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Guide to Viewing Display Homes 

Posted on June 22, 2023 by - Planning your Home

Viewings are a crucial part of your home buying journey. From display models to open homes, firsthand experience helps you get a feel of space, finishes and styling so you can start envisioning your future home.  

However, as one of the earliest stages of home buying, viewings can be overwhelming as you adjust to seeing a home through the perspective of a buyer. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to viewing display homes so you’re ready for your next inspection.  

How do house viewings work? 

A display home viewing involves visiting a finished and furnishing home, that’s been constructed to predominantly model our design, features and quality. Our G.J. Gardner Homes’ displays are located across the country and open daily to grant our communities access to our homes.  

These homes showcase one of our home designs and are realistically styled to bring the home to life. Managed by our franchisees, our display homes give your insight into their building approach and are a testament to the quality their work. 

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How to prepare for viewing a display home? 

If you’re planning on viewing a G.J. Gardner Homes’ display, there are a few steps we recommend taking to get the most out of the experience.  

Do your research:  

Our friendly team and display home range give you an opportunity to explore our home designs and even take a virtual tour. By exploring our display homes, you can find the one most convenient and relevant for you. Before your visit, research floorplans and home designs generally to understand what home features you want to explore in person. This will help you known what questions to ask and help you gain context of the home building industry.  

Take your time:  

G.J. Gardner Homes’ displays have extensive opening times, so you can enjoy a calm and considered viewing. We encourage display home visitors to allow plenty of time to explore thoroughly. Take that time to envision how you would use the space and whether it meets your needs. With the help of our team, this experience is a time to begin the initial conversation of your home building journey and get started in learning from your local builder. 

Visualise your lifestyle:  

Display home viewings in person give you the opportunity to viscerally experience our homes and get a feel that’s more impactful than your screen can offer. We recommend using your visits as a time to imagine your life in this home, considering factors such as the layout, flow between rooms, storage options and overall functionality.  Envisioning your life in the space also helps you decide the features that don’t work for you or don’t match your style.  

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Take measurements:  

Our homes’ brochures feature in-depth measurements of your floorplans, and you can always reach out to our friendly team as well for more guidance. However, if you are viewing a display home, taking measurements can help you gain perspective of how certain dimensions actually feel. This gives you insight into dimensions beyond just a number on a floor plan.  

Consider the details: 

G.J. Gardner Homes have a range of home designs and finishes our clients can choose from. We recommend considering finishes, fixtures and materials so you’re more prepared to make these decisions when it comes to designing your home. This helps you learn what you like and maybe what you don’t – all through a hands-on experience. 

Ask questions:  

Don’t hesitate to ask our team any questions you may have, whether it’s customisation options, building stages or time frames. Our knowledgeable team will be able to answer any questions you might have and help support you during this process. 

Compare and contrast:  

We have endless display homes across the country, and sometimes there are even many in a convenient location. Research is such an important part of the home building journey, and we recommend visiting different display homes to get us much experience with homes as possible. Various options will help you make a more informed decision. 

Display homes near me 

If you’re reading to start exploring display homes, explore our wide range today to find the best options for you. Reach out to your local team for more insight into display home viewings.  

Investment Property Design 

Posted on July 14, 2023 by - Designing & Inspiration

Your investment property design offers the opportunity to improve your long-term financial position by enhancing the rental appeal, increasing property value and the quality of your tenants.  

From daily functionality to incorporating modern amenities, effective property design can make a significant impact on the success of your investment. By understanding market trends, tenant preferences and property objectives, you can transform your property into a sought-after space that generates long-term returns. 

Finding an investment property design to maximise returns

When it comes to investment property design, a thorough approach can help you yield higher returns overall. These initial design choices won’t only help you attract initial tenants, they can help minimise the cost of maintenance and keep your property popular long term.

Here are our tips to help you get started thinking about your investment property’s design:

Your target market

Understanding your target market is crucial for designing an investment property that appeals to tenants. Conduct thorough market research to identify the demographics, preferences and lifestyles of your potential renters. If your property is located in an urban area, consider modern and sleek designs that cater to young professionals. For family-oriented neighbourhoods, focus on creating functional and child-friendly spaces. By knowing your target market, you can tailor your design choices, colour palette and amenities to align with their preferences, ultimately attracting the right tenants and increasing your property’s rental potential.

Interior design of investment property option Yarraville 209.
Yarraville 209

Designing for functionality

A well-designed investment property priorities functionality. Consider the layout and flow of each space, ensuring that it caters to the needs of tenants. Open floor plans create a sense of spaciousness, while ample storage solutions minimize clutter. Incorporate practical features such as built-in shelving, organised laundry areas and versatile furniture arrangements. By designing for functionality, you create a property that tenants will find convenient and enjoyable to live in, increasing tenant satisfaction and retention. Design choices led by form and not function can end up requiring maintenance in the long run.

