standard finishes, while another—anticipating your desire for quality—may allow for a premium product.

On paper, the lower allowance makes the quote look more competitive. However, once you make your real selections, that "cheap" quote can quickly become more expensive than the "higher" one. This is why allowances must be reviewed with a critical eye.

The "No-Guesswork" Comparison

• Site Detail: What specific site conditions were used to calculate the footings?
• Allowance Limits: Do these amounts reflect the actual fixtures and finishes I want?
• Variation Management: How are changes documented and priced once the build starts?

Why Process Matters More Than Price

Building a home is likely the most significant investment you will ever make. While price is naturally an important factor, it rarely tells the full story. A clear process, detailed documentation, and transparent communication are what actually protect your budget.

Choosing a builder based on the highest level of clarity—rather than the lowest number—reduces uncertainty and provides confidence that the project will progress smoothly. When you understand exactly what you are paying for, you can move forward with total peace of mind.

Ready to Build with Confidence?

Book a consultation with our experts to walk through your plans and ensure you have total clarity on your project.

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Building a Flood-Resilient Home: What You Need to Know

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:18:55 +1100

The Reality of Building in Flood-Aware Regions

For many homeowners in the Wide Bay region, understanding flood resilience is a top priority. While there is no specific flood warranty provided by the builder, the protection of your investment is built directly into the rigorous design and approval process.

At Masterbuilt Homes, we ensure that every project complies strictly with the relevant council flood zoning and planning requirements, providing a structural foundation based on regional safety standards.

Precision Through Regulation

As part of our comprehensive design and approval phase, the finished floor level of your home is not a guess—it is a calculation. This level is determined by expert engineering and local council regulations specifically designed for the Bundaberg and Bargara areas.

These requirements are in place to ensure that every new home is constructed above the designated flood level for the area, utilizing data to mitigate risks before a single brick is laid.

Built for Confidence

Because your home is engineered to sit above the designated flood level for your specific block, you can have total confidence in the integrity of your build.

Every Masterbuilt home is designed and constructed in accordance with all applicable flood planning requirements. This alignment with regional safety standards is the most effective way to help protect against flooding risks in our unique coastal environment.

A Standard of Protection

• Council Compliance: Strict adherence to local zoning laws.
• Engineered Elevation: Floor levels set by data-driven safety requirements.
• Structural Confidence: Designs optimized for the Wide Bay region’s geography.

Expert Guidance

Navigating the complexities of regional flood planning can be difficult. By choosing a builder who understands local engineering and council standards, you ensure your new home meets the highest requirements for safety and longevity.

Discuss Your Site Requirements

Book a consultation with our experts to navigate local zoning and protect your investment.

Book Free Consultation

The Hidden Gaps in Builder Quotes That Cause Cost Surprises

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:02:22 +1100

If you have built before, you probably assume you know what to look for in a builder’s quote. You understand budgets, allowances, and the basics of construction.

Yet many experienced homeowners still encounter cost surprises they never saw coming.

The reason is rarely carelessness. Many builder quotes appear detailed on the surface while quietly leaving critical gaps underneath. Those gaps usually only reveal themselves once construction begins, when options are limited and costs feel unavoidable.

Understanding where these gaps exist is one of the most important steps you can take to protect both your budget and your peace of mind.

Why Builder Quotes Can Feel Clear But Still Be Incomplete

Most quotes are designed to feel reassuring. They list room counts, inclusions, and a final price that appears decisive. For homeowners who value certainty, this creates early confidence.

The issue is that many quotes summarise what is easy to present — not what actually determines the final cost.

Items such as:

Site conditions
Documentation detail
Design assumptions
Allowances and selections

often sit in grey areas. They may be mentioned, but not fully defined. That ambiguity is where cost surprises begin.

Allowances That Look Reasonable But Aren’t Fully Defined

Allowances are one of the most common reasons build costs change.

On paper, they seem simple: a budget is allocated for fixtures, finishes, or site works. The problem is not allowances themselves, but how loosely they are sometimes applied.

If allowances are based on minimal specifications or outdated assumptions, they quickly fall short once real selections are made. The difference then becomes a variation, even when homeowners choose perfectly reasonable options.

The gap is often alignment — the allowance does not match the actual standard of home being built. Clear expectations upfront prevent uncomfortable conversations later.

Design Assumptions That Were Never Properly Resolved

Another hidden risk sits between design intent and documentation.

When design decisions are rushed during quoting, builders must make assumptions about:

Structural requirements
Roof complexity
Window sizing
Construction methods

As drawings become more detailed, assumptions are replaced with real requirements — and costs change.

A well-structured process resolves decisions before pricing begins.

Site Costs Treated as Estimates Instead of Commitments

Site costs are one of the biggest sources of unexpected variations.

