Start your custom build with confidence

Fill in the form below to download the free step-by-step building guide.

✔ Understand the 6 key phases of a custom build

✔ Learn how to avoid common budget and timeline blowouts

✔ Get clarity on approvals, site planning, and builder selection

✔ Delivered by a trusted local builder for Northern Rivers & surrounds

Designed for future homeowners interested in custom builds

Thinking of building a custom home but not where where to start? Our free guide walks you through each stage of the process - from choosing a builder to understanding timelines and contract types. It’s designed to give you the clarity and confidence you need before you commit.

What you’ll learn

✔ The key stages of a custom build: from site prep to handover, get a breakdown of what to expect

✔ Choosing the right builder: what to look for in a new home builder and the red flags to avoid

✔ Understanding quotes & contracts: how to interpret fixed price vs cost-plus, allowances, and contingencies

Is this guide right for you?

This guide is for anyone considering a custom build and looking for clarity before taking the next step. It’s a great fit if:

You’re planning a custom new home in Northern Rivers, Byron Bay, or Southern Gold Coast.

You value quality, longevity, and thoughtful design - not just a fast build.

You’re comparing builders and want to make an informed decision before committing to a builder.

You want to understand what’s involved before committing to the new build process.

You appreciate clear communication, honest advice, and a structured process.

You want a clear, upfront understanding of timelines, costs, and what to expect, and what to expect at each stage.

What you’ll walk away with

✔ A breakdown of the full building process

✔ Tips for choosing the right builder

✔ Clarity on contracts and quoting

✔ Guidance tailored for high-quality custom homes

 FAQs

  • Yes - even if you’ve already engaged a designer or architect, this guide will help you better understand the construction side of the process. It’s designed to give you clarity on timelines, costs, approvals, and what to expect when you move from planning to building.

  • Not at all. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or already deep in the planning phase, the guide is designed to help you feel more informed and confident, no matter where you’re at in your journey.

  • It depends on a range of factors, including the site conditions, size of the home, level of finishes, and design complexity. The guide walks you through how pricing is typically structured and what to consider when budgeting for a custom build.

  • Yes - we offer a full Design & Build service, meaning we can manage your project tfrom initial design concept right through to handover. If you already have plans, we’re happy to work collaboratively with your architect or designer.

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Delivered by the team at Hearth Built

With years of hands-on experience and a genuine commitment to quality, the Hearth Built team works closely with every client to deliver one-off homes that reflect their lifestyle, site, and long-term goals. This guide was created to help you understand the building process, avoid common pitfalls, and feel more confident as you take the next step in your building journey.

Because building a home shouldn’t feel overwhelming - and with the right builder, it won’t.

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Hear from our clients

  • "We can't thank Hearth Built enough for their outstanding work. After our previous builder went insolvent and left us high and dry, they stepped in and turned everything around. Their professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail were exceptional. The quality of work exceeded our expectations, and they kept us informed every step of the way. Highly recommend!"

    - Luke D

  • "Darius and his team from Hearth Built did a truly wonderful extension to my home. The quality of the build was above and beyond, plus the professional and friendly tradies really helped the whole experience. My friends and family are also very impressed. Well done and thanks to Hearth Built. 100% recommend your company. "

    - Karen S

  • "Without hesitation, we recommend Hearth Building. The owner Darius listens to his clients and does his upmost to accomplish what they want. Phone calls and texts are returned in a timely way, comments taken onboard for changes and improvements. An excellent company! "

    - Greg R

  • "We engaged Darius and Hearth Built for a demolition and new home build. Our experience with Hearth Built was nothing short of exceptional. From start to finish, they demonstrated an unwavering commitment to quality, reliability, and professionalism. Their attention to detail is remarkable, and the high standard of workmanship they delivered truly sets them apart. It’s clear that they are deeply passionate about their craft."

    - Michael G

  • "We were heavily affected in the Northern rivers 2022 floods and found ourselves homeless. Darius stepped in and offered his time, professional advice and services immediately to help us get back in our home asap. He was professional, prompt with communications, reliable and loyal with his time and did an absolutely fantastic job in repairing and rebuilding our home. We cannot recommend Darius and his team at Hearth Built more highly for the work they did with our home and hope to use them again in the future."

    - Layla M

  • "Darius and his team at Hearth Built have been nothing but outstanding, the friendly manner that himself and his team portray has been an absolute pleasure to work with. With his professionalism I can highly recommend Hearth Built for any of your building needs!"

    - Trevor Z

  • "I engaged Hearth Built to build a second story above my existing double garage. They did a great job, were professional, easy to work with, had a positive “can do” attitude, managed any outside contractors and overall great communication. I’m really happy with the work and it even finished on time! I would recommend Hearth Built (Darius) to anyone doing a major renovation or new build."

    - Geraldine R

  • "Darius was fantastic a life saver for us. We bought this old shack and stripped it right back and we are so happy with the finished product. The Northern Rivers are lucky to have him. Highly recommend!"

    - Julia D

  • "Have had a great experience renovating the family home with Hearth Built. The team are reliable, trustworthy and have great workmanship with attention to detail. Would highly recommend."

    - Juliana K

  • "Hearth Built were professional and a pleasure to work with. Our project was executed to a high standard and on time."

    - Anna P

Your home starts with the right foundations

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to take the next step, this guide will help you feel more prepared and supported as you plan your custom build.