If you’re thinking about building a new home, it’s natural to feel cautious. With talk about construction delays, cost blowouts and industry uncertainty, many buyers are unsure where to begin or if now is even the right time.
That’s why Ashbourne has teamed up with experienced, reliable builders offering quality house and land packages. These builders, G.J. Gardner Homes, Wattle Court, Kaplan Homes and Better Built Homes, aren’t just known for what they build, but how they support buyers along the way.
Whether you’re a first-home buyer, a growing family or simply want a fresh start, building doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right builder, it can be a smooth, straightforward experience.
Key Takeaways:
Worried building might be too hard or risky? Here’s what sets Ashbourne’s builder partners apart:
- Transparent pricing with upfront cost breakdowns and fewer surprises
- Reliable local builders you can trust from day one
- Support every step of the way with clear timelines, updates and post-build care
- Faster approvals thanks to their in-depth knowledge of Ashbourne’s guidelines
“We present all prices associated with their home in its entirety, to ensure that the customer is appropriately informed and armed right from the outset.” – Simon Curtis, G.J. Gardner Homes
House and land packages start from $945,000* with a mix of single and double storey options to suit different lifestyles.
As we’ve started collecting stories from the Ashbourne community about their building journey (more on this later!) a common theme is emerging: having the right builder for you makes all the difference. Future residents tell us the process feels simpler, more transparent, and far less stressful when they feel supported from the start.
Why buyers are hesitant and support matters
Building a home is a major investment, so feeling nervous is understandable. Buyers may wonder:
- Will my builder finish the job?
- Will the price I’ve been quoted suddenly change?
- What if something goes wrong after I move in?
The good news? These are the kinds of concerns our partner builders are well prepared to manage. Whether you’re relocating or building for the first time, you won’t have to figure it out on your own. Ashbourne’s builders offer:
- Clear timelines and upfront pricing
- Regular construction updates
- Dedicated contacts throughout the journey
- Site access at key stages
- Easy-to-use tools to track progress
And support doesn’t stop at handover. Each partner offers post-build support, that includes warranties, defect rectification, and direct lines of communication if you ever need help down the track.
Experience you can trust
Unlike buying an existing home, building is a relationship. You want to feel confident in the people you’re working with and supported throughout.
Each of Ashbourne’s builder partners brings something different to the table:
Trusted and transparent: G.J. Gardner Homes
With 15 years of experience across regional NSW and nine straight years as Australia’s #1 builder on ProductReview, G.J. Gardner Southern Highlands is known for structured processes, personalised experience and commitment to truly move-in ready homes.
“For us, it’s never about what’s easiest or most profitable. It’s about building a home that truly fits our customers’ lifestyle, a place they’ll love, grow in, and be proud of for years to come.” – Simon Curtis, General Manager at G.J. Gardner Homes Southern Highlands
Here for the long haul: Wattle Court
Wattle Court Southern Highlands stands as a testament to what it means to be a true local builder. Family-owned and operated by David O’Brien and his family, Wattle Court builds not only homes, but trust, connection, and long-term commitment within the Southern Highlands community. With a reputation for designing flexible and affordable homes, Wattle Court offers tailored solutions for every stage of life.
“Whether you’re looking to upsize, downsize, or create a one-of-a-kind custom build, our team walks alongside clients from the very first conversation to well after move-in day.” – David O’Brien, Managing Director at Wattle Court Southern Highlands
Commitment to craftsmanship: Better Built Homes
Recently named the Housing Industry Association (HIA) Most Professional Medium Builder in Australia, Better Built Homes delivers smart design, transparent pricing and third-party inspections to ensure quality from the start. They’ve also recently partnered with Homepay, allowing their clients to build now and pay later.
“If you want a quality home that withstands the test of time, then we’re definitely the builder of choice.” – James Harrod, Consultant at Better Built Homes
Personal and dependable: Kaplan Homes
With nearly 30 years’ experience, Kaplan Homes is a trusted family-owned builder offering flexible packages and guaranteed build times. Their approach is personal and centred on what matters most to each buyer.
“We enjoy what we do because it helps people get into their dream home. We listen to the client, ask them what’s really important to them, and work around those priorities.” – Tim Oakley, Building & Design Consultant at Kaplan Homes
These builders were selected not just for their exceptional track records, but for their approach. They understand people aren’t just looking for a house. They’re looking for clarity, confidence and a team they can trust with their future.
What’s on offer
Ashbourne’s builder partners offer upfront pricing on house and land packages, from $945,000 to $1.43 million, with lots from 450sqm to 894sqm and homes between 186sqm and 360sqm, including single- and double-storey options.^
Whether downsizing or building for a growing family, there’s a design to suit your lifestyle. All homes are move-in ready with quality inclusions and the option to upgrade or customise.
While pricing can vary depending on site-specific conditions and buyer requests, each builder provides clear quotes and transparency around potential cost variations to minimise surprises.
“We talk to the client, advise them of any delays or potential price increases along the way, so that they can be prepared for it.” – David O’Brien, Wattle Court
Partner builders are also familiar with Ashbourne’s Design Review Panel (DRP) requirements in more detail. While the DRP process still applies, their knowledge of the guidelines can help ensure your plans progress more smoothly, with fewer delays due to required amendments.
Build with confidence
In a market full of mixed messages, it’s easy to assume that building is “too hard” or “too risky.” But that doesn’t have to be your experience.
At Ashbourne, our builder partners are here to prove that with the right support, building can be straightforward, rewarding, and worthwhile.
And if you’re keen to take a look in person, keep an eye out! Ashbourne’s first display homes for some of these fantastic builders are just around the corner.
^ Subject to stock availability. Price as at time of publication and may change without notice. Price is based on the Builder’s standard plans and specifications, standard inclusions and preferred building surveyor. Final inclusions, design and price is subject to a signed building contract with the builder. Price excludes stamp duty, conveyancing costs and additional costs that may be incurred under the building contract or otherwise in relation to the purchase of land or construction of home. Ashbourne and the vendor, Prime Moss Vale Pty Ltd is only responsible for the land sale and does not make any representation nor accept any liability in relation to the construction of the home. Purchasers should rely on their own enquiries and the contract of sale.
