When you’re investing in something as important as your family home, it’s nice to know something about the builder you are entrusting your dream to. And to feel you share a connection (or at least have the same values of quality and integrity).
Although Troy Raulston is proud to have built more than forty stunning homes for families in and around Wagga Wagga and Junee over the past 20+ years, his start to life was far more humble. Keep reading to learn about the story that shaped Troy’s life and career as the areas most honest, organised, and meticulous designer builder.
Hardware Store HUMBLE BEGInNINGS
Like too many children, Troy was heartbroken when his parents separated. Albert Einstein famously said, “Adversity introduces a man to himself.” And Troy was forced to meet his inner man before his time.
Together with his sister and his mum, they struggled being raised in a housing commission home. “I remember the tough times, and I felt different to the other children. But it somehow made me stronger.”
Amidst the hardships, there was a glimmer of hope for the future. And it began when Troy was experimenting with timber offcuts while spending time with his father who worked at a hardware store.
Passion That Led To Purpose And Gave Birth To A Lifelong Profession
Troy developed his passion (and skills) making timber furniture in the school woodworking room every lunch hour. He felt proud of the things he was able to create and soon realised this was more than talent – it was a ticket to a better life. He remembers thinking, “If I can build this, maybe I can build other aspects of my life. Maybe I can go somewhere.”
Wise Words From An Awesome Aunty
Words matter. And the words his Auntie spoke breathed hope into his life. Lots of wise sayings including, “Work hard and save your money.” Troy listened and took action.
Rain, hail, and shine, Troy worked 6 days a week as a paper boy for 3 years during high school. He recalls, “The day Princess Diana died, the papers were so thick I had to go back to the paper shop 4 times because I couldn’t fit them on my bike.”
With persistent hard work and discipline, Troy managed to save $8,000 from his $25 a week wage and fist year apprentice carpenter wage. When the government offered a new First Home Buyer’s Scheme, he jumped at the chance to build his first home. It quickly sold for $250,000 and Troy knew he was onto something.
From Flipping Houses To Creating Family Futures
Troy spent the next ten years building and selling houses. He used his skills (and work ethic) to turn his tough upbringing into a career in house building.
As a married man and proud father of three boys (who cherishes spending his days off with his family), it was then that he realised he wasn’t merely building houses, he was helping to create futures for families. For Mums, Dads and kids just like his. And that’s when Raulston Family Homes was born.
Every Detail Designed And Built Especially For You
Troy stopped flipping common houses and became obsessed about building custom homes that reflect the individual style and personality of the families that would live in them.
Homes that enhance your lifestyle and form the foundation for a life of treasured memories. Homes that you feel proud to own and invite guests to enjoy with you. Homes that last decades without issues.
Exceeding Expectations
While other builders were cutting corners, Troy went the extra mile.
He did the 1% things that make or break a home.
Troy constantly looks for more ways to deliver more value for clients.
Total Transparent Truth
As Raulston Family Homes grew, Troy noticed the questionable things other building companies were doing to market their businesses. Many were advertising low prices to attract customers, and only telling them about all the exclusions and upgrades after they had signed a contract.
People didn’t realise they would need to pay tens of thousands extra for the premium tiles, stone benchtops, and luxury appliances they saw in the display homes they fell in love with. And on top of that, they needed to pay more for necessities like a driveway, fences, and air-conditioning.
Troy did the opposite by including everything in the contract (with all details including appliance models and precise specifications) so customers would know exactly what they were getting and how much it would cost – with no surprises.
Proven Processes That Ensure On Time Delivery Every Time
As Troy began to meet customers who had built before, he heard horror stories about blown budgets and timelines, substituted products, defects, and poor workmanship. He realised that not only are some builders dishonest, many are also disorganised.
Troy started to document every task – from design to delivery -- into repeatable processes that can be monitored for precise quality control. These processes are the backbone of the business, and the reason Raulston Family Homes is able to deliver stunning homes, on time and on budget every time.
A Building Experience You’ll Enjoy And Remember Fondly
Troy also discovered how stressful many people found their previous building experience. So he developed systems to help customers through every step of the process – from clarifying and refining their design ideas, to choosing all their selections.
And he implemented a communication system so you always know what’s happening and can get in touch with Troy directly if you ever have questions.
And Customers Love It. Here’s What Some Of Them Say About Their Experience Building Their Raulston Family Home
Kevin & Fran Jacobson
Kate Mulqueeny
Martin Tooth
Fred & Gabrielle Commins
