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There’s perhaps no bigger decision you’ll ever make than deciding on who to build your custom home with. To make the right choice, it helps to learn from history.
Understanding the background of home building, from the rise of custom home builders to the tech advancements in the construction industry, can help you avoid costly mistakes. Let’s find out how…
History Lesson #1: Off the Rack vs. Custom
Did you know that until recently, most people chose to extend or renovate instead of building new homes - or turned to large project home builders?
Then, about 15 years ago, the building industry saw a significant shift from renovations to new constructions.
So what changed?
Simple. The escalating costs of renovation meant knocking down and starting fresh became a more cost-effective option.
The end result has been the birth of the modern custom home builder, who focuses on creating entirely new homes designed to your specific needs instead of retrofitting old ones.
But despite what you may have been led to believe, not all custom home builders are cut from the same cloth.
For instance, watch out for builders who have a display home.
It originates from the project home space and generally suggests you’re more likely to end up with an off-the-rack solution with a variation on a standard designs.
There’s nothing wrong with that, however, if you want a builder who will collaborate with you to design a home that fully reflects your personal lifestyle, and budget - it’s probably not your best option.
History Lesson #2: Builders vs. Architects
Another shift that’s occurred is the gradual movement away from the reliance on architects toward builders taking the lead.
It’s not surprising, really.
While skilled in creating visually stunning designs, architects don’t always consider the practical cost of building, leading to the vast majority of homes they design never being built.
This has led to people opting for builders who integrate design and construction services, ensuring the home both looks great and is financially viable.
By making this decision from the outset, you’ll ensure your project is on solid ground - and that every dollar you invest in designing your dream home is going towards something that will become a reality.
History Lesson #3: The Rise of Technology in Home Building
Until recently, the building industry heavily relied on paper-based systems, which often led to inefficiencies and errors.
As technology has evolved, so have the methods of constructing homes. Digital tools, like sophisticated project management platforms, have revolutionised how builders plan, design, and build construction projects.
This has allowed for better collaboration between builders, clients, and subcontractors. Today, a builder who harnesses the power of technology is more likely to deliver projects on time, within budget, and with fewer errors.
History Lesson #4: The Importance of Skilled Labor
Decades ago, the construction industry had an abundance of skilled trades who passed their knowledge and expertise down through generations. However, in recent years, this has changed.
That’s why it’s important to work with a builder who maintains strong relationships with skilled tradespeople.
Choosing the right builder for your custom home requires an understanding of historical trends.
I know there are a lot of things to consider when you’re trying to find a builder you can trust—especially one that will see your home through from start to finish.
That’s why we’ve created our Metro Design Guide. Inside, you’ll find real examples of homes we’ve built, along with a clear overview of how our process works—so you can get a feel for what building with us is actually like.
It’s completely free and designed to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Download your copy below, or if you’re ready to take the next step, book a free consultation with our team and we’ll walk you through it personally.
