Brighter And some

Building a home: What does it cost and how can you weather-proof it?

by Kate Watt, Marketing Manager 3 March 2022

If there is one thing the Aussie summer has continued to remind us it’s that we can’t control the weather. Fires, cyclones and - most recently - floods have put many homes to the ultimate test.

So how do you build a home to withstand some of mother nature’s most extreme weather conditions?

Clever scientists and architects have joined forces through Suncorp’s One House initiative to design a home that can withstand floods, fires and cyclones.

The results of their research have produced the ultimate weather-tight home. Think future minimalist meets above-ground bunker with some creature comforts thrown in. They have also produced tips to weather-proof your own home, whether it’s a Queenslander, high-set or brick veneer classic.

So if you are about to build or renovate, it’s worth considering some weather proofing in your plans.

Meanwhile, what does it cost to build your dream home these days? COVID has seen some materials – particularly timber – sky rocket in price. Many other factors also determine building costs including location, the size of house, its style and quality of finishes.

But for a rough rule-of-thumb, check out these price guides from Property Update:

A budget-style, basic home:

  • From $160,000 for a 3-bedroom home and from $190,000 for a 4-bedroom home. For a turnkey package, add approximately $18-20,000.

A standard home:

  • From $180,000 for a 3-bedroom home and from $200,000 for a 4-bedroom home. For a turnkey package, add approximately $20-22,000.

A premium, higher end home:

  • From $200,000 for a 3-bedroom home and from $220,000 for a 4-bedroom home. For a turnkey package, add approximately $22-25,000.

Adding an additional story can add around $80-100,000 to the cost of construction.

Need a new roof over your head? View our current listings for sale or check our listings for rent.