Choosing Between a Custom Builder vs Volume Builder

September 9, 2025

Choosing the right builder matters more than most people realise. It shapes your budget, build time and the level of freedom you’ll have to design something that suits your lifestyle.

When planning a new home or granny flat, many homeowners compare a volume builder vs custom builder. Each has its strengths, but picking the wrong one for your block or budget can lead to costly setbacks.

The Difference Between a Custom Builder vs Volume Builder

Both options can get you a finished home. But they serve very different goals. One offers more flexibility and custom choices. The other is fast and follows a set formula.

Knowing how volume vs custom builder works can help you avoid costly surprises. Whether you're planning a dream home or a granny flat out the back, the right choice depends on how much say you want, how fast you need it and how flexible your site is.

Defining Volume Builder vs Custom Builder

Not all builders operate the same way. Understanding the difference between a custom builder vs volume builder can save you time, money, and hassle down the track.

Volume Builder

Volume builders work from a library of ready-made plans and build those homes repeatedly. It’s a streamlined system built for speed and efficiency. That means fewer changes and lower costs up front. It’s a fast way to get a home up, especially if you’re not fussed about personalising every corner.

Custom Builder

Custom builders take on homes designed around your vision and your block. Each build is treated as a one-off project, not a repeat job. They’re flexible on layouts, finishes and site challenges.

Custom builders often work on knockdown rebuilds, complex sites or limited lot sizes. It’s more involved, but you get something that’s truly yours.

Side-by-Side Comparison of a Volume vs Custom Builder

This side-by-side comparison shows how a custom builder vs volume builder stacks up when it comes to the things that matter most in a home build.

Pros and Cons: Custom Builder vs Volume Builder

Both volume vs costume builder come with their strengths and trade-offs. Knowing what to expect can help you line up your budget, timeline and expectations early.

Custom Builder

Pros:

Custom design for your land and lifestyle: Your home is built to suit your block, not the other way around. Ideal if your block is tricky or your layout needs more than a standard plan.
Higher build quality and attention to detail: Smaller project loads mean better site supervision and craftsmanship throughout the build.
Flexibility with materials and layout: You choose everything from tapware to floor plans. Nothing’s locked in unless you want it that way.
Better communication with the builder: You’ll deal directly with the builder or project manager, not a sales team.
Handles challenging or sloped blocks: Custom builders know how to handle slopes, tight access and awkward block shapes. They design to suit the land, not fight it.
More involvement in decision-making: You’re part of the process from start to finish, which means fewer surprises and more satisfaction.

Cons:

Slightly higher cost: Personalised service and flexibility can add to the upfront cost. You’re paying for something built to your specs, not bulk.
Longer timeline in some cases: Custom projects take longer to plan and approve. Be prepared for a longer planning stage before the build gets underway.

Volume Builder

Pros:

Lower starting price: Bulk buying and standard designs keep costs down. It’s often the most budget-friendly way to get into a new home.
Faster build times on standard blocks: With streamlined systems and repeatable plans, builds move quickly. Great if you’re working to a deadline or want to move in fast.
More display home options to view: You can walk through finished builds before making a decision, which helps visualise the result.

Cons:

Limited design flexibility: You’re mostly restricted to their range of plans and minor changes come with a fee.
Difficulties building on non-standard lots: Sloping, narrow or irregular sites are often outside their scope or incur extra charges.
Less personal service: You’ll likely deal with a sales consultant first, then be passed to a construction team later on.
Can incur variation costs for upgrades or design personalisation: Upgrading from the base package can increase costs quickly, especially if you make several changes.

Volume Builder and Custom Builder: Which One is Right for You?

Selecting between a volume builder vs custom builder can shape the entire home-building experience. It affects your timeline, costs, and how much say you’ll have in the final result.

Choose a Custom Builder if:

You want a home that suits your unique lifestyle or land

Custom builders work with your ideas, not just a set of plans. They can design your home around how you live and where you’re building.

You’re building on a sloped, narrow, or irregular block

Challenging sites need tailored solutions. A custom builder designs the home to work with the land, not against it.

You want more input on materials and design

With a custom build, you’re part of the decision-making. You can choose everything from layout to tapware.

You’re after higher-quality finishes

Custom builders usually offer more attention to detail. You’re more likely to get premium materials and skilled workmanship.

You value direct communication with the builder

You’ll speak with the actual builder, not just a sales team. This makes the process smoother and more personal.

You’re building a custom home or granny flat

If you’re planning something non-standard, like a granny flat design or a luxury home, custom is the way to go. These types of builds usually aren’t covered by volume builders’ standard options.

You want your home to stand out, not blend in

Custom homes are made to be different. If you want something one-of-a-kind, a custom builder can deliver it.

Choose a Volume Builder if:

You’re building on a standard flat block

Volume builders are set up for straightforward blocks. If your land is flat and typical in size, this is often the most efficient choice.

