Some of the most prestigious blocks in Melbourne and other cities are elevated, offering sweeping views out across the cities or as pictured at our Chirnside Park site an incredible view out towards the Dandenongs.
So why are buyers a little wary of purchasing homes on sloping blocks?
1. Expected Costs of Building on a slope
The cost of building on a sloping block can vary depending on whether you are purchasing your home from a volume builder or a custom builder.
Volume builders have their own set of plans which quite often suit flat blocks. Altering their standard plans can prove challenging and as such some builders may prefer to cut & fill your block instead which can be costly.
Cutting and filling the block is where they will use machinery to excavate and fill the block at any given area to ensure a “flat” section on your block. This will then involve added retaining wall costs and excavation charges.
In most cases working closely with a Builder from the get go will ensure a design can be made to suit your budget and work in with the site.
2. Type of House design
The key is to create a design that works with the block and the fall across the Building envelope (not the whole site). This may entail designing a single storey home but set out over a number of split levels.
The advantage of this design is that whether you’re entering through the front door or the back door you’re entering at ground level, with no need for a retaining wall.
Our Tips for building on a sloped block
1. Choose the right builder & engage their help right from the initial design
You need a builder who has specific experience with sloping sites. When checking a prospective builder, ask to see some houses that were constructed on sloped sites – this will give you an idea of whether they are confident and skilled enough to build on your block.
Having your builder there throughout the design process will help guide you on any unexpected costs that may be associated with tricky sites/designs. Ensure you are upfront about the budget you want to stick to, that way the Builder can advise if they believe this is reasonable with the design and site in mind.
2. Orientation
Orientation is crucial in any build with regards to taking advantage of solar efficiency as well as views. With a North-facing block main living areas can face north. Sometimes with a South-facing block, the views and the orientation can be in conflict. Work with your designer to maximise the features of your block and minimise the faults. If the view is South-facing, there are ways to incorporate windows that allow a view, but not expansive glass panoramas that expose your home to the winter chills; keep in mind these windows may need to be double glazed.
3. Rock
Be aware that with a sloping block, soil depths are relatively shallow, so you are very likely to strike rock. After all, rock is what makes a hill. So you want your home design to reduce any unnecessary excavation. Work with the block, not against it.
4. Make it your own
As you work with your designer to create a plan for your home, keep the whole block in mind. A good builder will highlight a block’s opportunities. Consider how you will use the land: clothesline, access for trailer, wheelbarrow, and kids’ play area. You’re not building a house, you’re creating a home. A home doesn’t stop at the walls, it’s the boundary of your block of land. Tie it all together, and make moving around on it as convenient as possible.
And always remember to be upfront with the Builder and Designer about your budget – there’s no point letting a designer design a multimillion dollar property with a half a million budget.