Earthworks, drainage, retaining, and soil conditions are often estimated early. Without proper investigation, these remain placeholders rather than confirmed costs.

Once construction starts and realities are uncovered, estimates become actual expenses. What feels like a sudden increase is often simply the first time the real scope was understood.

Transparency about what is confirmed versus assumed is essential to avoiding this scenario.

Contract Language That Leaves Room for Interpretation

Even clear quotes can lose certainty once translated into contract form.

Vague inclusions, broad exclusions, or unclear wording create space for differing expectations. These differences usually surface mid-build when changes feel disruptive and stressful.

A strong contract does more than list inclusions. It explains:

How variations occur
Why they may arise
How decisions affect cost and timeline

Confidence comes from understanding the process — not just signing paperwork.

Why Cost Surprises Create Stress, Not Just Expense

Unexpected costs rarely affect finances alone. They impact trust, communication, and the overall building experience.

When homeowners are forced into reactive decisions, the process feels rushed and uncertain. Delays increase. Confidence drops.

For most clients, it is the uncertainty, not the money, that creates the greatest stress.

How a Clear Building Process Reduces Risk

The safest way to avoid hidden gaps is not finding the cheapest quote, but working with a builder who prioritises clarity from the beginning.

A structured process should:

Finalise design decisions early
Investigate site conditions properly
Define realistic allowances
Explain contracts in plain language

This approach may take slightly longer upfront, but it dramatically reduces surprises during construction. When you understand how a price is built, confidence replaces anxiety.

Choosing Clarity Over Comfort

It is natural to gravitate toward quotes that feel simple and final. But true clarity rarely comes from simplification. It comes from transparency, explanation, and open communication.

If you are comparing builders, ask:

How was this quote prepared?
What assumptions were made?
What decisions are still unresolved?

A builder who can clearly answer these questions is showing you how they manage risk — not just cost.

Ready for Cost Confidence Before You Build?

The best way to avoid surprises is to review your plans with an experienced team before construction begins.

During a consultation, we walk through:

What is truly included in your quote
Where hidden risks may exist
How decisions today affect your final cost
A clear process from design through completion

Book a consultation with MasterBuilt Homes today and gain clarity before committing to your build.

Book Your Consultation

LIGHTBULB MOMENT!

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 12:20:00 +1000

It is always a bright idea to consider how the temperature of your light bulbs will impact the ambience and style of your home.

Check out this quick guide on how these different shades will influence your homes mood:

Warm White (2700K-3000K)
- Creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere
- Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas
- Enhances warm-toned walls (beiges, browns) and wood floors
- Adds a soft, relaxing glow perfect for unwinding

Daylight (5000K-6500K)
- Provides a bright, energizing light, mimicking natural daylight
- Best for kitchens, bathrooms, and workspaces
- Highlights cool-toned walls (blues, whites) and floors
- Improves focus and task visibility

Neutral White (3500K-4100K)
- Balanced light, offering clarity and comfort
- Works well in hallways, offices, and living spaces
- Complements both warm and cool-toned walls and floors
- Great for everyday living with a clean, neutral feel

Choose wisely to set the right mood for every room!

Costly Mistakes

Fri, 05 May 2023 15:29:06 +1000

Often people will sign a preliminary agreement with a builder based on their first discussion, only to find out that the price that was given was a best-case scenario. Only after do you find out your block isn’t a best-case scenario and now you are losing money before you start.

Builder’s standard inclusions will basically show you the starting point for a builder, so always, look at these before signing anything. Most of the project builders and franchises standard allowance for soil type “S” Class. This is a best-case scenario, and is where most people get caught out. The small print will say subject to soil test and if you did not know about it before this it can cost you a few extra thousand to the build cost.

Another area is your driveway, most will start with a broom finish plain concrete, but nearly all our estates require exposed aggregate driveways, so another extra.

There are more but I will leave them for another day, but I will leave you with one more important question ask. “Is my garage door C2 rated?” Given that we live in a Cyclonic Rated Region you would think that this should be the standard, well think again. Standard garages are going in and guess what, they are a lot cheaper than a C1 or C2 rated door, until the wind blows them in.

It doesn’t cost you a cent to ask the question, but it can save you a lot of dollars when you know.

Water proofing, what is changing? Did you know?

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 12:24:32 +1100

Building codes are amended and updated from time to time. The majority of the time, you may not even notice the changes bought in. But we are now looking at changes coming into effect this year that will be noticeable.

Firstly, we are faced with a raft of changes to the Water Proofing Code, this is coming into effect 1^st of May. Secondly, we have the new Standard of Livable Housing, which we will cover in an upcoming blog.

