Upgrade Cost Guide
Outdoor & External Upgrade Costs
Driveways, fencing, and landscaping
What is it?
External inclusions cover driveways, pathways, fencing, letterboxes, clotheslines, landscaping, alfresco areas, and outdoor lighting. These items complete the home's exterior and are frequently excluded from base prices.
Why buyers compare it
- External items can add $10,000–$25,000+ when excluded
- Post-build installation is almost always more expensive
- Driveways and fencing are essential for functionality
- Landscaping transforms the liveability of the home
Is it worth upgrading?
Questions to Ask Your Builder
Outdoor & External Cost Estimates
$4,000 – $12,000
Standard concrete driveway not included in base price
$5,000 – $18,000
Full boundary fencing typically not included
$8,000 – $30,000
Turf, garden beds, paths, and plants
$3,000 – $10,000
Almost never included in builder contracts
Compare My Build Tip
Ask specifically: Is the driveway included? Is fencing included on all boundaries? What about a letterbox and clothesline? These small items add up to $10,000–$25,000+ when done separately.
About these cost estimates
All cost estimates are indicative ranges based on Australian market data and should be used as a general guide only. Actual costs vary significantly by builder, region, specification, and site conditions. Always obtain a written quote from your builder.
Commonly Missed Outdoor & External Upgrades
Concrete Driveway
Standard concrete driveway not included in base price
$4,000 – $12,000
Depends on size, colour, and finish
Fencing (boundary)
Full boundary fencing typically not included
$5,000 – $18,000
Highly dependent on block size and fence type
Landscaping (front & back)
Turf, garden beds, paths, and plants
$8,000 – $30,000
Varies enormously — get separate quotes
Window Coverings (blinds/curtains)
Almost never included in builder contracts
$3,000 – $10,000
Per home, varies by window count and product
Outdoor & External Upgrade Cost Breakdown
Concrete Driveway
★ Commonly missedStandard concrete driveway not included in base price
Depends on size, colour, and finish
$4,000 – $12,000
Fencing (boundary)
★ Commonly missedFull boundary fencing typically not included
Highly dependent on block size and fence type
$5,000 – $18,000
Landscaping (front & back)
★ Commonly missedTurf, garden beds, paths, and plants
Varies enormously — get separate quotes
$8,000 – $30,000
Window Coverings (blinds/curtains)
★ Commonly missedAlmost never included in builder contracts
Per home, varies by window count and product
$3,000 – $10,000
Related Guides
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Hidden Costs Builders Don't Mention
Discover the costs that builders commonly exclude from their advertised 'from' prices.
Upgrade Costs Guide
Full breakdown of common upgrade costs across all categories in Australian home builds.
What to Compare Before Signing
The essential checklist of what to compare between builders before you sign a contract.
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Use our free comparison tool to see exactly what each builder includes versus charges as an upgrade — side by side.
Compare Builder Inclusions