Choose a section

Consider the location and value of prospective sections. Research the title and council files, checking for any legal restrictions on use of the section. Decide whether you need a professional valuation and/or survey. Get your lawyer to approve the sale and purchase agreement.

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• Buying a section

Organise your finances

Work out a budget and figure out how much you need to borrow. Approach the bank or other lending organisations to arrange a mortgage. Review your budget if necessary.

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• Money

Choose and brief the designer

There are different kinds of designers – conduct some research to work out which type will suit you best. Talk to a few candidates and make your choice. Work with them to come up with the design for your house. Gather ideas for materials, fixtures and fittings, and talk them through with your designer.

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• Design & architects
• Materials & features

Select a project manager

Decide whether to manage the project yourself or engage the architect, designer, main contractor or a professional project manager.

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• Project management

Choose the builder and other tradespeople

Make a shortlist of builders, and ask them for tenders and quotes. Make sure they can work within your deadlines. Choose the subcontractors.

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• Dealing with tradespeople

Organise the contract

Get a written contract from your builder, including details of their guarantee, insurance, payment schedules, and other importance issues.

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• The contract document

Get building and resource consents

Organise building and resource consents, if this hasn’t been done earlier.

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• Building consents
• Resource Consents

Construction begins ...

When building starts, keep an eye on progress, pay the bills and deal with any unexpected problems. Organise inspections by the Building Consent Authority. Be aware of safety issues at the building site.

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• The construction phase
• Health & Safety in Employment Act

Upon completion ...

Arrange the final inspection by the Building Consent Authority and apply for a code compliance certificate.

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• Building inspections
• Inspections for Building Code compliance

Tidy up loose ends

Make your own final inspection and liaise with the builder and council to resolve any outstanding issues.

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• Final stages of construction
• Sorting out problems

Consider landscaping

Think about options for landscaping, and research design features. Decide whether to use a professional landscaper or do it yourself. Get consents if necessary.

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• Landscaping