Building a new home is an expensive venture, especially at the moment, with the price of materials skyrocketing due to supply chain issues. It can be tempting to save money wherever possible, but you must do so safely. To help you on this journey, we've put together a collection of ideas designed to cut costs, not corners.

Choose a Builder Who Knows the Area

A professional builder who knows the local area will also know the best ways to save time and money without compromising safety. If you're building on the Surf Coast, for example, local builders in Bellarine Peninsula will have the connections needed to get materials at a lower cost.  They’ll also be able to suggest ways to save in other aspects of the build.

Reclaim and Recycle Materials

Another way to cut costs without cutting corners is to reclaim and recycle materials, so long as it's genuinely safe. While this won't always be possible, there are generally at least a few aspects of your design that can be created with recycled materials or purchased from a store that deals in reclaimed materials.

If you’re knocking down an old structure to build your new home, you’ve essentially won the lottery in this regard. There should be plenty of things to salvage and repurpose. Of course, anyone can enjoy significant savings  – you just need to be willing to hunt for materials in the right places.

Stick to Your Plan

Once you've decided on a floor plan and general design for your home, you'll want to stick to it, as changing things later can increase costs. Late-stage changes generally involve drawing up and seeking approval for new plans. You may also find that your builder has already acquired materials or started working on a particular design which will further increase the cost of changing your mind.

Work with the Property

If your block has natural features such as mature plants or a pre-existing pond or dam, working with these aspects rather than against them can save you a significant amount on your landscaping.

Landscaping your property can be a great way to improve its curb appeal and value. There are many different landscaping options available, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Professional landscaping companies can help you create the perfect landscaping plan for your home or business.

Working with the property allows you to funnel extra money towards luxurious interior features without compromising on your curb appeal or outdoor areas. It also means you won't have to put as much effort into getting your foundation right or setting up retaining walls and similar protective measures. So, in the end, you'll save a decent chunk of your budget with this simple move.

Use Passive Design and Green Technology

Passive design involves harnessing the local climate rather than working against it. It focuses on providing plenty of natural light, improving ventilation, and regulating internal temperatures through natural means rather than artificial ones. This tactic may not save you money upfront, but it will make your home a lot cheaper in the long run.

On the green technology side of things, solar panels, water tanks, and grey water pumps will also make inhabiting it more economical. However, these are choices you must make during the design phase.