When families first start planning a new home, one of the first things they often ask a builder is: “What’s your square metre rate?”
It sounds like a simple way to compare quotes. But if a builder quotes only on a square metre rate, that’s nothing but bait. And once you bite, it can cost you tens of thousands more than you planned.
Because building a home isn’t like buying fruit by the kilo. Every block of land is different. Every design is unique. And every inclusion changes the cost. A neat “per square metre” figure hides all of that. It looks simple, but it leaves you blind to what you’re really paying for.
That’s why I always encourage people to slow down, do their research, and dig a little deeper before choosing a builder. If you take the time upfront, you’ll avoid the nasty surprises later.
So how do you protect yourself? There are five things I tell every family to check before choosing a builder.
Check #1: How They Communicate
The way a builder communicates with you before you sign is a good indicator of how they’ll handle things once construction begins. If you call or email, do they respond when they say they will? Do their answers feel clear and straightforward, or vague and rushed?
Good communication is the backbone of a smooth build. If it’s shaky now, it won’t magically improve later.
Check #2: Their Transparency on Costs
A vague square metre rate doesn’t cut it. You need a detailed breakdown with plans, specifications, and inclusions clearly listed.
If something isn’t written down, don’t assume it’s included. The only way to compare builders properly is to compare complete, transparent quotes. Anything less is setting yourself up for hidden costs and budget blowouts.
Check #3: Their Reputation
Don’t just take a builder’s word for it. Do some digging. Look at their past projects. Check their social media. Read reviews. Even better, talk to suppliers and trades who’ve worked with them. Reputation isn’t built on advertising – it’s built on consistent delivery.
Check #4: Their Approach to Questions
I’ll never forget a couple who came to see me with a 20-page list of questions. They weren’t even planning to build for another year, but they wanted to make sure they were prepared.
And that’s a smart move, which I always welcome: a good builder should be happy to answer your questions, not brush them off. If they respond openly and honestly, you’ll know you can trust them. If they dodge, overpromise, or dismiss your concerns, that’s a red flag.
Check #5: Their Involvement and Care
In my experience, smaller builders (especially where the owner is still hands-on) often give you a more personal, consistent experience.
When the builder takes responsibility for each project, it shows. You’re not just another number. They care about the outcome, and that care flows through every stage of the build.
Bottom Line? The Cheapest Quote Often Becomes the Most Expensive to Build
Choosing the right builder isn’t about chasing the lowest number. It’s about doing the research, asking the right questions, and making sure you know exactly who you’re trusting with your home.
Yes, it takes more effort upfront, but it saves you far more in the long run. And the good news is, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
If you’re the kind of homeowner who values doing things properly – who wants full clarity upfront, not hidden surprises down the track – this guide is for you:
Build with Confidence: 7 Things You Must Know Before Designing a New Home
Inside, I share the key checks and questions that will give you confidence before you commit to a builder.
Because at the end of the day, peace of mind doesn’t come from the cheapest number on a page. It comes from knowing you’ve done your homework, asked the right questions, and chosen a builder you can trust.
Download your copy here and sidestep one of the costliest mistakes I see people make.
Explore Master Builders and the Association of Professional Builders, then see best practices in action with Norm Wales Constructions.
