Blog

Insights, advice and real-world stories to help you build with confidence

Aerial view of a Hills Homes construction site in the Hills district, showing workers preparing a concrete slab foundation on a residential project

25 November 2025

Should you choose a builder based locally?

Thinking about using a builder based near your suburb? Learn the practical benefits of working with a local builder - from better council knowledge to faster communication and lower costs.

Map of New South Wales councils shaded green to red, representing average DA approval times across the state

22 October 2025

How long NSW councils take to approve a DA - based on real data

Explore real NSW Government data on how long councils take to approve Development Applications. See which councils are fastest and slowest, and how this can help you plan your build.

Illustration comparing NSW housing approval pathways, showing development application (DA) on one side and complying development certificate (CDC) on the other

21 October 2025

DA vs CDC: which approval pathway is right for your build

Trying to decide between DA and CDC approval? Learn the key differences, eligibility criteria, pros and cons, and how new design options can help fast-track your build.

Digital illustration showing four icons labelled HBCF, Public Liability, Workers Compensation, and Contract Works insurance

13 October 2025

4 essential insurances to check before building in NSW

Before you build, make sure your builder has the right insurance. Learn about HBCF, Contract Works, Public Liability, and Workers' Compensation cover - and how to check each one.

Golden housing-shaped trophy on stage with red curtain backdrop, symbolising residential building awards

27 September 2025

How industry awards can help you find a trusted builder

Learn how MBA and HIA building awards work, why they matter, and how they can help you identify quality builders - from luxury projects to more affordable builds.

16 September 2025

How to get the most from visiting display homes

Thinking of visiting display homes? Learn how to plan your trip, what to look out for, and how to make the most of the experience - with expert advice from IMSU.

Illustration of vacant residential lots for sale in NSW, with multiple "For Sale" signs along a new road - symbolising the choice and challenges of buying land before building

05 September 2025

Buying land in NSW: what to check before you build

Buying land in NSW? Learn the key regulations, site constraints, and common pitfalls that can limit what you build.

Coastal custom home interior by Simpson & Co Projects featuring stone fireplace, open-plan living, and ocean views designed in collaboration with architects

28 August 2025

Custom home design: independent designer vs builder's in-house team

Should you choose an independent designer or a builder's in-house team for your custom home? Simpson & Co Projects help explain the pros and cons, and how early collaboration ensures the best outcome.

Partially built house with exposed timber frames, left unfinished during a knockdown-rebuild project after the original builder went into liquidation

27 August 2025

Lessons we learned when choosing a builder

From choosing the wrong builder to finally finding the right one, here's what we learned during our knockdown-rebuild - and tips to help you avoid the same mistakes.

Green Australian road sign against a blue sky, with arrows pointing to Fixed-Price and Cost-Plus, symbolising a decision point in choosing a building contract

27 August 2025

Fixed-price vs cost-plus: which building contract is right for you?

Understand the pros and cons of fixed-price and cost-plus contracts for your build. With insights from Lachlan at Contract Admin Pro, learn how each works, the risks, and which option could suit your project best.