The changes to the Waterproofing code are numerous. Most you may never notice or even care for. But there will be some you will notice and need to be mindful within the design process.

We feel people will be opting for a closed in shower in both bathrooms once again. Why would be wanting to go back to cleaning shower screens and tracks/sill, sadly it is cost.

If you like the idea of a walk-in shower you need to keep reading.

To have a walk-in shower, you will now need to fall all floor areas into a waste. This means the whole bathroom needs to be recessed for the floor to have the required fall. This comes with additional charges for the concreter for the recess, the water proofer will need to waterproof this area and the extra costs for the tiller to achieve the bed the tiles are laid on and the additional work needed for the cuts and laying to get the fall to the wastes. It also means the tiles will go in before the vanities, which will be more added costs/work for the cabinet maker.

As you can see, this is an in-depth change. To avoid this, having a door on the shower avoids the major changes. The door itself will be more cost-effective than the above. But that does come with another ongoing chore to take care of.

Cyclonic vs Non-Cyclonic

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 15:36:18 +1100

With the shift of more people moving into our region from southern parts of Australia and the Strip, we thought it might be an idea to help people understand what is required to do for a home in a Cyclonic region.

Woodgate is the rough cut off of cyclonic and non-cyclonic region and approx. 50km inland off of the coast is where the line stops. This puts our beautiful region within the Cyclonic area of C1 and greater.

So, what are we trying to avoid happening? The wind puts more pressure on the building itself, and the other major item to note, the cyclone lifting your roof off.

How do we avoid this? The roof iron is screwed off with a lot more screws. The spaces of the battens that hold the roof to the trusses are increased. From there our trusses are beefed up, frames are also. Added to this is an increase amount of bracing to stop the wall falling over. Which has an increased amount of concrete and steel in the slab. That covers just your uplift, briefly I must add.

What about the increases wind pressure on your walls, doors, and windows?

As much as we love to have more glass in our homes to capture views, light or breezes. This needs to be stronger and sometimes sizes, locations and types are affected due to this. You may have noticed there is more aluminum in the windows here.

Panel lift doors are another item that you will see a major difference between the two different regions. The cyclonic rated doors have a lot more steel, the tracks are a lot larger and fixing these to the walls is increase dramatically. Not a few screws along the tracks, but dozens into a specially designed part of the frame.

Types of cladding choices are reduced also. These products are generally fine in most cases, but on the coast itself we do need to be mindful. This is most due to the driving rain getting into the joints of the cladding and into your home. No one wants added water within their frames or living spaces.

This is just a general items to list, mostly you won’t even see what’s happening between the walls and up in the roof. But you will see a beefed up Panel lift and more alumni in your windows and doors.

I hope this gives you a brief overview of the differences between the regions.

Timing, the million-dollar question

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 14:42:28 +1100

Timing, the million-dollar question. Is now the right time? Should I wait to build? Will costs improve if I hold off? These are all questions that are easy to answer in hindsight but require a crystal ball to be able to answer with 100% certainty today. As I don’t have a crystal ball, to be able to answer today, lets focus on the past. Looking back at the cost to build it becomes very clear, very quickly.

There is no better time to start than now! You see, the longer you take to start the more it can end up costing you. Ask anyone who waited to see what covid did to the cost of building, not many of them will tell you they were glad they waited, prices sky rocketed.

So if you are thinking of building, start now, get your finances sorted and go, it will be the biggest discount you can give yourself ever.

Building with dreams in mind.

Lewis

Kleidon Masterbuilt Homes

Ocean Links Bargara (1)

Mon, 12 Mar 2018 16:24:35 +1100

Ocean Links Bargara is now under construction and awaiting your new dream home!

Although many blocks are now sold and beautiful new homes are beginning construction, there is still an array of fantastic blocks available. Ocean Links Bargara is SELLING NOW and SELLING FAST!

Surrounded by the pristine fairways of the Bargara Golf Course — and positioned directly opposite Bargara Central Shopping Centre — Ocean Links Bargara is an exciting new residential development, offering a relaxed coastal lifestyle, surrounded by natural beauty and modern convenience. Nestled only 1km back from beautiful beachside Bargara, this unique residential development presents 28 breathtaking home sites in a safe and friendly neighbourhood community.

All easement free allotments, some with direct golf course access with sensational views.

Partnering with Kleidon Masterbuilt Homes, a multi-award winning, local builder, the Ocean Links Bargara development will be like no other in the region, with only the highest quality homes being built- meaning your investment is protected and surrounded by a like-minded community.

The options are endless with House & Land packages designed to suit all styles and interests. We have an array of sizes, storeys, and façade options available, with a design to suit everyone. If you wish to alter one of our existing plans, our in-house draftsman can work with you to turn your dream in to a reality.

