Comparing Builders Side By Side After Display Visits
You've visited the display villages. Now comes the hard part — making sense of what each builder actually offers for the price. Here's how to compare fairly.
Why Side-by-Side Comparison Is Hard
Each builder presents their offering differently — different base prices, different inclusions lists, different upgrade pricing. Making a fair comparison requires standardising what you've seen. Don't compare base prices; compare what you'd actually get for the same money.
Step 1 — Build a Consistent Feature List
After each display visit, record the same set of features for every builder. Include:
- Ceiling height (standard)
- Flooring type (tiles, carpet, hybrid)
- Stone benchtops — standard or upgrade?
- Ducted air conditioning — included or extra?
- Façade style shown vs what's in base price
- Alfresco — size and inclusions
- Garage — width, door type, tiling
- Energy rating (NatHERS stars)
Step 2 — Get Written Inclusions From Every Builder
Never compare based on verbal explanations. Request the full inclusions list in writing from every builder you're considering. If they can't or won't provide one, treat that as a red flag. A reliable builder will hand you a detailed document covering every standard feature.
Watch: The "from price" trap
Builders advertise a "from" price that rarely reflects what you'll pay. Always ask: "What is the total turnkey price for a home like this display, on a flat block?" That's your real comparison number.
Step 3 — Use a Comparison Tool
Our free comparison tool lets you compare builder inclusion plans side-by-side — seeing exactly which features are standard, which are upgrades, and which aren't offered. No sign-up required.
Compare Builders NowStep 4 — Account for Site Costs
Site costs are not included in a builder's advertised price. They vary significantly based on your land — soil type, slope, drainage, and access. Get a site assessment from each builder before comparing final prices. A builder with a lower base price may have higher site costs.