Home Building Hub

Investors, 70% of you are missing out on these savings. Join us as we welcome the very excited Theo Mavratzakis from Tax Depreciation Australia who explains all things tax depreciation - what it is, how it works, how much it costs, how much it can save you and the list goes on. Don’t miss this episode. Topic timestamps 2:22 - What is a quantity surveyor and what do they do? 3:53 - What is tax depreciation and how does it save you money? 5:58 - How do you determine the value of items? 7:25 - Can an accountant do a depreciation report? 8:35 - Tax depreciation explained 11:56 - How long do tax depreciation reports last? 13:00 - How long does it take to get a report? And can they be backdated? 15:05 - How old does the property need to be to get a report? 17:50 - What is scrapping? (Do NOT knock-down a house BEFORE doing this) 21:45 - It is not just new builds, Theo can help with older properties and commercial properties too 24:25 - How much does a Tax Depreciation Report cost? Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

Here’s a must watch/listen episode for first home buyers. We share the biggest mistake made by first home buyers along with outlining some of the key steps you can take to benefit from getting yourself into property sooner rather than later. Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

In this episode we briefly explain what livable housing is… and we present the core elements that will change the way home designs look in a simple format as a result of the new regulations. Topic timestamps 3:06 - What is “livable housing”? 5:15 - Wider hallways (over 1m) 6:01 - Wider doors (870mm for example) 8:33 - 1 x hobless shower (step free) 9:28 - 1 x toilet with 1200mm x 900mm “circulation space” 12:00 - Timber noggins installed within walls for future installation of grabrails 12:46 - Step-free entrance into the home (likely to be through garage) Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

If you’re buying in an estate, you can expect a few items to be added to your building quote to comply with the requirements outlined by that estate. In this episode we share (and explain) the 5 of the most common estate requirements to look out for. Topic timestamps 2:00 - What are estate requirements? 5:30 - Recycled water (third pipe) connection 6:18 - Materials to the facade 9:07 - Roof materials, type and pitch 12:45 - Fencing, landscaping and driveway 15:48 - Random items 18:30 - Bonus one: Acoustic requirements Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

Listen in to learn about the top 5 things that can impact your design and price as a result of the new regulations (NCC22). We share what we’ve learnt so far in relation to standard inclusions, orientation, what to expect on builder brochures, structural changes and the impact of fall on your block. Topic timestamps 4:26 - Impact on standard inclusions 10:20 - Impact of orientation on your lot / home 13:26 - What can you expect to see on or in builder brochures now? 16:50 - Will structural changes become a thing of the past? 23:50 - The “fall” on your lot may have a bigger impact than you think. Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

Get some valuable insights into what buyers have been doing so far in 2024 from our special guest Ryan Smits from openlot.com.au. Learn about timeframe to purchase, great offers out there right now, factors influencing buyer decisions and even a snapshot into the top areas to buy as well. To finish off, Ryan introduces a new initiative called OpenDisplay which allows you to walk through display villages digitally from the comfort of your couch, helping you narrow down your favourites to visit from there. Topic timestamps 00:38 - Welcome to Ryan Smits from openlot.com.au 2:22 - What is openlot.com.au ? 3:09 - Jan-April 2024: What have buyers been doing so far? 4:13 - Investors are back…are First Home Buyers back as well? 6:55 - What is the current timeframe to purchase? 10:18 - What offers are out there right now to incentivise a buyer to purchase? 11:24 - Side note: Hey salespeople, people who enquire want a call back after hours. 15:40 - Enquiries have increased, so what are the key factors influencing people's decision? 25:00 - What are the most popular areas out there right now? 29:18 - Get your free area trends and data by using Buyer Demand Index from openlot.com.au 34:22 - Introducing OpenDisplays - save time by walking through display villages from your couch 40:18 - Final round-up and summary of the market ahead from Ryan Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

In this episode we cover the top 10 reasons you should build new instead of buy second hand. Topic timestamps 3:50 - Stamp duty savings 5:50 - Builders warranty 9:07 - Choose your design and floorplan 10:35 - Select your colour schemes upfront 11:48 - Choose the right orientation for your block and home design 12:55 - Newer home is more energy efficient 14:48 - Save time and money on maintenance and upkeep 16:28 - Build in a masterlanned community with more amenities 19:31 - A new home is built to today's standards. Inclusions, quality and peace of mind for example 21:14 - Bottom line, a new home is brand new Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

