10 Questions to Ask Your Builder (Before You Sign the Contract)

Building a brand new home is one of the most exciting decisions you can make – but it’s also one of the biggest, with a lot of moving parts.

Knowing the right questions to ask before you begin can help you feel prepared, informed, and confident throughout the process.

This guide covers ten essential questions to ask any builder, so you can go into the process feeling empowered and supported, not overwhelmed.

1. How long have you been in business, and how many homes have you built?

Experience matters. A builder with a strong track record has weathered industry changes, refined their process, and delivered homes that stand the test of time. Look for one with years of know-how and thousands of completions under their belt. With over 20 years in the industry, Carlisle has built thousands of homes across Victoria – earning a reputation for consistency and care.

2. What does your base price include, and what costs extra?

It’s a simple question, but not every builder will give a straight answer. Make sure you know exactly what’s included in the advertised price, from flooring and lighting to driveways and landscaping, and what’s considered an upgrade. Transparent pricing is a cornerstone of Carlisle’s approach, giving you clarity from day one, not fine print surprises down the track.

3. Are site costs fixed or just estimated?

Site works can quickly derail your budget if not clearly defined. Ask whether your builder offers fixed pricing on essentials, such as earthworks, slab preparation, drainage, and council requirements, including temporary fencing. With Carlisle Homes’ comprehensive Fixed Site Costs, what’s quoted from day one is what you pay – simple as that.

4. What’s your average build timeline, and how will I be kept updated?

Delays can happen in any build, but good communication makes all the difference. Ask how long the builder typically takes from contract to keys, and how they’ll keep you informed throughout the journey. Carlisle keeps things clear with its online Carlisle Connect portal and a dedicated client liaison team to guide you at every step.

5. Can you help me find land that suits my home design?

If you’re still searching for the right block, a builder with strong land developer partnerships can be a game-changer. Through their estate networks and Sales Consultants, Carlisle can help you match your ideal home design with a well-positioned block, saving you time and simplifying the process.

6. What kind of customisation is available, and how does the process work?

A great home starts with a great floorplan, but it should also flex to fit your life. Ask your builder what customisations are possible during the design phase. With thousands of floorplan customisations available, Carlisle makes it easy to tailor your home to suit your family’s needs – whether that’s an extra bedroom, a second master suite, or a larger alfresco for year-round entertaining.

7. Can I visit your display homes, and are the finishes shown included?

Fall in love with a display home, but don’t assume every feature is included. Always ask what’s standard and what’s an upgrade. At Carlisle, display homes showcase a full range of quality inclusions, and Sales Consultants are happy to highlight which elements are part of the base fixed-price offer and which come at an additional cost.

8. Which suppliers and materials do you use?

From taps to tiles, ask your home builder about the brands and finishes that are included or on offer. Trusted names and solid partnerships mean better longevity, quality, and after-sales support. Carlisle partners with reputable suppliers, such as Caesarstone, Fisher & Paykel, and Hebel, to ensure your home is built with materials designed to last.

9. What warranties and aftercare services do you offer?

Beyond the handover, a good builder will stand by their work. Ask about the structural guarantee, as well as any service warranties for post-settlement support. That ongoing care is built into the Carlisle experience, with a 25-year structural guarantee and a detailed 100-point inspection carried out approximately three months after handover to identify and resolve any early issues.

10. Where can I see reviews or hear from recent customers?

Real reviews offer a glimpse into what the building experience is really like. Look for recent feedback and award recognition. Carlisle proudly shares verified reviews on their website and social media, and for the second year running, has been recognised in the 2025 ProductReview Awards as the winner of the Project Home Builder category.