However, understanding the costs involved is crucial to ensuring your project stays within budget. From land preparation to construction and council fees, there are many factors to consider.
In this guide, we’ll explore the key components that influence the cost of building a dual occupancy home and share practical tips to help you budget effectively.
Factors influencing the cost of building a dual occupancy home
Land preparation & site conditions
Preparing your land is one of the first expenses to consider. Its cost depends on factors like:
Soil quality: Poor soil may require additional excavation or reinforcement
Site accessibility: Hard-to-reach sites or sloping blocks can incur additional preparation costs
Demolition: If there’s an existing structure on the property, you’ll need to budget for demolition and waste removal.
Marque collaborates with you to assess site conditions and minimise unexpected costs, ensuring a seamless start to your dual occupancy project. As part of our process, we conduct thorough soil tests to fully understand your site, laying the groundwork for a solid and successful build.
Design & planning phase
The design phase is critical to creating a home that meets your needs while adhering to local regulations. Costs in this stage may include:
Architectural and design services: Marque offers a range of design options, from pre-designed plans to fully custom layouts, including a range of contemporary dual occupancy designs.
Council approvals: Marque will take care of all necessary documentation, including permits, energy ratings, and paperwork, ensuring your build project runs smoothly and efficiently.
Personalising your home: The most exciting aspect of building a new home is the opportunity to bring your unique vision to life. Marque offers a collaborative process, helping you in selecting the perfect colours, finishes, and products to create a home that truly reflects your personal style and preferences.
Choosing a builder like Marque, who specialises in dual occupancy homes, transforms the building process into a cherished experience while delivering cost-effective design solutions tailored to your needs.
Construction costs
Construction costs should form the largest portion of your budget, so be aware and plan accordingly. These costs depend on:
Size and complexity: Larger homes with intricate designs are more expensive to build
Materials: Premium materials add aesthetic appeal but come at a higher price
Labour: The level of expertise required can influence labour costs.
If you’re wondering, “how much does it cost to build a dual occupancy home?”, the answer depends on a variety of factors, including the specifications, finishes, and overall design choices.
Utility connections & infrastructure
Dual occupancy homes require independent connections for utilities like water, electricity, and gas, which can increase costs. Additional infrastructure expenses may include:
Stormwater and sewerage upgrades
Driveway construction
Fencing and landscaping
Working with an experienced builder like Marque ensures all these details are accounted for early in the process.
How much does it cost to make a dual occupancy home in Melbourne?
The cost of building a dual occupancy home in Melbourne can vary significantly depending on factors such as location and design choices. Understanding these variables is key to creating a realistic budget and planning your build effectively.
Base construction expenses are influenced by the size and specifications of your home. Homes with custom designs typically require additional investment to accommodate bespoke features and personalised layouts, which add both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Additionally, costs can fluctuate based on your specific preferences, the characteristics of your land, such as soil quality and slope, and local market conditions. By factoring in these elements early, you can ensure your project aligns with your vision while staying within budget.
Hidden costs to watch out for
Hidden costs can catch homeowners off guard. To avoid surprises, consider:
Soil testing and surveys
Landscaping and fencing
Legal fees
GST and taxes
Working with a trusted builder ensures transparency, helping you prepare for any hidden expenses while saving both time and money.
Cost-saving tips for building a dual occupancy home
Choose an experienced builder: Builders like Marque specialise in dual occupancy projects, and can optimise designs for efficiency and cost savings
Plan for future growth: Designing for flexibility, such as adding income-generating rental units, can boost long-term value
Opt for standard inclusions: While customisations are appealing, sticking to standard layouts and finishes can reduce costs
Consider sustainability: Energy-efficient designs may have higher upfront costs but lower ongoing expenses.
Start your dual occupancy journey with confidence
Building a dual occupancy home is a significant investment, but with careful planning and the right builder, it can be a rewarding one. From land preparation to construction and hidden costs, understanding all the elements involved will help you budget effectively and avoid surprises.
If you’re still wondering “how much does it cost to build a dual occupancy home?”, Marque Homes is here to provide clarity and expert guidance.
Contact Marque today to explore tailored solutions that bring your vision to life while staying within budget.
