Choosing the right home builder is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make during the construction of your dream home. Which is why our round up of the best home builders in Australia is here to help you find the right one.
A trustworthy builder ensures quality craftsmanship, efficient project management, and a stress-free experience in a timely manner.
To empower your search, weanalysed thousands of homeowner reviews on Productreview.com.au to find you the best home builders in each estate. This guide provides valuable insights to help you find a builder who prioritises your needs during the home building process and delivers exceptional results.
Table of content
- Best Home Builders in NSW
- Best Home Builders in ACT
- Best Home Builders in NT
- Best Home Builders in VIC
- Best Home Builders in QLD
- Best Home Builders in SA
- Best Home Builders in WA
- Best Home Builders in TAS
Best Home Builders in NSW
1. McDonald Jones Homes
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Number of Reviews: 1,786
Pros of McDonald Jones Homes:
- Many satisfied customers sharing positive feedback on customer service, noting staff patience, helpfulness, and professionalism.
- Offers a diverse range of home collections suitable for different budgets and tastes.
- Recognized with awards in 2023 and 2024, underscoring industry recognition and reliability.
- Provides a comprehensive 25-year major defects warranty, ensuring long-term peace of mind for homeowners.
- Includes services like MyChoice Design Studio and MyChoice Home Loans, offering design assistance and financial services under one roof.
Cons of McDonald Jones Homes:
- Some customers reported delays in construction and issues post-handover, including structural and minor defects.
- Feedback indicates occasional communication challenges during the construction phase, impacting customer satisfaction.
- Although offering a wide range of services, there is no mention of sustainable building practices, which might be a concern for environmentally conscious buyers.
- Mixed experiences in the pre and post-construction phases suggest variability in service quality across different stages of the building process.
2. Masterton Homes
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Number of Reviews: 1,512
Pros of Masterton Homes:
- High Positive Feedback Ratio: 87% of reviews are positive, showcasing reliable service and quality.
- Comprehensive Customer Support: Reviews highlight accommodating staff, prioritizing customer needs, and providing informed, helpful assistance.
- Efficient Construction Process: The construction process is noted for its organization and smooth execution.
- Wide Range of Services: Offers pre-construction, mid-construction, and post-construction services along with various specialized services like plumbing, waterproofing, electrical work, and customer service.
- Strong Structural Integrity and Quality: High ratings in structural integrity, flooring, and other construction aspects.
- Award-Winning: Winner of the 2024 award, indicating industry recognition for excellence.
Cons of Masterton Homes:
- Some Negative Reviews: Despite a high positive ratio, there are 172 negative reviews, pointing to occasional customer dissatisfaction.
- Issues with Timeliness and Quality: Some reviews mentioned delays and minor issues with construction quality, although these were resolved.
- Limited to New South Wales: Service area is restricted to specific regions within New South Wales, limiting accessibility for potential clients outside these areas.
3. Better Built Homes
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Number of Reviews: 209
Pros of Better Built Homes:
- While they only have around 200 reviews, Better Built Homes is one of the best rated home builders in NSW.
- Positive feedback on honesty, transparency, and professionalism throughout the building process.
- Customizable options and flexibility in interior finishes.
- Efficient and informative communication, including weekly updates and photos.
- Strong performance across various aspects of the construction process, including site administration, plumbing, electrical, and customer service.
- Positive remarks on the structural integrity and quality of the homes.
Cons of Better Built Homes:
- Limited building area coverage, which may not serve potential clients outside specified regions.
- A single review mentioned a less smooth experience with the pre-submission, submission, and construction stages, pointing to a need for improvement in managing client expectations and communication.
- The company’s relatively young and inexperienced team was noted in one review, suggesting an area for potential growth and development.
Best Home Builders in ACT
4. G.J. Gardner Homes
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Number of Reviews: 2,006
Pros of G.J. Gardner Homes:
- Excellent customer service, as highlighted by a 4.8 rating, showcasing their commitment to client support and satisfaction.
- High-quality workmanship across various stages of construction, with specific high marks in plumbing & waterproofing (4.8), electrical & lighting (4.9), and structural integrity (4.9).
- Transparent and efficient communication, ensuring clients are well-informed and supported throughout the building process.
- Operates Australia-wide, providing accessibility to a broad range of customers in different regions.
