If your list of New Year’s resolutions begins with ‘become a homeowner’, then congratulations! Buying or building a new home is a big step, it’s true, but it’s also a super exciting one. To help ensure you start off on the right foot, take a moment to consider these important points.

You love where you live, all of your friends and family live nearby, your kids go to school down the road and you’re a part of the community. There’s just one hitch - you’ve outgrown your home. A knockdown rebuild may be the perfect solution, a brand new home that matches your lifestyle, right where you want to be. Here’s everything you need to know about the process.

Does your block need a soil test and contour survey?

Before you can demolish your old home, a soil test and contour survey will need to be completed. A soil test will identify what kind of foundations your new home will require while a site survey will indicate the slope of your land, service connection points, easements and existing features to assist with the new design.

When should you demolish your home?

Before you call your local demolition contractor, make sure you have finalised your plans and specifications in your building agreement and that your new home has been approved by council. You will also need to obtain a demolition permit.

What will your demolition costs be?

Ask your demolition contractor to visit your site first and provide you with a comprehensive quote for the cost of the demolition. The quote should include the cost of permits, labour and equipment, the removal of materials and estimated worth of salvageable items.

What else should be included in my tender?

• Storm water treatment – some councils may require a hydraulic engineer’s design f or treating stormwater.
• Flood affectations – low lying, coastal or other areas identified by council may require you to undertake flood studies, raise the floor levels of your home, or use site specific building materials. Your 149 certificate will tell you if you are in a flood affected zone.
• Existing services - availability, location and the condition of existing essential services such as gas, sewer and power need to be considered.

Eden Brae Homes are on-hand to guide you through the entire process, from your initial site assessment right through to your post move-in warranty inspection. You’ll know exactly what to expect, and when to expect it, at every stage of their fully transparent knockdown rebuild process.