Would you rather build in a new community or carve out your own space in a mature neighbourhood? Photo: Sunny Homes.
So, you’re ready to build your dream home – congratulations!
Plenty of work lies ahead, but before you whip out those planning papers, keep in mind that choosing where to build is about more than picking a block of land.
The community your property resides in is just as important and with new developments popping up every few years, the decision has never been more nuanced.
Consider this – would a blank canvas on Canberra’s outskirts suit, or should you embrace one of the city’s longer-loved suburbs instead?
While both options have plenty to offer, they can deliver very different experiences. If you’re putting in the time, money and effort to build something beautiful, it’s crucial to consider your lifestyle, daily routine and future needs.
Local craftsman Sunny Malhotra, owner of award-winning Sunny Homes, specialises in custom builds across the capital. He says greenfield developments garner excitement for a reason, but warns against rose-coloured glasses.
“Buying into a growing suburb such as Whitlam, Jacka, Strathnairn or Macnamara often costs less initially,” Sunny says.
“These places benefit from brand new, master-planned infrastructure and a focus on sustainable living.
“There’s also strong potential for the value of your property to grow as the area fills out.”
On the flip side, construction noise, roadworks and heavy vehicle traffic will be consistent for a few years.
Since houses are often built before the amenities that service them, early residents may need to drive to neighbouring suburbs for groceries, doctors’ appointments and outdoor recreation.
“Think about how close you want to be to work, where your kids will go to school and how your needs are likely to change in the next decade or so,” Sunny says.
“If waiting a few years for local shops to open turns you off, a new development probably isn’t for you.”
Older neighbourhoods have some solid pros, too.
Mature landscapes, established amenities and diverse communities years in the making mean your home will become part of the suburb’s fabric in no time.
You might pay a bit more from the outset, but according to Sunny, it’s often well worth the investment.
“Anyone looking for a big block should definitely focus their search on more developed areas,” he says.
“Tuggeranong, Woden Valley and Weston Creek are all good southern options. For the inner-north, I recommend Dickson, Turner or Watson and for inner-south, I’d suggest Narrabundah, Red Hill or Griffith.”
If your tastes fall outside of the newest areas, you’ll probably be organising a knockdown and rebuild. While this can be intimidating for first-timers, with the right help and a clear vision, you’ll end up with a forever home worth waiting for.
Sunny Homes recently wrapped up a single-storey knockdown rebuild in Kambah for a couple planning to grow their family.
Working within a 400 square-metre footprint, the home’s design focused on comfort and everyday practicality. It included a bright, open-plan living area, welcoming foyer and spacious garage that would double as a versatile storage and utility space.
“High ceilings, double glazing, quality insulation and carefully positioned windows all play a role in maintaining year-round comfort, while details like under-tile heating in the ensuite and a generous study make the home easy to live in from day one,” he says.
“With durable hybrid timber-look flooring and a Caesarstone kitchen softened by warm timber accents, the finished home feels modern, low maintenance and thoughtfully tailored to support the couple now and well into the future.”
Whether you choose a greenfield estate or an established suburb, the key is finding the right block and builder to match your long-term needs.
With the right planning, a new build can offer comfort, efficiency and liveability for years to come, no matter where you start.
For more information, visit Sunny Homes.