- Custom home design options available, catering to clients’ specific needs and preferences.
Cons of G.J. Gardner Homes:
- A small percentage of negative reviews (5%), which, while minor compared to the positive feedback, indicates room for improvement in some areas.
- Some clients experienced issues with the administrative side of the service, affecting their overall satisfaction.
- Instances of project delays were noted, affecting the timeliness score (4.7), suggesting some variability in meeting projected timelines.
5. Stroud Homes
Rating: 4.6/5
Number of Reviews: 569
Pros of Stroud Homes:
- Positive feedback on various aspects such as plumbing & waterproofing (4.7), transparency (4.7), timeliness (4.6), electrical & lighting (4.8), customer service (4.6), structural integrity (4.8), and flooring (4.7).
- Custom design options available, with reviewers noting the company’s ability to suggest significant enhancements to the appearance of the end product.
- Reports of professional and open communication throughout the building process.
- The company is noted for handling challenges effectively and ensuring high-quality finishes.
- Stroud Homes offers a range of types of homes, including dual occupancy/duplex, granny flat, one-storey, and two-storey options.
- Recognized for sustainable building practices and offers knockdown & rebuild options.
- Has received awards in 2019, indicating industry recognition for their services.
Pros of Stroud Homes:
- A small percentage of reviews are negative (8% of reviews are negative).
- Some reviews mentioned delays and hiccups during the building process, although this seems to be somewhat expected in home construction.
- While the overall feedback is very positive, any potential issues with timeliness and communication during the build process are noteworthy for potential clients to consider.
Best Home Builders in NT
6. Kalon Homes
Rating: 4.7/5
Number of Reviews:
Pros of Kalon Homes:
- Locally and Family Owned: Enhances the personalized approach to projects and understanding of local requirements.
- Award-Winning: Recognition with 2x Best of Houzz winner accolades signifies industry recognition and client satisfaction.
- Comprehensive Project Engagement: From initial design to construction, ensuring detailed attention and client involvement throughout the process.
- Diverse Project Portfolio: Demonstrated capability across a variety of projects, including bathrooms, kitchens, exteriors, and more, showing versatility.
- Transparent Communication: Feedback points to their organized, efficient communication and the ability to keep clients informed at every step.
Cons of Kalon Homes:
- Limited Geographic Reach: Primarily focused on the Darwin and Palmerston areas, which may not cater to potential clients outside these regions.
- Newer on the Scene: Being a growing family company, they may not have the extensive history or portfolio of larger, more established firms.
- No Mention of Sustainability: While they emphasize quality and detail, there is no explicit mention of sustainable building practices or eco-friendly options.
- Limited Online Presence: With 0 followers listed, their social media and online engagement could be improved to better showcase their projects and attract a wider audience.
- Job Cost Range: Projects starting at $300,000 might not cater to those with smaller budgets or looking for minor renovations.
Best Home Builders in VIC
8. Carlisle Homes
Rating: 4.7/5
Number of Reviews: 8,812
Pros of Carlisle Homes:
- Positive Feedback on Service: Reviewers frequently praised the customer service, particularly noting the helpfulness and knowledgeability of staff throughout the building process.
- Efficient Build Stages: Many customers appreciated the efficiency in pre-construction and construction stages, including timely completions and transparency in pricing.
- Award-Winning: Carlisle Homes has received recognition with a 2024 award, showcasing industry acknowledgment for quality and service.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Offers a 25-year warranty for major defects, providing long-term peace of mind to homeowners.
- Specialized Services: They offer a wide range of home designs and house & land packages, along with a unique interactive Spectra Showroom for exploring product and decor options.
Cons of Carlisle Homes:
- Negative Experiences: While rare, some customers have reported frustration with delays and issues during the building process.
- Limited Warranty Concerns: A review mentioned a limited 3-month warranty for certain issues, which some customers found disappointing compared to the 25-year major defects warranty.
- Specific Staff Complaints: A few reviews pointed out problems with individual staff members, indicating inconsistencies in service quality.
9. Metricon
Rating: 4.3/5
Number of Reviews: 5,089
Pros of Metricon Homes:
- Comprehensive Services: Offers a range of services from pre-construction to post-construction, including customizations at Studio M selection centres.
- Wide Coverage: Services available in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia, catering to a broad audience.