With a prime location in a laid-back, coastal town, Ocean Links Bargara oozes lifestyle appeal and blocks will not last long.

Are you wanting to be a part of Ocean Links Bargara without the worry of building your own home? 1 Greenview Drive is a spectacular home built to the highest quality by Kleidon Masterbuilt Homes, and is ready for its new owner, right now. Contact Melissa on 0408 290 561 to arrange your viewing of this spectacular property.

Building in Bargara

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 16:59:43 +1100

Are you looking for a sea change or just a lively and ever-thriving area to build your new home in?

Bargara is a coastal town located 15kms from Bundaberg and at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, meaning beautiful beaches are a given!

Bargara gives the ultimate laid-back, beachside lifestyle, whilst still being lively and functional.

Fully equipped with an abundance of amazing eateries, spectacular golf courses, hotels, caravan parks, a variety of supermarkets and speciality stores, schools, public transport and of course easy access to beaches, all of which is allowing the Bargara region to thrive.

Bargara is popular with tourists all year round due to its constant warm weather, meaning the area is always buzzing with action.

The area isn’t just attractive to one demographic; families, retirees and First Home Owners’ are all flocking to check out what Bargara has to offer- and they definitely aren’t leaving disappointed!

It is being considered ‘the place to be’, not only just in the Bundaberg region, but Queensland wide, with people from all over Australia choosing to sell up and move to Bargara for the modern coastal lifestyle on offer, and most importantly, the affordability of house prices compared to other Australian regions, while not compromising on quality of lifestyle or living.

With a plethora of land available in numerous housing estates widely spread around Bargara now available, the options are nearly endless as to where you can build a new home.

Kleidon Masterbuilt Homes currently have a Display Home in Bargara Beach Estate, located in the south of Bargara, as well as a brand-new development Ocean Links Estate on the corner of Bargara Road and Davidson Street; a prime location if you are looking for direct access to the golf course, shops and beaches.

Contact our award-winning Building Consultants today to discuss the options of building your next home in the Bargara region, or click here to find out more information about Ocean Links Bargara.

Choosing flooring for your home

Wed, 13 Dec 2017 11:50:48 +1100

With so many options on the market in flooring at the moment, it can be hard to choose which material will best suit your new home.

The best idea is to do your research and visit a professional flooring specialist to seek advice. Speaking to a professional will give you all the information you need to make an informed decision. Every product has its pros and cons, here’s a few to help you move in the right direction when choosing the flooring for your new home.

Tiles

Pros:

Durable
Affordable
Stylish
Readily available/wide variety
Plenty of design options
Low maintenance
Stain resistant
Easily replaced if damaged (make sure you keep a few spares when laying the tiles!)

Cons:

Their hard surface can be destructive, and uncomfortable to stand/sit on for long durations
Can get cold in winter

Vinyl Flooring

Pros:

Affordable
Stylish
Durable
Comfortable underfoot
Easy to install
Available in a wide variety of colours and styles

Cons:

Can discolour with age
Difficult to repair
Preparing sub floor for installation can be difficult
Difficult to remove once installed

Hardwood Flooring

Pros:

Adds value to your property
Easy to clean
Look beautiful
Many styles and colouring available

Cons:

Expensive
Need refinishing occasionally
Can be noisy to walk on
Less pet-friendly – animals can scratch the wooden floors, and their paws don’t grip to the surface as well as other flooring materials

When deciding the most suitable flooring option for your new home, it’s best to weigh up your options and decide what will best suit your family’s, and your new home’s needs.

Our Building Consultants can point you in the right direction when building your new home with Kleidon Masterbuilt Homes, making the selection process easier and stress free.

Installing a pool

Mon, 20 Nov 2017 15:09:58 +1100

Summer is on its way and many people will be thinking about installing a pool to keep cool and enjoy a relaxing break over the holiday season. Here’s some handy hints to know before having a pool installed.

Land availability

The first, and one of the most important aspects of having a pool installed is ensuring that you have the land space to actually fit one. The size and layout of available land will then allow you to decide what size and shape pool you can install.

Even though there may be available land, what’s underneath the surface may still prevent you from digging. It is important to find out if there are pipes or anything underground where you are wanting to install your pool.

Laws & Regluations

Another very important aspect of constructing a new pool is seeking local council approval. Engaging a professional pool company is the easiest way to ensure that your pool is completed to legal standards. Do some research in your local area on businesses that offer pool construction services and just like choosing a builder, ensure they are fully licenced to do the work.

If you are building a new home, you can also engage your builder to include the pool in your building contract, this way, you move in with a beautiful new pool prepared for you!

There are also strict fencing laws in place with pools, it is important to be educated and up to date with what is required before installing pool fencing. These laws are put in place to prevent children entering the pool area unattended.

