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Volume vs custom home builders - which is right for me?

by Christian Case on
New Homes Custom Home

The choice of buying or building is a significant one, but no less so is the decision between building with a volume or custom home builder.  

So, what are the differences between volume and custom homebuilders? 

Volume home builders

The term volume homebuilder refers to larger companies that produce hundreds, or thousands, of homes per year. 

These builders provide affordable building solutions that are limited to a number of set plans that allow for minimal customisation or personalisation. 

If you are budget conscious, unconcerned with creating a home that is customised to your style, and have a standard sized flat block then building with a volume builder can be an excellent choice. 

Custom home builders 

In contrast, custom home builders are usually smaller companies that build a fewer number of bespoke builds each year and typically will offer the option to have your home custom-designed in-house by an architect or draftsperson. 

While the custom build process typically requires a higher investment, in return you are able to create a one-of-a-kind home that maximises the unique attributes of your block, allows for an expression of your style and needs, and is uncompromising on quality and finish. 

Volume or custom—which is right for me?

Both volume and custom homebuilders offer solutions that may be right for you. In choosing, it is important to be as clear as possible on what your priorities are and what you want in a house that you will live in and enjoy for years to come. 

Typically speaking, a volume homebuilder may be right for you if you are:

  • Budget conscious 
  • Happy with a standard design home
  • Building on a normal sized, flat block 
  • Unconcerned with a longer build time 

Whereas a custom home builder may be better suited to your needs if in building a new home you prioritise:

  • The experience of designing and creating a home that is uniquely yours
  • Having a home that is designed to maximise the attributes of your block (including natural slope, sunlight and airflow)
  • Quality, finish and liveability details  
  • Clarity on build-time and high touch communication throughout the build process

Thinking forward and getting clear on what building and living experience you want with your new home can help to make simple the important decision of what type of homebuilder to trust with creating your new home.  

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