You’re happy with a pre-designed plan

Volume builders offer a wide range of ready-made floor plans. If one fits your needs, you can save time and money.

You need a faster move-in time

With systems in place and fewer customisations, volume builders can often finish the job sooner. It’s ideal if you’re in a hurry to settle in.

You’re on a tight budget

Volume builders buy materials in bulk and streamline the process. That often means lower costs and fewer surprises.

Partner with the Best Custom Builder in Town!

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to building a home. Your block, your budget and your priorities will point you in the right direction. If you want quality, flexibility and a builder who gets your vision, a custom build is the smarter choice.

Prestige Homes and Granny Flats tick all the right boxes for people who want something more than just “standard.” Whether you're building a stylish granny flat or custom home, we work with you from sketch to handover. Our designs are customised to your block, your lifestyle and your taste.

Our team is known for delivering custom builds fast, without compromising on quality or detail. In many cases, you can be turning the key in under 12 weeks without cutting corners. That’s pretty rare in the custom home world.

So if you want a home that fits your life, not just your lot size. Book us and see how easy building custom can be when you’ve got the right team on your side.

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What Is a Granny Flat? Full Guide for Australian Homeowners

October 27, 2025

Granny flats are no longer just for grandparents. Across Australia, they’re being built as rental units, guest accommodation, or smart add-ons for multigenerational families. Climbing property prices and limited housing supply have made granny flats an attractive option for homeowners seeking flexibility and extra income. Before you build, there are legal and planning steps to navigate. Each state has its own council rules, and the approval process can feel overwhelming. Prestige Homes & Granny Flats provides practical guidance on paperwork, design, and construction, keeping your project organised and on track from the start. Before you start asking what granny flats are and how to build one, remember there are legal and planning steps to navigate. Each state has its own council rules, and the approval process can feel overwhelming. Prestige Homes & Granny Flats provides practical guidance on paperwork, design, and construction, keeping your project organised and on track from the start. What are Granny Flats? So what is a granny flat? The answer is simple. It’s a small, self-contained home built on the same block as a main residence. Think of it as a compact version of a regular house, usually including a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and one or two bedrooms. Most states cap their size at around 60 m², though exact limits vary. In Queensland, they’re often called “secondary dwellings,” while in Victoria, you’ll hear “dependent person’s unit.” No matter the name, the idea is the same: extra living space with independence built in. What Are Granny Flats Called in Perth? Across Perth and the wider WA region, granny flats are formally classified as “ancillary dwellings” under local council planning regulations. They’re permitted on most residential-zoned blocks that meet the minimum land size, with a maximum floor area of up to 70 m². A major difference in WA is who can occupy them. Since 2015, Perth’s rules have allowed ancillary dwellings to be rented to non-family members, giving homeowners more flexibility for rental income or family use. Councils such as the City of Perth, City of Stirling, and City of Joondalup apply these state planning guidelines, though it’s always worth checking your local council’s requirements before starting. In Perth, granny flats can take several forms. They may be built as a detached unit, joined to the main house, or created by converting existing structures like garages. This flexibility makes them an appealing way to add space, boost property value, or create rental income without leaving your current suburb. What Is Granny Flat: Legal and Planning Rules You Need to Know To fully understand what granny flats are, you also need to follow council regulations that vary from state to state. Zoning and Land Use Your block must be in the correct residential zone to allow an ancillary dwelling. Perth councils set these rules, so it’s important to confirm land use requirements before drawing up plans. Size Limits & Design In most parts of Australia, granny flats are limited to 60 m². In Perth and wider WA, ancillary dwellings can be up to 70 m², provided they meet council design codes for height, setbacks, and appearance. Approval Processes Some states require both planning and building permits, while others fast-track approval if certain criteria are met. In WA, approvals generally move faster when plans follow the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) . Rental & Occupancy Rules Unlike some states, Perth homeowners can lease ancillary dwellings to non-family members. Since the 2015 policy change, this flexibility has allowed granny flats to serve as either rental income properties or extra family space.

Step-by-Step Custom Home Build Checklist

October 24, 2025

Building your own custom home in Australia is exciting, but it can sometimes feel like you’ve got a lot on your plate. From design choices and council approvals to budgets and timelines, there are plenty of moving parts that can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why having a clear checklist is important. We’ll guide you through the key steps in building a custom home checklist. Whether it is your first build or an upgrade to suit your lifestyle, our team helps you stay organised and confident right through to the final handover. Building a Custom Home Checklist Think of a custom home checklist as your blueprint for staying organised. It turns the chaos of construction into a sequence of manageable steps. Without a checklist, you could face delays, unexpected costs and unnecessary stress. A detailed custom home build checklist ensures a smooth, cost-effective and worry-free build. It’s not just for first-time owners either. Even seasoned homeowners upgrading to a custom space benefit from a structured approach that keeps the build on track and aligned with their vision.