Important things to ask your pool builder

Once you’ve chosen your pool builder, there are some important questions you need to ask before signing a contract.

As mentioned above, thoroughly check your pool builder’s credentials and reputation before engaging a contract with them. It is also important to ensure that you are provided with a detailed quote that you understand in full, so that you know exactly what is included in your price and will not be surprised with any unexpected or hidden costs. Things to look out for include insurance on the work site, and whether landscaping or any extras are included.

Another important piece of information to obtain from your pool builder is the warranties on all components of the pool. It is best to be well aware of the length of the warranties your pool holds, just in case something unexpected happens.

Having a pool can be a great asset over the summer months, or even most of the year with Queensland’s climate, and can also add value to your property. Always be sure to keep your pool fence and gate secured to ensure the safety of children.

Kleidon Masterbuilt Homes are more than happy to assist you with arranging your new pool.

Vue 190

Thu, 09 Nov 2017 16:39:25 +1100

Make the most of a small block with the Vue 190.

With impressive façade options and a functional floorplan, the Vue 190 is the ultimate modern home.

Remarkable features that are generally only found in larger homes, including four double-sized bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, and the master suite including an Ensuite and spacious walk-in-robe.

The Vue 190 has room for the whole family, whilst still being space conscious and it suitable for any location.

The appealing open-plan living/dining/kitchen area allows the home to have a spacious feel. The home chef will be in heaven, with a designer kitchen including an island bench and plenty of workspace.

Ample storage space is set throughout the home, with linen cupboards and wardrobes, as well as a double garage.

Enjoy hosting family and friends on the spacious alfresco area that flows out from the open plan living/dining area, creating a perfect entertainment space.

An impressive, yet affordable floorplan for everyone from the First Home Owner to the retiree.

To make the Vue 190 suit your needs, speak to our in-house draftsman to create the home of your dreams.

Building for Investment

Thu, 19 Oct 2017 14:38:55 +1100

Property investment is a popular way of investing, because it generally gives a great return (from tenants and the taxman), if it’s done right.

A lot of people shy away from building a brand new home for investment purposes, opting to buy established homes because they think it will be an easier process- which isn’t necessarily true.

It doesn’t have to be difficult

Building a new home for investment purposes doesn’t have to be a difficult or stressful process. Most building companies offer House & Land Packages, which takes away a lot of stress away from you having to make too many decisions. You just need to choose the block of land you would like to build on, and a plan, and if you want to, colours and designs etc, otherwise your builder will generally do the rest.

You can arrange for the builder to do a ‘full turn key’ package for you, where the fencing and landscaping is completed in the contract also, leaving no stress for you before your tenants move in.

Build for the market & attract more desirable tenants

Building a brand new home may be a slightly longer process than buying existing, however the aftermath can save you a lot of stress in the long run. Building brand new eliminates a lot of maintenance in the first few years, with products still being under warranty, and no wear-and-tear, making the home more appealing to more desirable tenants- every property investors goal.

Doing your research and finding out what features the demographic in the area you plan to build in is most likely looking for in a rental property will make it easier for you to decide what inclusions you need in an investment home. For example, most modern homes include an ensuite, walk-in-robe, open plan living/dining area and an entertainment area. Researching before you sign a building contract is the most beneficial thing you can do in this process, you don’t want to build a home that doesn’t suit the demographic, therefore making it difficult for you to rent.

Save on Stamp Duty

Building a brand new home means you only have to pay stamp duty on the land component of the build, the home itself is stamp duty exempt, another advantage of building over purchasing existing- you will be saving thousands of dollars!

Chose the right builder

It’s extremely important to choose a builder that is going to stick to your budget when building your investment home. You should carefully read the building specifications and contract before signing anything to ensure that everything you want in the home is included in the price, and not going to be a hidden extra during the build, causing your budget to blow, which can in turn, make your investment not as worthy.

If you are thinking of investing in property, speak to our experienced, award-winning Building Consultants who can assist you in every aspect of building your new home.

Beachside 245

Thu, 05 Oct 2017 13:51:48 +1100

Accommodate the needs of your family with the impressive and affordable Beachside 245.

The intelligent floorplan allows you to come together as a family in the spacious communal areas, or retreat to the double-sized built-in bedrooms for some peace and quiet.

The master suite is situated in the rear of the home, for a retreat-style feel. The spacious and modern Ensuite adds comfort to the bedroom, with the walk-in-robe allowing plenty of storage space.

The remaining bedrooms, situated at the front of the home, are fitted with built-in wardrobes and carpet, with space to fit a queen bed. The bedrooms are serviced by the main bathroom, which is equipped with a bathtub, shower and separate water closet.