We all need fencing, but how does it actually work? In this episode we explain what half-share fencing means, what the fencing process is, how to work out what type of fencing is required, and we finish with a couple of tips to help you better prepare for your own block when that time comes around. Topic timestamps 2:44 - Most display builders don’t offer fencing, but there are some companies that do. 4:15 - Half-share fencing… what does that actually mean? 6:41 - How does the fencing process work? 9:30 - Neighbours can build their garage on your boundary. We recommend being understanding, not difficult. 14:05 - How to work out what type of fence to install? 16:00 - TIP: Don’t forget to get a wing fence and gate quoted separately 16:50 - Corner lots usually have more requirements. Here’s why. 18:10 - Rough price for fencing Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

In this episode we explain what Bushfire Attack Level or “BAL” means. Tune in as we cover the different BAL ratings, how to find if your block is in a BAL zone, what the rough costs are and what you get for those costs as a result. Topic timestamps 2:00 - What is Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) and what does it mean? 2:40 - What level of BAL are there? 5:45 - How to find out if your block is in a BAL zone 8:00 - What is the cost of BAL requirements… and what do I get for that cost? Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

In this episode, we help outline what a nomination lot is, how it works, the main benefits and the risks associated well. We finish with a simple 4 step process for you to take if considering a nomination lot yourself. Topic timestamps 3:52 - What is a nomination block? 4:58 - How does a nomination block work? 6:50 - What are the main benefits of buying a nomination lot? 10:30 - What are the things to look out for or the risks associated with buying a nomination lot? 19:40 - DANGEROUS TRAP! Do NOT buy from a seller asking for more than the contract price 23:20 - 4 step process to take with nomination blocks Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

You MUST engage a reliable conveyancer BEFORE signing a land contract. In this episode we are joined by 2 leading conveyancers from Fastrack Conveyancing who provide a wealth of information, tips and insights to you - which will save you time and money, but also give you more peace of mind when purchasing land. This is a must watch/listen episode for all prospective land buyers. Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

With new regulations coming to Victoria on May 1st, 2024, this episode is all about giving you a quick summary of the changes to better equip you with some basic knowledge of the changes as you speak to new home builders. We explain what the new regulations are in relation to 7 Star energy ratings, Livable Housing requirements and the ‘Whole of Home’ assessment as well. Topic timestamps 2:30 - 7 star energy 6:30 - Livable housing 10:25 - Whole of home 13:00 - What are the costs and how to avoid the new regs Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

In this episode we reveal the 3 main types of land purchases, outlining the pros and cons of each. If you’re looking to buy a block of land or house and land package be sure to tune in for great tips and insights that will ensure you make a well informed decision. Topic timestamps 1:48 - Different block types explained. 6:06 - Where can you buy blocks of land from? 8:15 - Buying from a land estate directly - pros and cons. 11:52 - Buying from a real estate agent - pros and cons. 19:40 - Buying a nomination block - pros and cons. Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

Looking to build on a rural or acreage lot? Join us as we explain what rural lots are, which items to consider, how to obtain the right information and some helpful tips along the way. Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

In this episode we explain to you why site costs are so confusing and why they may vary from builder to builder. We explain the inclusions and exclusions, how builders price site costs and also help you understand the role an engineer plays in the process too. A short episode, but a valuable one so be sure to listen in. Topic timestamps 2:30 - Why do site costs vary between builders? 5:25 - You don’t need to be a site cost expert, but understand this… 8:57 - What are retaining walls and why you need to consider them 10:45 - Let the builder’s consultant explain the different items and variables 11:52 - An engineer designs your slab and its requirements, not the builder. 14:27 - How do builders fix site costs upfront? 17:17 - The builder sets their own parameters upfront, and those parameters vary from builder to builder. 20:55 - It is the builder that will give you site costs, don’t listen to anyone else’s “guess”. Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

