What is Compare My Build?

An interactive comparison platform for home buyers to evaluate builders, plans, and inclusions in their region side-by-side.

What is a house and land package?

A house and land package bundles a specific block of land with a specific home design from a volume builder. The price covers both land and build — often with a single settlement process. First home buyers commonly use house and land packages.

Is a house and land package cheaper than buying land separately?

Not necessarily. The convenience and bundled pricing can sometimes reflect a premium. Compare the land price against comparable blocks separately before assuming the package is the best value.

What is the difference between house and land and custom build?

A house and land package uses a volume builder's standard design on a selected block. A custom build involves designing a home from scratch (or significantly modifying a standard design) to specific requirements.

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Home›Build Knowledge Hub›Building Process›Building Contracts & Costs›House and Land Package vs Custom Build

Building Contracts & Costs

House and Land Package vs Custom Build

Comparing house and land packages against custom home builds — cost, flexibility, timeline and what's right for different buyers.

6 min·Compare My Build — Independent Resource· Updated June 2025

Introduction

House and land packages are one of the most common ways Australians build new homes — particularly first home buyers. But they involve trade-offs in design flexibility and cost transparency. Understanding the differences between packages and custom builds helps you make the right choice for your situation.

Feature	House & Land Package	Custom Build
Design flexibility	Low — standard designs	High — designed to brief
Cost certainty	High — packaged price	Lower — more variables
Timeline	Faster — design ready to go	Slower — design phase required
Land availability	Developer estates	Any available land
First Home Buyer suitability	Very high	Moderate
Upgrades	Standard selections	Fully bespoke
Cost	Packaged price	Typically higher overall

Common Builder Inclusions

›House and land packages simplify the building process — particularly for first home buyers
›Always check if the land price in the package reflects true market value
›First Home Owner Grants and stamp duty concessions may apply — check current eligibility
›Upgrade selections within a package can add 10–25% above the advertised price