Indoor entertainment is paramount in the Beachside 245, with a dedicated media room and study nook situated off the open plan living/dining area.

The designer kitchen is a home chef’s dream come true, with a walk-in-pantry, ample bench space and an appliance cupboard, overlooking the indoor and outdoor living areas.

Entertain guests on the spacious alfresco area, which flows seamlessly through from the living area.

Although named the Beachside 245, this plan is suitable for any location, its practicality and functionality allows it to be the perfectly adaptable family home. It is easily altered to suit your family’s needs, contact us today to turn the Beachside 245 in to your dream home.

Making an Energy Efficient home

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 09:58:54 +1000

Making your new home energy efficient can save you money and improve its performance. There are numerous ways you can get a 10-star rating for energy efficiency when you build your home, but the trick is knowing exactly what to look for and selections to make to get the highest rating possible. Here’s just a few tips to getting that top energy efficiency rating.

Insulation

The best way to keep your home at a comfortable temperature all year round is insulation in the ceiling and walls. This is generally a standard feature in new homes now, and there is an obvious difference in the feel of the home when insulation is missing. Installing insulation will help reduce your power bill as well, because it eliminates the need to use heating and cooling systems at a high rate. Not only does insulation keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, it can also create a sound barrier, making it more comfortable for everyone.

Colours

In the warm Queensland climate, it is better to choose lighter colours for the exterior of your home and roof, as they reflect heat and help to keep your home cooler. Darker colours tend to attract heat, therefore making generally making your home warmer- a benefit if you live in cooler climates. Making decisions such as choosing lighter colours for the exterior of your home all add up to creating a more energy efficient, cost-saving home.

Lights

Lights account for around 10-12% of electricity usage in homes. You can reduce the amount of energy you use on lighting by up to 50% just by making smarter choices. When planning your new home, it can be beneficial to try and include as much natural lighting as possible. By increasing natural lighting, you may be able to decrease the number of light fittings in your home, all of which account to your energy efficiency rating. For the lights you do install, LED lights are not only one of the most energy efficient lights you can use in your home, they are also stylish and readily available.

Solar

Why not put the sun to good use and have it run your electricity? Not only is this energy efficient, it will save you quite an amount of money in the long run if they are installed to suit your households needs. Solar panels are generally low maintenance and will increase the value of your home. Seeking advice from a professional on the best solar power system and layout for your home is the most beneficial option before installation.

Kleidon Masterbuilt Homes can work with you to make your new home as energy efficiency as possible- our current Display Home at 10 She Oak Boulevard, Bargara is a 10-star Energy Efficiency rating! These ideas are just a few of the options you have to making an efficient home- talk to us today about your options.

Buying or Building your First Home

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 09:17:47 +1000

Buying or building your first home is an exciting time for anybody.

Most people work extremely hard to reach this milestone and it can be beneficial for you in the long run if you have professional advice about what investment is best for you.

Until 30^th December 2017, the Queensland Government is granting eligible First Home Buyers $20,000 to support them in to their first new home sooner, or to help build or buy something a little more than expected.

One fantastic benefit of the QLD First Home Owners' Grant is the support it gives to the building and construction industry. To receive the grant, you must be building a brand new home or buying a new home that has not yet been lived in. This helps create and keep jobs in the construction industry all over Australia.

WORK WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST

Building your first home can be a daunting experience. With so many choices, it’s important to do your research on building a new home before you sign any contracts.

Finding a trustworthy builder that you feel comfortable with and confident that they won’t take advantage of the fact you are building your first home, is one of the most important parts of the process. Reading testimonials from previous clients will give you a good idea on the integrity of the company.

Do your own research, the cheapest quote isn’t necessarily the best option, it’s important to look at the quality you’ll receive too.

SPEND YOUR MONEY WISELY

Ensuring you keep to budget can be important when building or buying your first home. Creating a workable and realistic budget is a great (and necessary) starting point. Having a budget will allow you to know where to start looking for your new property.

Making a realistic budget and sticking to it can be advantageous for your financial position in the long run, and also, the bigger your deposit, the better!

Approaching a mortgage broker can be beneficial when looking for a home loan, especially your first. The right broker can assist you in finding the loan that is right for you, over numerous different financial institutions, even ones you may not have thought of. They can work with you to find a package and interest rate that best suits your situation, taking all of the hard work out of it for you.

TAKE A LOAD OFF

Although building your first home can sometimes be an intimidating and stressful time, it doesn’t always have to be.

Engaging a builder that can offer house and land packages can be very useful to your process. You can simply choose a package the developer has on offer, make your colour choices and then watch your new home be built, with minimal stress.

The house and land package process can be valuable to First Home Buyers, especially if they are unsure of exactly what they are looking for in a house plan.

