What to Check Before Signing a House and Land Package Contract

What to Check Before Signing a House and Land Package Contract

Buying a house and land package can be an exciting way to secure a brand-new home tailored to your lifestyle — but before you sign the contract, it’s important to know exactly what you’re agreeing to.

I’ve seen too many buyers rush in without understanding the fine print, and it can lead to costly surprises down the track. So here’s what I always tell my clients to check before signing a house and land package contract.

1. Understand the Contract Type

Most house and land packages involve two separate contracts — one for the land and one for the build. ✅ Land Contract: covers the purchase of the land. ✅ Building Contract: outlines construction costs, inclusions, and timelines.

Make sure you understand both contracts clearly — especially if the builder uses a fixed-price or cost-plus arrangement.

2. Review the Inclusions List

The advertised “from” price can be misleading. Always double-check what’s included in your build price:

Flooring, fencing, and driveways

Kitchen and bathroom finishes

Air conditioning, lighting, and power points

Landscaping and site preparation

What looks like a good deal can quickly blow out once you add in all the “optional extras.”

3. Check Site Costs and Variations

Site costs are one of the most common areas where buyers get caught off guard. If the block needs leveling or additional soil work, it can add thousands to your budget. Ask your builder for a fixed-site-cost agreement to protect yourself from variations later on.

4. Confirm Build Timeframes and Guarantees

Understand the build timeline and what happens if there are delays. Look for:

A clear construction schedule

Liquidated damages clauses for delays

Builder warranty and defect period after completion

A good builder will stand by their timelines and workmanship.

5. Only Work with Reputable Builders

I only partner with reputable, licensed, and insured builders in the states I serve. Every builder I work with has a proven track record for quality, transparency, and delivering on time. Before signing, still take the time to:

Verify their builder’s licence

Check Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) coverage (required in NSW for builds over $20,000)

Review previous projects or display homes

This ensures your investment is handled by professionals who meet high standards.

6. Get Legal and Financial Advice

Before signing anything, get your contracts reviewed by a solicitor or conveyancer. And from the finance side — I can help you understand how to structure your loan correctly for both land and construction, including progress payments and valuation stages.

The goal is to make sure your finance, builder, and settlement all line up smoothly so there are no delays or surprises.

7. Check Land Registration and Settlement Dates

If you’re buying in a new estate, check whether the land is already registered. Unregistered land can delay finance approval and push back your build start date. Knowing the registration and settlement timelines upfront helps you plan your finance and move-in dates properly.

Final Thoughts

A house and land package can be a great pathway to home ownership or your next investment property — but it pays to know exactly what you’re signing up for.

Before you commit, make sure you: ✅ Review inclusions and exclusions ✅ Confirm site costs and build timeframes ✅ Work with reputable, licensed builders ✅ Get legal and finance advice early

If you’re looking to secure a house and land package with confidence, reach out to Truth Group. I only partner with trusted builders and can help you navigate your finance options, review your contract, and ensure everything lines up for a smooth build and settlement.