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What does turnkey mean in home building?

A turnkey home means you can 'turn the key' and move straight in — everything is complete. This typically includes flooring, window furnishings, landscaping, letterbox, clothesline and all connections. However, the definition varies by builder.

Is a turnkey home more expensive?

Yes — but you need to add all the excluded items to a non-turnkey price to compare accurately. The true cost difference depends on which items are excluded from the non-turnkey price.

What is typically not included in a non-turnkey build?

Common exclusions: flooring (some or all), landscaping, driveway, window furnishings, fencing, letterbox and clothesline. Each can add thousands of dollars after handover.

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Building Contracts & Costs

Turnkey vs Non-Turnkey Homes

What does 'turnkey' actually mean in a new home build — and is a turnkey package worth paying more for?

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

Introduction

Turnkey is a term used in home building that implies the home is complete and ready to move into — you just turn the key. But what 'turnkey' actually includes varies significantly between builders. Understanding exactly what's included (and what isn't) is critical when comparing quotes from different builders.

Item	Typically Turnkey	Often Not Turnkey
Flooring (tiles, carpet)	Full home	Wet areas only, or carpet to bedrooms
Landscaping (front/back)	Basic lawn/plants	Rarely included
Driveway	Yes	Not always
Window furnishings	Some builders	Rarely
Fencing	Side only	Rarely full block
Letterbox	Yes	Not always
Clothesline	Yes	Not always
Connections (power, water, gas)	Yes	Yes

Common Trap

Two builders advertising "turnkey" can have very different definitions. Ask each builder to provide a written list of every item included in their turnkey package. Compare line by line — not just the total price.

Common Builder Inclusions

›Always ask for a written definition of what 'turnkey' includes from each builder
›Add up the cost of excluded items when comparing turnkey vs non-turnkey prices
›Landscaping alone can add $15,000–$50,000 after handover if not included
›Flooring throughout a home can add $8,000–$25,000 if not included in contract