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How to Avoid Budget Blowouts During Construction

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Blowing the budget is every home builder’s worst nightmare. What starts as an exciting dream can quickly turn into financial stress if cost planning isn’t handled properly. Fortunately, with the right strategy—and the right builder—you can avoid those all-too-common pitfalls and enjoy a smoother build from start to finish.

Step one: choose a builder who offers a fixed-price contract. At Raulston Family Homes, our contracts lock in costs upfront, so there are no unexpected surprises halfway through construction. We provide full clarity on site costs, permits, and standard inclusions. You won’t find vague “allowances” or open-ended provisional sums in our quotes. That means what you see is what you pay—plain and simple.

Step two: finalise your selections early. It might be tempting to leave some decisions until later, but each change you make during the build can add delays and dollars. Swapping floor tiles or reconfiguring a wall post-contract often comes with variation fees, labour rework, or material wastage. Our in-house design team works closely with you during the planning phase to finalise fixtures, colours, and layouts well before the slab is poured—saving you both time and money.

Step three: be realistic and plan for the unexpected. Even with the best planning, things like slight weather delays or minor upgrades may arise. We recommend setting aside a modest contingency buffer (5–10%) for peace of mind. That said, our team will always communicate clearly, so you’re never blindsided by unforeseen expenses.

Bonus tip: focus on value, not just price. Premium inclusions that offer long-term durability and low maintenance often pay off in the long run. Our Inclusions Book is packed with high-quality options that won’t blow your budget but will still elevate your home’s finish and function.

✅ Ready to stay in control of your budget?
Download our free Plans Book
Explore our cost-effective Inclusions Book
Start with the 7 Things Checklist

Build with confidence. Build with Raulston Family Homes.

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Troy Raulston

Troy is a dedicated builder and business owner whose journey began in his school’s woodworking room, where he honed his craft during every lunch hour. What started as a passion for creating timber furniture grew into a lifelong career, fueled by his profound skill and vision. Now, Troy is shaping his future by building not only furniture but a thriving business.

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