- Diverse Home Options: Provides dual occupancy/duplex, one-storey, split level, and two-storey homes, catering to different needs and preferences.
- Lifetime Major Defects Warranty: Ensures long-term peace of mind for homeowners.
- Positive Staff Feedback: Reviews frequently mention patient, professional staff and communicative site supervisors.
- Timeliness and Efficiency: Many reviewers noted their homes were completed on time, with efficient service noted across various stages of construction.
Cons of Metricon Homes:
- Pre-Construction Delays: Some reviews mentioned lengthy delays during the pre-construction phase, attributed to external factors like the pandemic and inflation.
- Mixed Experience With Pre-Site Managers: While many had positive experiences, some customers faced challenges in communication and coordination with pre-site managers.
- Limited Tiling Choices: A review noted limited options during the Studio M process, suggesting room for improvement in selection variety.
- Communication Issues: Instances of communication gaps were noted, especially in coordinating start dates and responding to customer inquiries promptly.
- Concerns Over Pre-Selection Pressure: One review expressed feeling rushed during the pre-selection day, indicating potential areas for improvement in customer experience.
Best Home Builders in QLD
10. Coral Homes
Rating: 4.6/5
Number of Reviews: 970
Pros of Coral Homes:
- With a rating of 4.6 and 970 reviews, a majority of customers report positive experiences, emphasizing good quality and service.
- Award-Winning: Coral Homes received the 2024 award, indicating industry recognition for excellence.
- Detailed ratings are provided for different construction stages and services, including pre-construction, plumbing, electrical, and customer service, with scores consistently above 4.4.
- Positive Reviews Highlighting Specific Aspects: Customers have praised the efficient and friendly service, quality workmanship, upfront and transparent cost discussions, and overall satisfaction with their new homes.
- Extensive Services Offered: Coral Homes assists with new home consultations, home and land packages, floor plan drafting, inclusions, site works planning, and more.
Cons of Coral Homes:
- Administrative Delays: Some reviewers mentioned the administration process can be slow, particularly if changes affect the pre-contract, leading to potential delays.
- Mixed Experiences Post-Handover: A few reviews indicate dissatisfaction with post-handover services and overall interactions with the head office, pointing to delays in rectifying defects or issues.
- Concerns Over Quoting Accuracy: Questions raised by prospective clients about the accuracy of initial quotes and potential additional costs later in the project.
11. Brighton Homes
Rating: 4.8/5
Number of Reviews: 1,012
Pros of Brighton Homes:
- Offers comprehensive services including pre-construction, mid-construction, and post-construction stages, ensuring thorough support throughout the building process.
- Specialized services such as site admin, plumbing & waterproofing, electrical & lighting, and more, receive high ratings, suggesting expertise in various construction aspects.
- The company is praised for its customer service, structural integrity, and smooth process, from color selection to the final build.
- Positive experiences with staff who are described as helpful, patient, and proactive, enhancing the customer service experience.
- Offers a variety of home designs and packages, including options for narrow blocks and acreage homes, showing versatility in offerings.
- Partners with MyChoice Design Studio for interior design services, providing professional guidance in home customization.
- Finance services through MyChoice Home Loans help clients find suitable financing options.
Cons of Brighton Homes:
- Some reports of issues post-construction, such as electrical problems and mold, indicating potential areas for improvement in quality control and aftercare.
- The process of addressing concerns post-construction might require patience, as indicated by responses to negative reviews.
- Limited display home options for South Brisbane, potentially limiting in-person experience for clients in that area.
12. Boutique Homes
Rating: 4.6/5
Number of Reviews: 2,361
Pros of Boutique Homes:
- Strong positive feedback on customer service (4.8 rating) and transparency (4.6 rating).
- Offers a variety of build stages including pre-construction, mid-construction, and post-construction.
- Specializes in custom builds, particularly in Hampton or Farmhouse themes, with reasonable upgrade prices.
- Recognized with awards in 2023 and 2024, indicating industry recognition and reliability.
- Provides a comprehensive 25-year warranty for major defects and a 12-month warranty for minor defects.
- Supports sustainable building practices.
- Services include knockdown and rebuild options.
- Builds in a wide range of areas including Melbourne’s inner suburbs, Geelong, Surf Coast, Bendigo, Ballarat, and the Gippsland region.
Cons of Boutique Homes:
- Some limitations in customization beyond certain design options.