Understanding the area

Each area will have specific leading home design trends that have been influenced by the general demographics of the area. It’s important to have a strong grasp upon your location to know who your tenant will likely be and what their needs will be. Whether it’s families or students, knowing your area can play a crucial role in attracting potential tenants. Beyond demographics, your area likely has a neighbourhood aesthetic and it’s important to build an investment property that understands those architectural elements. Not only attract tenants in the area but it also sets a positive tone for their overall impression of the property.

Exterior design of investment property option Robina 131.
Robina 131

Creating an inviting interior

To make your investment property more appealing to tenants, focus on creating an inviting interior. Choose a neutral colour palette that provides a blank canvas for tenants to personalise whilst also creating a bright and airy atmosphere. When choosing your finishes, we recommend opting for durable and easy-to-maintain flooring materials that can withstand heavy foot traffic. You also want to pay attention to lighting fixtures to ensure adequate lighting and homely ambiance. Furnish the space with comfortable and stylish furniture that strikes a balance between practicality and aesthetics. By creating an inviting interior, you create a welcoming atmosphere that tenants will be excited to call home.

When building an investment property, it’s important to design an interior committed to durability and functionality. This could include the adoption of materials like:

  • Vinyl plank flooring: Vinyl plank flooring is a low-maintenance and affordable option that is also water-resistant. It is a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms because it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use.
  • White shaker cabinets: White shaker cabinets are a classic and timeless choice that will appeal to most tenants. They are also easy to keep clean, which is important in a rental property.
  • Frameless shower enclosures: Frameless shower enclosures are sleek and modern, and they give the illusion of more space. They are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a good choice for rental properties.
  • Quartz countertops: quartz is a durable and easy-to-maintain option for rental properties. As a man-made stone, it’s less expensive than natural stone whilst easy-to-maintain and easy to clean.

Get in touch

If you’re looking to invest in property through a new build, it’s important to find a design that’s going to let you reap all the rewards investment properties offer. Our G.J. Gardner Homes’ team is experienced in building to rent and knows the necessary design process needed to cater to your location and goals. Get in touch with our friendly team today to learn about property investments today.

Home Guarantee Scheme 2023 Explained

Posted on July 14, 2023 by - Cost to Build

The 2023/2024 federal budget has made new changes to the existing schemes and processes for financing a home across Australia. As the housing market stays a volatile place, especially for first time home buyers, these programs seek to help Australians enter the market and become homeowners.  

As of July 2023, the recent series of changes has combined multiple housing schemes under Home Guarantee Scheme. The scheme reduces the amount of deposit required to secure a home loan so home buyers can purchase a home sooner. Accessing these schemes could boost your chances of achieving your dream home but with only so many grants available and certain eligibility criteria to meet, it’s important to know how to navigate.  

As proud builders of first homes and family homes, G.J. Gardner Homes’ wants to support Australians during their home buying journey and the Home Guarantee Scheme is a tool that can help make accessing the home one step easier.  

What is the Home Guarantee Scheme 

The Home Guarantee Scheme 2023 is the latest iteration of the government program that helps first home buyers purchase a home with a deposit of as little as 5%. Administered by the National Housing Finance & Investment Corporation (NHFIC), the scheme offers three types of guarantees: 

  • First Home Guarantee (FHBG): This is the most popular type of guarantee and is available to eligible first home buyers who are purchasing a property in any location. The government will guarantee up to 15% of the value of the property, which means that you can purchase a home with a deposit of as little as 5%. 
  • Family Home Guarantee (FHG): This guarantee is available to single parents with at least one dependent child. The government will guarantee up to 18% of the value of the property, which means that you can purchase a home with a deposit of as little as 3%. 
  • Regional Home Guarantee (RHG): This guarantee is available to first home buyers who are purchasing a property in a regional area. The government will guarantee up to 25% of the value of the property, which means that you can purchase a home with a deposit of as little as 2%.  

The Home Guarantee Scheme 2023 is a great way to get into the property market with a smaller deposit. However, there are some eligibility criteria that you need to meet in order to access the scheme.  

These criteria include: 

  • You must be a first home buyer (or a single parent with at least one dependent child). 
  • You must have a combined income of less than $125,000 (or $180,000 if you are purchasing a property in a regional area). 
  • You must have a deposit of at least 5% (or 3% if you are applying for the Family Home Guarantee). 
  • You must meet the lending criteria of a participating lender. 

The Home Guarantee Scheme 2023 is a great way to get into the property market with a smaller deposit. However, it is important to note that the scheme is limited to a certain number of places each year. So, if you are interested in applying for the scheme, it is important to do so as early as possible. 

