Buyer guide / Victoria
How to read a house & land package price.
A price only makes sense alongside the exact lot, home specification and date it was prepared.
The quick read
- Identify the lot and facade behind the advertised figure.
- Ask for separate land, build, site-work and upgrade details in writing.
- Check allowances and timing before treating two prices as comparable.
01 / The reference
Which home and lot does it describe?
Write down the lot number, estate, home design, facade, plan version and date of the offer. Ask whether the image shows optional features. If one of these details changes, request an updated price rather than relying on the earlier figure.
02 / The scope
What sits inside the figure?
Request the land price and build price separately, plus a written list of site works, finishes, appliances, driveway, fencing, landscaping and any upgrades. A simple side-by-side list makes different offers easier to compare.
03 / Allowances
Which costs are still estimates?
Ask the builder to identify prime cost items and provisional sums. Consumer Affairs Victoria explains that these are estimates for selections or work that has not been finally specified or priced; the final amount can differ. Record what is fixed and what remains open.
04 / Timing
Is the land ready for the build?
Check the land title status and the proposed sequence for settlement, approvals and construction. Consumer Affairs Victoria notes that house-and-land arrangements generally involve separate land and building contracts. Review how their timing works together with independent advice.
05 / The written version
What changed since the advertisement?
Before making a decision, request current written pricing, inclusions, exclusions and any changes to the selected lot or design. Compare documents with the same date and specification, then have the relevant contracts reviewed by qualified advisers.
A practical guide to preparing questions, not legal, financial or building advice. Check the documents for your own property with qualified advisers before committing.