Wondering exactly how long it’ll take to get from your first sketch to stepping into your dream home?

I get it-building a custom home is exciting, but the timeline can feel unclear. I’ve been through it countless times with clients here at Alternate Vision. Every custom build is different, but most projects in Australia fall within a similar timeframe of roughly 12 to 18 months. Let’s break it down month by month.

Months 1 to 3 – Dreaming and Designing

It all starts here. You’ll spend these first few months turning ideas into a solid plan. This involves sketches, drafts, meetings with architects, and making early decisions about layout, rooms, and features. During this stage, patience is key. You don’t want to rush; your design sets the stage for everything else.

One common mistake clients make at this stage-something I mention in my article about common mistakes in custom home projects-is not spending enough time on initial planning. If your foundation isn’t solid, you’ll face delays and headaches later.

Months 4 and 5 – Approvals and Permits

Once the plans are locked in, council approvals and permits become the main focus. In Australia, particularly around the Mornington Peninsula, council processes can vary. But generally, this takes 4 to 8 weeks. It might feel like things slow down here, but it’s essential work.

Make sure you factor in buffer time. As someone who’s gone through this process many times, trust me: paperwork delays are common. Double-checking submissions and staying proactive helps keep things on track.

Months 6 and 7 – Site Preparation and Foundations

With the green light from council, we break ground. Clearing your land, levelling the site, and laying foundations take centre stage. How smooth this goes often depends on your block. Easier blocks move quickly; tricky terrain takes more time.

I’ve written previously about things to consider when building on the Mornington Peninsula. Understanding your block is crucial to avoiding surprise delays.

Months 8 to 12 – Building the Structure

This stage is exciting because your home starts to visibly take shape. Framing, roofing, and installing windows and doors usually spans four to five months. Weather can influence this, particularly around coastal areas like ours, so flexibility is your friend.

One thing I’ve learned is always to be prepared for slight delays. It’s part of the journey. Checking in regularly with your builder ensures you’re always in the loop.

Months 13 and 14 – Internal Fit-Out

Walls, plumbing, electrical fittings, and insulation-this is when your house starts feeling like home. Decisions about finishes-floors, tiles, cabinetry-need to be made clearly and early. Changing your mind now can add weeks to your timeline, as pointed out by others who have gone through custom builds (here’s a useful read about typical timelines).

If you’re unsure about options, lean on your builder’s experience. My clients find that advice at this stage saves heaps of time and stress.

Months 15 and 16 – Fixtures, Finishes, and Landscaping

Your home now enters the final stretch. Fixtures like taps, appliances, lighting, and cabinetry go in. Outside, landscaping begins to frame your property beautifully.

Many underestimate landscaping and its timing. Allow enough lead time so your move-in feels truly complete. If you’re curious, another helpful article covers this in detail.

Months 17 and 18 – Final Inspections and Handover

This is it. We’ll conduct thorough inspections and make sure everything aligns with our quality standards. You’ll also have your own walkthrough, giving the final OK before keys are handed over. Usually, this takes a few weeks.

It’s a good idea to be picky at this stage. I’ve learned first-hand that being thorough now means fewer headaches later.

Ready to Start Your Custom Build?

The timeline from sketch to move-in typically runs around 18 months, but every journey is unique. If you’re looking to build your dream home on the Mornington Peninsula and need a clear, transparent partner, I’m here to help. Get in touch today, and let’s chat about making your custom home a reality.