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What are the 2023 changes

The main changes involved in the latest Home Guarantee Scheme is the end of the New Home Guarantee (NHG) which means fewer spots are now available for these grants overall.   

The NHG had a similar premise to the ongoing home buying schemes with over 100 000 spots and a focus on new homes.  It was discontinued as part of the government’s wider attempts to stabilise the current housing market. As a successful scheme that helped to make home ownership more accessible for first home buyers, its end will likely shift the market’s conditions. Without the NHG, we can expect the initial cost of home ownership for first home buyers to increase, but it also likely reduces the current unprecedented demand for new homes.  

What does this mean for you? If you have the funds to make your first home purchase, you’ll now be dealing with less competition and demand in the new home industry.  

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The Family Home Guarantee scheme  

The Family Home Guarantee (FHG) is part of the HGS and is specifically designed to help single parents or legal guardians who are on low or middle incomes. It provides a guarantee for up to 18% of the value of a single parent’s home loan. This means that you can borrow more money with a smaller deposit, helping single parents to get into the property market sooner and avoid paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). 

The FHG is available for both first home buyers and previous homeowners, and on new builds and existing homes.   

How does the Home Guarantee Scheme work 

To access the Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS), you need to apply through a participating lender and follow the guidelines set by the NHFIC. The lender will assess your application and let you know if you are approved. 

Here are the steps on how to access the HGS: 

  • Find a participating lender. You can find a list of participating lenders on the NHFIC website. 
  • Speak to a lender about your eligibility. The lender will assess your eligibility for the HGS and let you know if you are eligible. 
  • Apply for the HGS. If you are eligible, you will need to apply for the HGS through the lender.
  • Provide documentation. You will need to provide documentation to support your application, such as your income statement, your tax return, and your Notice of Assessment. 
  • Then wait for approval. The lender will assess your application and let you know if you are approved. 

If you are approved for the HGS, you will be able to purchase a property with a deposit as low as 5%. This will make it much easier for you to get into the property market and start building your wealth. 

2023 Kitchen Design Trends

Posted on July 14, 2023 by - Designing & Inspiration

Our open plan home designs make kitchens the heart of the home to gather, cook and unwind. Our most recent design have embraced 2023’s leading kitchen design trends to create modern and stylish looks that you’ll love.  

From our growing emphasis on sustainability to our updated kitchen classics, 2023 has seen an array of exciting new trends dominating our kitchen designs. With the ultimate balance of form and function, our kitchen designs features refreshed and revived details for the perfect home design.  

This year, design trends have emphasised clean lines and fresh colourways to make our homes feel beautiful, airy and luxe. With the time we’re spending at home increasing, our home designs are looking more elevated and deluxe.  Discover our guide to 2023 kitchen design trends.

Kitchen Design Trends

Minimalism is a leading 2023 kitchen design trends.
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Modernised minimalism  

Our latest minimalist kitchen designs offer classic clean and sleek lines with a monochromatic colourway. The minimalist approach makes your kitchen clean and clutter-free from the foundation with white benches and black details. The simple classic look of a minimalist kitchen creates an enhanced functionality  

This 2023 kitchen design trend has taken inspiration from classic Scandinavian design, an approach that’s always committed to functionality. Black cabinetry minimises the looks of wear and tear whilst the minimalist look keeps this central part of your home clean and clear. 

Warm woods are a leading 2023 kitchen design trends.
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Warm woods and earth tones 

Another leading trend incorporates natural materials into kitchen designs, letting elegance seamlessly merge with practicality. With this design, nature takes centre stage through the likes of timbers, oaks and stone or even inspired by materials like vinyl.  

This trend has been designed to accommodate the busiest of families with the durability of natural materials. Discover an array of colours, washes and finishes to achieve an organic and warm feeling throughout this major hub of the home. By 2023, natural elements in the kitchen remain one of the leading kitchen design trends as Australians seek to incorporate soft and inviting elements into their home.  

Colourful cabinets are a leading 2023 kitchen design trends.
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Colourful cabinetry 

This year, colour is being infused into our kitchens after several years dedicated to white and sleek kitchen designs. Colourful cabinetry is the latest kitchen design trend that lets you incorporate bold and expressive hues into your living area. From dark navy blues to muted greens, colour cabinetry can energise your kitchen to make an immediate impact.  

The trend of jewel tones in the kitchen space steps out of the traditional kitchen designs to create a charming atmosphere. The colour in your kitchen becomes a focal point, capturing a sense of both style and spirit.  

White textures are a leading 2023 kitchen design trends.
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Textured white 

2023 has seen an update to the common design choice of pure white kitchens by adding the flair and intrigue of textures. Textured white cabinetry includes the likes of raised panel designs and textured finishes like tiled splashbacks.  

