5 Common Mistakes Buyers Make with House and Land Packages

House and land packages can seem like the perfect deal — a brand-new home, modern design, and potential savings through government grants. But while these packages offer great opportunities, I’ve seen too many buyers make costly mistakes that could have been avoided with the right guidance.

At Truth Group, I help clients navigate these traps so they can secure the right property and financing with confidence.

1. Not Understanding What’s Included (and What’s Not)

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is assuming everything they see in the display home comes with the package. In reality, many builders exclude items like landscaping, fencing, driveways, or even floor coverings from the base price.

Before you sign, make sure you understand exactly what’s included in your contract and what’s considered an upgrade. I always encourage clients to request a detailed inclusions list and compare it with other builders before committing.

2. Choosing the Wrong Location for Long-Term Value

Many buyers focus on the house design but overlook the land’s location and future growth potential. A beautiful home in a poor location can hurt your long-term return.

When you work with Truth Group, I help you analyse the area’s infrastructure, population growth, and rental demand to ensure you’re investing in the right location — not just the right build.

3. Ignoring Site Costs and Hidden Fees

What looks like a low-cost deal can quickly escalate once site costs, soil testing, and council fees are added. Some builders advertise attractive prices only to add these later.

At Truth Group, I partner only with reputable builders across the states I serve, so my clients know their total costs upfront — no nasty surprises halfway through construction.

4. Not Getting the Right Finance Structure

Financing a house and land package isn’t the same as buying an existing home. It involves a construction loan, which is released in stages as your home is built. Many buyers don’t realise how this affects repayments and cash flow during the build.

As a mortgage broker and buyer’s agent, I structure your loan properly from day one — ensuring your payments fit your budget and that you’re not overpaying on interest or fees.

5. Skipping Professional Advice Before Signing

The most common and expensive mistake? Rushing to sign a contract without getting it properly reviewed. Builders’ contracts can be lengthy and full of technical details — once you’ve signed, it’s often too late to make changes or go back.

Before my clients sign anything, I always recommend having a qualified conveyancer or property lawyer go through the contract. They can check for hidden clauses, timelines, and conditions that could impact you later.

As part of my service, I review the details from a property and finance perspective, highlight potential risks, and connect you with trusted legal and conveyancing professionals if needed. This small step can save you thousands down the track — and ensure your purchase runs smoothly from start to finish.

Final Thoughts: Build Smart, Not Fast

A house and land package can be a fantastic way to enter the market or grow your property portfolio — if you do it right. The key is knowing what to look for and having the right people in your corner.

At Truth Group, I help home buyers and investors avoid common traps, select the right builder, and secure the right finance to support their long-term goals.

If you’re considering a house and land package and want to make sure you’re making the right move, reach out to Truth Group today — your trusted buyer’s agent and mortgage broker.