Hi everyone, so... 3 years later and after many back and forth we have decided to knock down the house and rebuild. The cost of renovating was just too prohibitive and not to mention the unexpected surprises that surely would come with it. We should start the building of the new home in a month or less. Just wanted to thank everyone who helped in this thread, your opinions were very important and helped us decide. We are not doing a custom build, instead we chose one of those pre-designed homes (Dennis Family) but we are very happy and excited. Cant wait for it to be done. Will post photos when ready.

Hi Everyone. It's been a while and not sure if anyone on here will even see this post but thought I would provide a quick update after almost 2 years. We finally moved in a couple of months ago and will host our first Christmas. We never did find a builder, and I did have some legal issues to sort out, including the previous building breaking in and taking anything but we had someone project manage different stages to the point that it is livable. The house is no where near finished and it has been a difficult journey but we are there. Next year I hope to find a builder to take on Stage 2 so that I can say that after 10 years, it is finally finished. A big thank you to Two's Company who got me started. If it wasn't for your advise and assistance I really don't know what would have happened.

Thank you so much, Julie. I thought you would be interested in the end result, given how much encouragement and advice you so generously gave me. :-) I do love it. It has made such a difference and I think (fingers crossed) the landscaping will give it the finishing touch. We are reroofing the pergola, so will post photos when that is completed. The gazebo looks great after its facelift, too.

Hi 1991_kid If your intention is to be cost effective there are a number of approaches that you might like to take, however, the first plan of approach would be to gather as much information as possible before you begin construction. Most of this will be achieved by having a good set of drawings specifications and a very good research on materials and labor which are available in the area with reduced transport costs. This is some of the approaches that I would take; 1. If you are thinking of using a building company to do your house to "lock up" you may need to register as "an owners builder" you can find more info here or from your private "Building Surveyor", on an internet search 2. If you are thinking of using a building company that does "Design and construct" I would have a careful read of this article on my website. http://www.newhomedesign.com.au/index.php/faqs-article-based/faq-9 3. When you are considering your design I would have an independent person preferably one that does it for a living and has a few years experience monitor or vets your design. Consulting fees might be expensive but it's the only way that you will get an independent design appraisal. 4. Eventually you will have to do your "permit drawings" - Working Drawings and specifications - in Victoria these must be done by a registered person - you do not want the Builder to be responsible for this part as the person he employs will be loyal to him as he is likely to give him further work, you will most likely just give him one job, so it would be reasonable to assume that in any consideration or dispute he will take the side of the Builder - regardless what is said at the beginning. (You may also need a town planning permit depending on your circumstances) 5. You will have to vet your possible Builders and time with your build, I suggest that even if an amount of traveling is required you eventually do this face to face with at least three of your final picks - you have to get on with your Builder so a major effort on research is definitely required. It should be clear and in writing which items the Builder will purchase on your behalf, who pays for delivery and who does the installation especially of such items like windows, doors, landscaping and so on, and which items you will purchase ... etc. Specifications are nothing more than a "list" - try to keep it simple but be specific, but make sure it is written down and signed by both parties. 6. You can only get a "true tender price" from a builder that thinks he can get the job - and you can only achieve this if you have very good drawings and specifications else even a small error of 10% may mean $30,000+ depending on your overall costs. All other prices are a guestimate - a meter squared rate by the number of squared meters will give you a price - ask the builder for the approximate meter squared rate. There are many more twists and turn in this process of part/ self-build, wish you the best with your en devours, I would be happy to consult further if requested. Regards Michael.