Custom homes
A process built around you. Not around us.
Most people come to us a little nervous. Maybe they've heard horror stories. Maybe they've already had a bad experience with another builder. Maybe they just don't know where to start.
That's exactly why we built our process the way we did.
At Saltwood, you'll know what's happening at every stage, what it costs before you commit, and who to call when you have a question. No guesswork. No nasty surprises. Just a clear path from first conversation to front door.
Here's what that looks like.
Step 02 — Design & Concept
Your home starts to take shape.
This is where it gets exciting. Working with our design team, we develop a concept that's tailored to your block, your lifestyle and your vision. We're not pulling a plan off a shelf — we're designing around you. We'll refine it together until it feels right, because getting this stage right is what makes everything that follows smoother.
Timeline snapshot
Step 01 — Initial Consultation
Let's talk first.
Before anything else, we sit down with you — properly. We want to understand what you're building, why you're building it, what your block looks like, and what your budget is working with. This is a conversation, not a sales pitch. If we're the right fit for each other, we'll both know it by the end.
No cost. No commitment. Just clarity.
Step 03 — Full Quote & Selections
The part that makes us different
Here's where Saltwood does things differently to most builders. Before we ask you to sign a single thing, we put together a complete, detailed quote — with your finishes, your fixtures, your selections included. What you see is a real number, not a base price with a long list of exclusions waiting to ambush you later.
Take your time with it. Ask every question. This is the stage where you should feel completely confident — and we won't move forward until you do.
Step 04 — Contract Signing
Now you're ready. So are we.
Once you're happy with the design and the quote, we formalise everything into a contract. By this point, there are no surprises left — you already know what you're getting and what you're paying. Signing is just the moment it all becomes official.
Then comes one of our clients' favourite parts — your Colour Appointment. This is where your home really starts to feel like yours. Together we'll work through all your colours and finishes — from tiles and tapware to cabinetry and paint. Everything included in your quote is already a great standard, but if you want to upgrade anything at this stage — a different tile, a premium tapware range, a feature finish — this is your moment to do it. No pressure, just options.
It's the fun part. We promise.
Timeline snapshot
From first conversation to front door — in as little as 7 to 9 months.
We know time matters. Whether you're in a lease that's ending, a family that's outgrown your current home, or an investor ready to move — we work to a timeline that's realistic, communicated clearly and managed properly from day one.
Once we break ground, our standard builds are completed in around 12–16 weeks, with more complex custom homes finishing in around 26 weeks. Factor in design, approvals and selections, and most of our clients are in their new home within 7 to 9 months of that first conversation.
The best time to ask questions is before you build!
Our initial consultation is free, relaxed and genuinely useful — whether you're ready to go or just starting to think about it. Come with questions. Leave with clarity.