Textured white cabinetry offers a versatile canvas for personal expression and design flexibility. It effortlessly complements any interior style, from modern and minimalist to farmhouse-inspired or coastal chic. From vibrant backsplashes and elegant countertops to eye-catching fixtures, creating a visually balanced and harmonious look whilst maintaining that classic white look. 

Skylights are a leading 2023 kitchen design trends.
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Illuminated spaces

Natural light continues to be a force within the design world as Australians are interested in enjoying the benefits that come with light-filled spaces. The strategic use of skylights and carefully positioned windows create an inviting and uplifting ambience and has become a leading kitchen design trend.

The use of skylights over your kitchen maximises brightness in your kitchen and living space without taking up crucial wall space. If your home design allows for it, oversized wall windows or clerestory windows are another must-have in your kitchen design. Abundant daylight is an increasingly essential ingredient in the design to create a welcoming and energised space. 

Family-centric kitchens are a leading 2023 kitchen design trends.
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Family-centric kitchens 

As the kitchen continues to become the central gathering place for families, family-centric design is beginning to trend. These design approaches seeks to make the kitchen functional and comfortable for everyone by promoting a sense of connectivity and fostering meaningful interactions. 

This kitchen design trend seamlessly integrates the breakfast bar or low table into the overall kitchen layout, ensuring a harmonious flow between cooking, dining, and time together. Whether it’s a weekday meal or a special occasion, these family-centred kitchens nurture a sense of unity and create a welcoming atmosphere for all. 

Get in touch 

Looking to learn more about the latest kitchen design trends of 2023? Reach out to your local G.J. Gardner Homes office and our friendly team can take your through the leading materials, finishes and details in our current homes.  

Cost of Knockdown Rebuild 

Posted on July 26, 2023 by - Cost to Build

With a knockdown rebuild, you have the opportunity to achieve a new home while maintaining your location. From the demolition of your current structure to the creation of a stunning new home, we’re here to help you understand the unique cost of a knockdown rebuild so you can make a fresh start on the land your love. G.J. Gardner Homes are renowned for their knockdown rebuild projects and their expertise in custom home building.  

Our team of professionals work closely with you to understand your vision and bring it to life through a seamless and stress-free experience of knocking down and rebuilding. With G.J. Gardner Homes by your side, your knockdown rebuild becomes a positive experience that unlocks the true potential of your location.  

What is a knockdown rebuild? 

A knockdown rebuild is the process of demolishing an existing structure on a property, usually an older or outdated home and constructing a brand new one in its place. It offers homeowners the opportunity to start afresh and create their dream home without having to move to a new location. A knockdown rebuild allows for greater control over the design, layout, and features of the new home, providing the flexibility to customize it according to specific preferences and requirements. It is a popular option for those who love the location of their current property but wish to upgrade or modernize their living space. 

How much does a knockdown rebuild cost? 

The cost of a knockdown rebuild project can vary significantly based on various factors. A knockdown rebuild will likely involve higher upfront costs compared to just renovations or purchasing an existing property. This is due to the costs involved in demolition and then building. However, the benefit of a knockdown rebuild is that you achieve a brand-new home tailored to specific needs and preferences in the location you’ve long loved. G.J. Gardner Homes offer a fixed price scheme so you can know the overall cost of the project upfront and understand the investment involved. 

Think of knockdown rebuild as an alternative to land and home packages or the more economical alternative to buying a new home in your area. As property prices continue to rise, knockdown rebuilds let you stay in this coveted location but achieve an updated home that’s built custom to your needs. 

The major costs involved in knockdown rebuilds

Demolition and site preparation: The cost of demolishing the existing structure and preparing the site for construction can vary. It will be based off a range of factors such as the size and complexity of the demolition, accessibility of the site and any specific removal requirements. 

Design and construction costs: Our construction costs will depend on the size, design and complexity of the new home. Through our fixed prices and custom building, you can find a price that works with your budget and avoids overspending. 

Permitting and approval fees: Across the country, knockdown rebuilds require necessary permits and approvals from local governments. These fees can vary depending on the location and are essential to the project.  

Knockdown Rebuild vs. New Home 

The decision between a knockdown rebuild and building a new home from scratch depends on individual circumstances and considerations. A knockdown rebuild offers the advantage of preserving the existing property’s location. It eliminates the need for searching and purchasing a new property, potentially avoiding additional costs like stamp duty.  

Building a new home from scratch, on the other hand, provides the opportunity to choose a vacant lot in a desired location and have full control over every aspect of the design and construction process. 

The choice comes down to personal preferences, budget, time frame and the condition of the existing property. Our team can help evaluate your options and support you in reaching an informed decision that aligns with individual goals and requirements.  

Get in Touch 

To understand the costs involved in knockdown rebuilds in your specific area, reach out to your local office.  Our team can help provide tailored information to your location and situation. Start your knockdown rebuild journey today.