We’ve got a home loan expert onboard to help you understand all things finance. Everything from brokers vs banks, the best ways to achieve your saving goals and government incentives explained… right through to the ultimate question - what do interest rates look like over the coming months and ultimately is now the time to buy? Don’t miss this episode as it is jam-packed with great insights. Topic timestamps 1:47 - Introducing our expert guest - Steve Matsoukas 3:16 - Steve’s background and Loan Gallery introduction 4:20 - What are the benefits of using a broker over a bank? 6:00 - Using a broker will save you money and cost you nothing - here’s why 11:00 - How can people best prepare themselves for savings and getting a loan? 15:55 - Start the discussion early with a broker and work with them to achieve your savings goals. 17:33 - Here’s how untitled land can get your foot in the door whilst still saving for the house. 20:35 - Get yourself a team - broker, sales consultant, land agent and conveyancer. 21:13 - Titled land vs untitled land… and the risks associated. 22:40 - The Home Guarantee Scheme is a great opportunity, but not many people know about it. 27:30 - How to qualify for Government incentives. 30:27 - What do interest rates look like over the coming months? … and ultimately is now the time to buy? 35:54 - Despite the media imposing fear, mortgage defaults have barely changed 37:45 - Stop listening to the family BBQ “expert”... take action now as new home regulations will be much more expensive than any interest rate changes. 41:02 - Understand your assessment rate, not the interest rate. 43:55 - Google: Loan Gallery and talk to their brokers now! Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

There’s rubbish on your site pre-construction, so who is responsible for clearing it? In this episode we help you understand who is responsible for clearing a site, what is actually considered “clear” and at what point the builder takes over the responsibility of your site. Alos, stick around until the end to hear a nice little giveaway for our listeners. Topic timestamps 5:00 - Who is responsible for clearing a site pre-construction? 6:55 - How clear is clear? Understanding contamination. 9:22 - At what point do I know my builder has “accepted” and taken over my site?10:35 - Will the Builder’s insurance cover rubbish on site? 11:20 - Tip 1: Check your block regularly and address items right away if you see them 12:35 - TIP 2: Arrange temporary fencing yourself using the same company as your builder 14:17 - TIP 3: Don’t pick the cheapest site clean or you may be paying for them to come back again 16:45 - TIP 4: Ask the builder if they have a preferred site cleaning company 19:33 - Special giveaway for our listeners Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

On the 1st Jan 2024 in Victoria, new “all-electric” regulations came into effect, meaning no more gas in newly constructed homes. In this episode, we discuss these new regulations and help you navigate through some of the more common questions around the timing, how to know if you’re impacted, the items being affected and the items that will now replace the gas items. Topic timestamps 4:48 - What are the changes regarding all-electric and no gas? 7:18 - When did these ew electric changes come into place? 7:30 - How can you tell if your land is subject to new ‘all-electric’ requirements? 12:57 - What common items will be affected by this change? 14:07 - What can you expect to see replace the normal gas items/appliances? 15:07 - How much will it cost to move from gas to all-electric? 16:22 - How will builders apply these new requirements during the transition period? Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

Just a quick video from us to say thank you to our viewers, listeners and our guests as we wrap up the year that was 2023. Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au

The decision has just been made to ban engineered stone benchtops in Australia. In this episode, we do our best to share what we know so far, outlining the who, what, where, when, why and how… using the information available to date. This is a MUST watch/listen for anyone looking to build or already in the process of building a new home. Topic timestamps 1:42 - Why are stone benchtops being banned? 2:50 - What is silicosis? 5:35 - Who has made this decision? 8:05 - When will the ban come into place? 10:23 - How will the ban be rolled out across the country? 15:55 - What are the alternatives to replace stone benchtops? 20:30 - Let’s be realistic and put this in perspective. 23:55 - What are your chances of getting stone installed? 25:26 - Producing more stone now will be pointless, so supply will dry up. 29:20 - Some builders may choose to stop stone on all jobs immediately - here’s why. Liking the show? Please leave us a 5 star rating on your podcast platform and share the show with others - thank you. Got a question, topic idea or feedback? Head to our website and leave your comments there > homebuildinghub.com.au Other places to watch or listen... and catch up on more content: YouTube Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Want to reach out to Colin or Darren directly? Colin - 0419 220 140 - colin@hlvictoria.com.au Darren - 0430 087 450 - darrenbrennan@metricon.com.au