Whether you plan on your first home being your forever home or a temporary option, it is important to consider every aspect of your decision before jumping in to a commitment.

Check out our wide range of House and Land packages available on our website and contact us today to build your new home.

Aura 270

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 10:24:30 +1000

This sophisticated family haven offers immense lifestyle appeal, showcasing the intelligent design that captures the feel of a modern home.

The perfect home for a beach or bush location, the Aura 270 has everything required for a functional home.

The internal atrium is cleverly designed to allow an abundance of natural light in to the home and adds a spectacular feature to the main living area.

The spacious open plan living and dining area flows through to the alfresco area, bringing the outdoors in- making entertaining guests easy and comfortable.

The home chef will be in paradise in this kitchen, with plenty of bench space provided by the island bench, an appliance cupboard to keep the benches looking neat and tidy, and a spacious walk-in-pantry.

The retreat-style master suite boasts a uniquely designed, luxurious ensuite with a double vanity, separate toilet and large shower. A linen cupboard has been cleverly added to the corner of the ensuite for extra storage. A spacious walk-in-robe ensures you will never be short of wardrobe space.

The remaining three queen-sized bedrooms are fitted with built-in wardrobes. With a fully-equipped main bathroom servicing these bedrooms, the whole family will be comfortable in the Aura 270.

Indoor entertainment is covered with a media room and dedicated study or home office.

A three car garage ensure a plethora of storage, and plenty of off street parking.

This home has an elegant precedent from the point of entry and will impress you both inside and out, with a number of eye-catching facades available.

Bargara Display Home Now Open

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 12:41:20 +1000

Brett and Dianne Kleidon are proud to present their new display home “AURA”, situated at 10 She Oak Boulevard, Bargara Beach Estate.

The new home Dianne and Brett have designed has an exciting and unique floor plan, featuring a central courtyard, soaring ceilings and attractive flow through design.

Dianne’s interior and exterior expertise shows through again, she has created another stunning home with new and stylish tiled feature walls internal and external.

Exquisite colours and new products have blended together forming the new masterpiece. An eye-catching waterfall ended island kitchen bench with complimentary black sink and taps, will make any cook proud to be in the kitchen.

Our experienced Building Consultants will be at the Display Home to assist you all the way in building or buying your brand new home. We have on display our extensive range of plans, so whether it be your design ideas or ours, our professional Bundaberg teams attention to detail, honesty, integrity and passion for building, is evident with our top quality service from start to finish.

Kleidon Masterbuilt Homes are your local home builder here to help you create any house of any size or design. From the early stages through to completion and whether you are building your first home, tenth home, unit complex or commercial building.

Melissa and Scott can also assist you with all the available blocks of land in the Bundaberg and Bargara areas.

Come along and experience for yourselves, the exciting, innovative, stylish new design and amazing quality, that allows us to be multi-award winning builders in the Bundaberg region for the past 16 years.

OPEN 7 DAYS

10AM-4PM

Handy hints to building your first home

Fri, 05 May 2017 10:27:13 +1000

Buying or building your first home is an exciting time for anybody.

Most people work extremely hard to reach this milestone and it can be beneficial for you in the long run if you have professional advice about what investment is best for you.

Until 30^th June 2017, the Queensland Government is granting eligible First Home Buyers $20,000 to support them in to their first new home sooner, or to help build or buy something a little more than expected.

One fantastic benefit of the QLD First Home Owners’ Grant is the support it gives to the building and construction industry. To receive the grant, you must be building a brand new home or buying a new home that has not yet been lived in. This helps create and keep jobs in the construction industry all over Australia.

WORK WITH SOMEONE YOU TRUST

Building your first home can be a daunting experience. With so many choices, it’s important to do your research on building a new home before you sign any contracts.

Do your own research, the cheapest quote isn’t necessarily the best option, it’s important to look at the quality you’ll receive too.

SPEND YOUR MONEY WISELY

Making a realistic budget and sticking to it can be advantageous for your financial position in the long run, and also, the bigger your deposit, the better!

TAKE A LOAD OFF

Although building your first home can sometimes be an intimidating and stressful time, it doesn’t always have to be.

The house and land package process can be valuable to First Home Buyers, especially if they are unsure of exactly what they are looking for in a house plan.

Whether you plan on your first home being your forever home or a temporary option, it is important to consider every aspect of your decision before jumping in to a commitment.

Check out our wide range of House and Land packages available on our website and contact us today to build your new home.

5 essential tips to choosing a quality builder

Wed, 29 Mar 2017 17:12:03 +1100

Choosing a builder to construct your brand new home is a decision that should not be taken lightly.

