If you’re thinking about a new home, you might be wondering whether to build or buy. There are plenty of advantages to a new build, not least of which is it’s a blank space you can fill with your own memories, rather than worrying about anyone else’s. And if you’re building an investment, consider this.
Building a house in Brisbane usually costs between $3000 and $5500 per square metre, meaning an average Brisbane home spanning 226 square metres could range from $633,080 to $1,119,195.
Here at BESA, we specialise in custom-builds ranging from $2500 to $3500 per square metre, giving you a luxury experience at a competitive price compared to the industry norm.
But we want to give you the best overview possible to help you make a decision, so we’ll explore the average costs of building homes of various sizes in Brisbane to help you plan your budget effectively.
There are plenty of costs involved in a new build, so let’s break down some of the big ones that will shape your new build.
Architect-designed custom homes cost much more than standard project homes. However, the higher price tags come with some great perks, since custom home builds give you complete control and personalisation opportunities. Additionally, you’ll set the quality benchmark from the start, rather than retrofitting upgrades which can come with hidden costs.
Project homes, on the other hand, often use older designs, which makes them more economical options. You’ll face limited flexibility, with set floor plans that might not be well suited to your lifestyle and preferences. They’re also generally designed to suit flat, standard-sized lots, which can really limit your options and exclude many of Brisbane’s hilly suburbs. And when it comes time to sell, project homes often find it difficult to stand out in a saturated market with near-identical layouts, whereas a custom home adds long-term value and unique street appeal.
Ultimately, the main difference comes down to this. A custom home with BESA begins by focusing on your lifestyle and is designed around it, while a project home will always require you to make some compromises.
Your biggest expense will likely be construction, and costs change based on quality. Standard builds run $2,200–$3,000 per square metre, while luxury homes can cost over $5,000 per square metre.
But this is just one area where working with an experienced custom builder like BESA can make all the difference. Building costs can quickly spiral out of control without an expert controlling everything from the beginning. That’s why we only partner with trusted local suppliers and contractors to make sure you’re getting the best products at the best price.
Land prices can take up a lot of your budget, so factor them in from the start. Keep in mind that a complex or an unusual block might look impossible to work with, but the team at BESA loves a challenge. We know how to turn those complicated or sloping blocks into something truly original you can be proud of.
Professional and council fees are something to keep in mind when budgeting for a new home build. Both will depend on your construction costs and the development’s value.
Your choice of finishes has the biggest effect on your final building cost. Common inclusions that change pricing include:
BESA makes these choices easy. You’ll get access to our comprehensive interior design service, including digital mood boards, tailored design images, and material samples, so you can see and feel every available option. Our unique level of flexibility gives your home the right finishing touch that fits your vision and your budget.
Most experts suggest setting aside 5-10% of your total budget for surprises. Risky projects might need up to 20%. This safety net covers unexpected issues like drainage problems, weather delays, or necessary upgrades during construction.
The choice to add another storey really depends on your needs. Here at BESA, our custom build expertise means we can add additional levels from $500 per square metre, giving you double the space to customise and tailor to your lifestyle.
You might see figures floating around that break down new build costs by bedroom, but it’s important to remember that these are industry standard rates, and BESA is anything but standard.
Our designers take the time to hear your vision before coming up with a custom home tailored to your needs, whether that’s 2, 3, or 4 bedrooms. We’ve even helped clients get the 5-bedroom homes they’ve always dreamed of with smaller 300sqm blocks!
A recent Domain report found that energy-efficient homes in Brisbane get nearly 20% more views online and can fetch higher price tags compared to non-efficient homes. Those green homes might cost more upfront, but should eventually pay for themselves through lower energy bills. Eco-friendly features homeowners are looking for include proper orientation, thermal insulation, ceiling fans, and renewable energy systems like solar panels.
Picking the right builder to tackle your project can be just as important as setting your budget. BESA’s unique combination of transparency, flexibility, and quality means we don’t just work for you, but with you to create the home of your dreams.
Working with a local Brisbane builder like BESA is the best way to get knowledge about the unique landscape and common problems. We know council regulations, understand climate factors, and can handle common construction challenges in the area. Our deep local experience means we can spot potential problems early, meaning fewer surprise delays and cost overruns throughout your project.
Look past the bottom line when you evaluate quotes. Ask for detailed documentation that shows materials, labour, and other possible costs. Price matters, but make sure quotes cover the same scope of work, materials, and timelines.
Check the builder’s reputation through online reviews, past projects, and client references, since not every quote can be relied upon. Unlike some other custom builders, our unique blend of market expertise and local industry knowledge means we can guarantee accurate quotes with no hidden fees. That’s the BESA difference
Good planning and communication help prevent common problems. At BESA, we believe in total transparency, and it’s why we set clear expectations about timelines, payment schedules, and change management from the start. If you have any questions or new ideas along the way, we’ll be available for you to contact directly throughout the journey.
Building a family home or a premium residence in Brisbane becomes easier when you understand the costs involved. Working with a local builder like BESA gives you the best chance from the beginning, since we know what to look out for to give you the most accurate overview. To get an accurate, customised quote that matches your building goals, talk to our expert team today.