- Pre-construction reviews indicate that the building process can be lengthy, requiring patience and preparation from customers.
- Although positive, there are a small percentage of negative reviews (5%), suggesting that experiences may vary.
13. Clarendon Homes
Rating: 4.6/5
Number of Reviews: 2,529
Pros of Clarendon Homes:
- Positive feedback on staff professionalism and efficiency, with clear and prompt communication highlighted.
- Detailed attention to customer service, even beyond the warranty period.
- Notable quality of workmanship, with clients enjoying the end result of their constructed homes.
- Lifetime major defects warranty, providing long-term peace of mind.
- Offers a variety of home types including granny flats, and services such as knockdown and rebuild.
- Repeat clientele and willingness among customers to engage with Clarendon Homes again, suggesting strong trust and satisfaction.
Cons of Clarendon Homes:
- Some reviews mention challenges with timeliness, including project delays.
- Instances of customer dissatisfaction related to issues with workmanship and non-compliant works, indicating variability in quality.
- Communication breakdowns and dissatisfaction with handling of price increases and contract negotiations were reported.
- Negative experiences with some staff members, affecting trust and leading to frustration for some clients.
- The final cost sometimes being higher than the initial quote, causing financial uncertainty for some customers.
Best Home Builders in SA
14. Hotondo Homes
Rating: 4.8/5
Number of Reviews: 1,117
Pros of Hotondo Homes:
- Wide Range of Services: Offers various home-building services, including design inspirations, house and land packages, and assistance with knockdown and rebuild projects.
- Extensive Experience: Established in 1979, it brings decades of experience to the table.
- Local Builders Network: Comprises 70 independently owned and operated local builders across Australia, allowing for localized expertise and support.
- Transparent Communication: Customers praised the clear and effective communication throughout the building process.
- Quality Workmanship: High marks for the quality of materials used and the craftsmanship.
- Affordability: Many reviewers cited the overall cost of projects as affordable.
- Support for First Homeowners: First-time homeowners found the process smooth and less daunting than anticipated.
Cons of Hotondo Homes:
- Inconsistencies Across Locations: While overall reviews are positive, there are isolated reports of disorganization, communication issues, and post-construction service problems in certain locations.
- Delayed Resolution: Some customers experienced delays in having construction-related issues or defects addressed.
Check out Soho’s guide on house building prices in Adelaide to find out how you might need to budget.
Best Home Builders in WA
15. Dale Alcock Homes South West
Rating: 4.9/5
Number of Reviews: 608
Pros of Dale Alcock Homes:
- Exceptional Customer Service: Customers frequently praised the company’s customer service, highlighting the thorough, professional, and friendly approach of the team. This level of service ensures a smooth and stress-free building experience.
- Transparent Pricing: The company is commended for its clear and upfront pricing. Customers appreciated the absence of unexpected costs, which facilitated easier budget management and planning.
- High-Quality Trade Work: Reviews often mentioned the superior standard of trade work conducted on their homes. This high quality is a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional end results.
- Prompt Communication: The responsiveness and promptness of communication from the company’s representatives were frequently highlighted. This includes regular updates and flexible arrangements to suit customers’ schedules, ensuring a well-informed and accommodating building process.
- Trustworthiness and Professionalism: The company is recognized for its professionalism and reliability. Customers building their second home with Dale Alcock Homes South West attest to the trust and competence the builder inspires.
Cons of Dale Alcock Homes:
- Limited Choices and Variations: While not a widespread concern, a few reviews pointed out limitations in choices and variations. This could be a consideration for those seeking highly customized solutions.
- Geographical Limitation: It’s worth noting that Dale Alcock Homes South West operates specifically in the South West region of WA, potentially limiting options for those outside this area.
16. Celebration Homes
Rating: 4.8/5
Number of Reviews: 1,477
Pros of Celebration Homes:
- High customer satisfaction: Boasts a 4.8 rating based on 1,477 reviews, with 96% positive feedback.
- Comprehensive customer service: Customers praised the friendly, knowledgeable, and responsive staff, highlighting a stress-free experience.
- Detailed and organized process: High marks for site admin, transparency, and timeliness, indicating an efficient and smooth building process.
- Quality of construction: Positive reviews for structural integrity, plumbing, waterproofing, electrical, lighting, and flooring.