You are entrusting someone with your dream (and money), to build you a quality, stable home that will last you well into the future. This is definitely up there with one of the biggest financial decisions you will make and it can be extremely daunting trying to choose a company to build with, especially if the scope of choice is wide. Here are some handy hints to keep in mind when deciding on a builder to engage.

Stability

One of the most important things to think about and research is the stability of the building company you plan to engage to build your new home. Checking in to the financial stability of the company and their qualifications is important to check before signing a contract to build your new home.

Trust

Sometimes building your new home just comes down to who you feel most comfortable with. You need to be able to trust the company building your dream, that they understand your vision and are willing to work with you on constructing your new home.

Qualifications

Before even speaking to a builder, it is a great idea to check out the builder’s licencing. You can check Queensland builder’s licences on the QBCC website, just by typing in their name. This will show you if the builder is qualified to build your new home, whether they have any disciplinary action taken against them and the financial records for the company over their lifespan.

Ensuring your builder is qualified is one of the most important aspects of the decision process, you don’t want to leave it to chance.

Quality over Quantity

Of course, the price of your new home is important, but it’s also important to ensure that your investment is going to last. Checking out the quality of work your builder can provide is one of the most important things when building a new home. Start by asking if they have a display home or spec home you can view for comparison.

If you are speaking with two different builders and one is $5,000 less than the other, but their quality is significantly lesser, that can generally be a good indication that perhaps paying the extra $5,000 may be worth it in the long run, saving you time and money in maintenance down the track.

Word of mouth

The best form of advertisement is word of mouth. It doesn’t hurt to ask around your social groups or family to seek opinions on the builder you are thinking of signing with. Internet research can also be handy, check out the company’s website, read their testimonials from previous clients, Facebook can also be a great tool for looking at recommendations.

Choosing the right builder to construct your new project is the most important decision in the process, ensure you are making an informed decision before signing on the dotted line. Our door is open, so if you need any help or would like to chat to one of our building consultants call us on 4152 8367 or email us today.

Loved our blog, hated our blog or just had some quick questions, why not drop us a comment below and one of our friendly team will comment below.

The ultimate guide to help you choose the perfect block of land

Thu, 16 Feb 2017 00:24:54 +1100

In order to finish right, you need to start right- that’s why having the right block of land is one of the most crucial parts of building your new home and there can often be a lot of underlying issues that aren't visible.

Here’s a guide to making a solid investment when purchasing a block to build your dream home on.

Get advice from a reliable source

There can be many hidden or underlying issues with blocks of land. Everything may look great to the naked eye, but it’s always a good idea to seek advice from a professional that can guide you to purchasing the right block.

Engaging a builder to construct your new home early in the process can be beneficial, even before purchasing your block, because they generally pick any issues they may come across with the block you are interested in, or they can give you tips on utilising the block to its fullest potential.

Sometimes if the block is cheap and seems too good to be true, it usually is. Even though a block may be cheap and in a great location, you need to consider whether it runs on sewer or septic, if a septic system is required, this adds an extra cost to your home build, and includes constant maintenance throughout its lifespan. Another thing to look for is whether it has access to town water, or if you will need to install rain water tanks, which also add cost to your home build. Checking bushfire ratings and noise corridor laws is also important and can add a significant cost to your build if they are triggered, this is where having a professional advise you on what block suits your requirements (and budget) can definitely benefit you in the long run.

Research the area

It goes without saying that everyone prefers to build their new home in the best neighbourhood they possibly can.

If you are unfamiliar with the suburb you intend to buy in, it’s important to do some research on the area. Spending time in the neighbourhood, internet research and speaking to people who already reside in or around the area are probably going to give you the best advice.

Ensuring that the neighbourhood meets all of your requirements is important, you may want to check out what facilities the area has, for example, schools, shops, parks. Checking out the traffic conditions, public transport links and the time it will take you to reach work or school can also be important.

Choosing the right size

Size does matter!

Choosing the right size block for what you require is an extremely important factor.

It’s also important to look at the area of the block that you can actually use to build your home. For example, you may find there are setback rules or area needed for a septic system.

If you are wanting to include extras such as a pool or shed, it’s important to factor that in when purchasing the block. This is where seeking advice from a professional can also come in handy, a builder should be able to tell you if your dream block can fit everything you desire… the last thing you want is to buy a block that’s too small to fit your house AND your dream pool!

Need some help?

So you have a couple blocks in mind to build your dream home on but have some questions? Why not get in touch and one of our expert building consultants can review your options for free.

When choosing a block of land to build your new home, it’s important to keep these crucial elements in mind, so you can be confident in your choice before spending your hard-earned dollars.

Speaking to a consultant who can lead you in the right direction will ensure you are properly educated enough to make an informed decision.

Loved our blog, hated our blog or just had some quick questions, why not drop us a comment below and one of our friendly team will comment below.