Talbot Homes – Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Do you build in my area?

We build throughout the Macedon Ranges, Daylesford–Hepburn region, Castlemaine, Kyneton, Gisborne, Trentham, Woodend, and surrounding Central Victorian towns. If you’re unsure, just send through your address and we’ll confirm.

What types of projects do you take on?

We specialise in custom new homes, country-style builds, Harkaway-inspired homes, and quality renovations and extensions. Every project is unique, and we work closely with you from concept to completion.

How do I start the process with Talbot Homes?

Most clients begin with our Project Brief and an Initial Consultation. This helps us understand your design goals, budget, land, and timeline so we can map out the right pathway forward.

Design, Planning & Approvals

Do you offer design services?

Yes. We support clients through design development, including concept plans, working drawings, engineering, energy reports, BAL assessments, and coordination with designers such as Caddick Designs and Better Building Design.

Can you work with plans I already have?

Absolutely. We’re happy to review existing plans, provide feasibility feedback, and guide you on buildability, cost alignment, and any changes needed before quoting.

Do you manage the building permit process?

Yes. We coordinate permits, planning overlays, engineering, soil tests, BAL ratings, septic approvals, and all documentation required for a compliant build start.

Pricing, Budget & Estimates

How much does a custom home cost?

Every custom home is different. We provide an Initial Ballpark Estimate followed by a Paid Estimation Process to produce a detailed fixed-price proposal. This ensures transparency before you commit.

Why is there a fee for your Fixed-Price Estimation?

This process involves trade pricing, engineering checks, material schedules, supplier quotes and internal costing. It ensures you receive a fully-detailed trade breakdown, not a guess. This protects your budget and prevents surprises once construction begins.

Can you build to a specific budget?

Yes. Budget alignment is a big part of our process. We guide clients through value management, smart selections, and structural options that maintain design intent while respecting your investment.

Construction

How long does it take to build a home?

A typical custom home takes 6–12 months, depending on size, site conditions, finishes, and Victorian weather (which keeps us on our toes). We’ll outline your expected timeline once drawings are finalised.

Who manages the build?

Mark Talbot (Registered Builder) and our site team manage every stage, supported by Charlene and our office team for admin, communication, and client updates.

Do you keep me updated during the build?

Yes. Through our client portal (Wunderbuild) you’ll receive updates, photos, selections, and progress payment milestones throughout the build.

Selections & Suppliers

Can I choose my own fixtures and finishes?

Absolutely. You can work with our trusted suppliers, bring your own ideas, or mix the two. We provide guidance on quality, price, and lead times to keep your build on track.

Do you work with Harkaway Homes?

Yes — we build and finish Harkaway Homes regularly and understand their inclusions, pre-construction requirements, and detailing.

Variations, Changes & Extras

Can I make changes during the build?

Yes. All changes are managed through a formal variation so you have full transparency on costs, timelines, and inclusions before approving anything.

What happens if I change my mind after approving a variation?

Once a variation is approved and materials are ordered or work has commenced, cancellation isn’t always possible. We’ll talk you through options depending on where the project is at.

Progress Payments & Contracts

What contract do you use?

We use the Master Builders Victoria New Homes Contract, suited to custom builds and renovation projects in our region.

How do progress payments work?

Payments follow the contract stages — such as Base/Slab, Frame, Lock-Up, Fixing, and Completion. Each stage is invoiced once completed, with photos provided for your records.

After Handover

Do you offer a maintenance period?

Yes. Every Talbot Homes project includes a 3-month maintenance period where we fix any settling-related items. You’ll receive a handover manual outlining all warranty contacts and care instructions.

What warranties are included?

All our homes come with mandatory Victorian Builder’s Warranty Insurance and product warranties for local suppliers, trades, appliances and fixtures.

General

Do you take on smaller jobs?

We focus on full builds and larger renovations/extensions. However, clients are welcome to ask — if it’s a good fit, we’ll let you know.

Do you offer financing or help with mortgage providers?

We don’t provide finance, but we regularly liaise with mortgage brokers and banks throughout the build and can CC them into progress claims if needed.

What makes Talbot Homes different?

We’re a local family builder who builds a small number of homes each year so we can give every client the attention they deserve. You’ll work directly with your builder, not a revolving door of supervisors.