- Value-added services: Offers partnerships, like with Resolve Finance, to assist with the financing process, providing a more holistic service.
Cons of Celebration Homes:
- Minor defects warranty is limited to 12 months, which may be considered short compared to the lifetime of a home.
- The company primarily offers one-storey homes, which might limit options for those seeking multi-storey buildings.
- Operating hours indicate closure on weekends, which may not suit some clients’ schedules for consultations or visits.
17. Homebuyers Centre Western Australia
Rating: 4.8/5
Number of Reviews: 1,234
Pros of Homebuyers Centre Western Australia:
- High customer satisfaction with a 4.8 rating from 1,234 reviews, indicating strong positive feedback from clients.
- Offers comprehensive services from pre-construction to post-construction, with high ratings in areas like site admin, plumbing & waterproofing, electrical & lighting, and customer service.
- Features clear and patient communication, ensuring homeowners are kept informed throughout the building process.
- Demonstrates strong structural integrity in their builds, as reflected in customer feedback.
- Provides a smooth transition and onboarding process for new clients, enhancing the customer experience.
- Customers praised the professionalism and friendliness of the site supervisors and client liaison managers, indicating effective project management and customer service.
Cons of Homebuyers Centre Western Australia:
- Some customers experienced a drop in communication quality towards the end of the building process, suggesting room for improvement in consistent communication.
- The 4% negative review rate, while low, indicates that there are still occasional issues with customer satisfaction that could be addressed.
Best Home Builders in TAS
18. Wilson Homes
Rating: 4.9/5
Number of Reviews: 219
Pros of Wilson Homes:
- High Overall Satisfaction: With a 4.8 rating based on 1,234 reviews, the company demonstrates high levels of customer satisfaction.
- Positive Feedback Ratio: 95% positive feedback (1,178 positive reviews) signifies strong approval from customers.
- Comprehensive Service Ratings: High ratings across various service categories including site admin, plumbing, electrical, and customer service, suggesting a well-rounded quality of service.
- Effective Communication: The company is praised for clear and patient communication, keeping homeowners informed throughout the process.
- Professionalism and Expertise: Customer reviews highlight the professionalism and expertise of the team, from the initial consultation through to the build process.
Cons of Wilson Homes:
- Some Communication Gaps: A few reviews mention a decrease in communication quality towards the end of the building process.
- Occasional Negative Experiences: Although only 4% of the reviews are negative, any instances of dissatisfaction highlight areas for potential improvement.
More on Finding the Best Home Builders in Australia
How much does it cost to build a house in Australia?
Home building costs in Australia vary depending on a fair few factors, but typically range from $1,500 to $3,000 per square metre.
This translates to a ballpark figure of $225,000 to $500,000 for a standard 150sqm home. Keep in mind, this is just a starting point. Lavish finishes, fancy features, and swanky locations can push the price tag north quickly.
For all you Queenslanders, check out our guide on the costs of building a house in Brisbane.
Should I use a project home builder or a custom builder for my new home?
Here’s a breakdown of project builder vs custom home builders for your home.
- Project Builder: These blokes offer pre-designed house plans at set prices. It’s a streamlined process, often faster and more affordable. Perfect if you have a clear idea of what you want and are happy with a pre-determined design.
- Custom Builder: For a completely bespoke home, a custom builder is your knight in shining armour. They work with you from scratch to design and construct your dream digs. Expect a more personalised experience, but also a higher price tag and potentially longer build time.
What are some tips for choosing a home builder?
Here are some tips for choosing a home builder:
- Do your homework: Research home builders in your area, checking their reputation, certifications, and past projects. Look for reviews from previous clients for a good starting point! It’s also important to verify if the builder is registered with either the Housing Industry of Australia or the Master Builders Association of Australia. Access to a builder’s license and regulatory history, including any cancellations, suspensions, or warnings, is typically available through appropriate regulatory organizations. For instance, the NSW Fair Trading website provides a platform to review the licensing status of builders, contractors, or tradespeople.
- Get quotes: Don’t settle for the first offer! Compare quotes from several builders to ensure you’re getting a competitive price.
- Ask questions: Don’t be shy! Ask about the home builder’s experience, building process, timeline, and warranty inclusions.
- Get it in writing: A clear contract outlining everything from the build specifications to the final cost is crucial.
