...building a new one..

Yes, we're finally up to this part!

Over the last 4 months (since selling) we've been engaging with building companies, finalising what kind of house we could afford and what kind of house will fit on the new block. It hasn't been easy: sorting out the 'final' cost of the house varies across companies. I'm still wondering how a 'finished' house doesn't include flooring??? That's an 'extra' or 'upgrade' apparently...

Buzz words aside, we decided to go with a building company outside of the major ones with show homes and abysmal decor. This company were happy to work with our brief (3-4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 living areas) and design a house that not only works on our block but suits our tastes and budget. We started with a list of wants / needs (scullery, room for a large bath, extra insulation, extra large garage for a workshop) and whittled down what was really important to us versus the $$$ it would cost. Overall, we've come up with a house design that we feel good about, with builders and designers we are excited to work with.

We've paid two installments so far. One to start the design process (after several early sketches), and the other to submit to council. So here we sit, waiting for any objections (if any) to come back from council and a full set of drawings to start moving (...make that digging). It's nice not to be dealing with council this time.

There's just one little thing...one little deadline...we've got 8 months to build and move in, or we're going to have to move out of this house and stay somewhere (???) until the new house is finished. I'm really hoping we don't have to move twice. Couple that with an expanding family, we've got lots going on again this year. We don't seem to do things by halves...