Home Building Podcast

LOOKING TO CUSTOM DESIGN & BUILD YOUR NEXT HOME? VISIT US ON INDEPENDENTBUILDINGADVICE.COM.AU 🏡

Most people get stung by hidden costs when building not because builders are dishonest, but because nobody told them what to look for upfront. Behan walks through every major hidden cost category you need to know before you sign anything. 

What you'll learn: 

• How builder quotes are structured - base price, itemised costs and site works 

• Why site works are provisional sums, not fixed quotes 

• How soil type affects your slab, footings and trenching 

• Wind ratings and when your home needs structural upgrades 

• BAL ratings Low, 12.5, 19, 29, 40 and Fire Zone and what each costs 

• When noise attenuation kicks in and what happens when it clashes with your BAL rating 

• The 7 Star NatHERS energy rating and what builders do to comply 

• Flooring, painting, blinds, air conditioning, landscaping and fencing with rough pricing 

• How price rises happen between your preliminary agreement and building contract 

• Why cost-plus contracts put all the risk on you 

Chapters:  

2:00 - Site works explained - provisional sums vs fixed quote  
3:15 - Connecting power, water and sewer - run-ins and trenching  
04:14 - Soil types - sand vs clay vs limestone  
05:09 - Wind ratings and structural upgrades  
07:33 - Soakwells  
09:10 - Retaining walls - brickwork, panel and post, limestone blocks  
12:24 - Why some builders underquote site works to win your business  
13:52 - Driveways, crossovers and verge responsibilities  
15:13 - Shire fees, building approval vs planning approval  
16:19 - Concrete pumps and scaffolding  
18:00 - BAL ratings and bushfire costs  
22:11 - Noise attenuation and when it clashes with BAL  
23:19 - 7 Star NatHERS energy rating  
25:33 - Fencing - costs  
27:38 - Flooring costs  
29:37 - Internal wall painting  
31:05 - Blinds and curtains  
32:37 - Air conditioning - kilowatts matter  
33:47 - Landscaping  
35:44 - Demolition  
36:09 - Kitchen appliances and specification  
37:35 - Price rises - preliminary agreements and building contracts  
40:26 - Cost-plus contracts - why all the risk sits with you 

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Most people don't think about home automation until it's too late when the walls are already closed and the wiring is done. In this episode, Behan sits down with Andy Moore lighting & home automations expert to break down what home automation actually is, how to use it to genuinely improve your everyday life, and the one critical decision you need to make during your build that will save you thousands down the track. From human centric lighting and sleep science to security, entertainment, and resale value this one covers it all. 

What you'll learn: 

• What human centric lighting is and how it affects your sleep, energy, and wellbeing 

• Why blue light at night is stopping you from sleeping well and how smart lighting fixes it 

• The difference between a system integrator and an electrician and why you need both 

• What "wall acne" is and how good automation design eliminates it 

• Practical examples of home automation that actually improve your daily life 

• Why cheap consumer automation products end up as electronic waste and what to use instead 

• The one thing to specify in a new build that future-proofs your automation for the life of the home 

• The best time to engage an integrator during your build process 

Chapters:  

01:30 - What is human centric lighting?  

02:04 - Circadian rhythm explained - how light regulates your sleep  
04:09 - Light and dark as a biological signal the simple version  
05:29 - Blue light, melatonin and why your evenings matter  
07:45 - Kelvin explained warm vs. cool light and what it means for your home  
10:24 - Why small automations have a big impact on how you feel at home  
12:04 - Back to the Future and the pitfalls of over-automation  
12:41 - What is a system integrator and why you need one  
14:08 - Everything that can be automated in a home  
15:55 - Wall acne explained the problem with too many control surfaces  
17:26 - How to control your automation apps, voice, wall panels and more  
19:09 - Practical examples: dinner parties, lighting scenes, music and ambience  
23:24 - Security automation alarms, sensor lights and peace of mind  
26:17 - Future-proofing your home: what to specify in a new build  
26:53 - The open protocol advantage why Connex/KNX keeps your systems compatible 28:20 - Does home automation add resale value?  
30:29 - LED strip lighting as a starting point for any home  
32:00 - Wired vs. wireless why infrastructure matters  
34:00 - One-button automation: guests arriving, pool clean, music, lights all at once  
35:08 - Behan's tip: wait a month after moving in before commissioning your system  
37:24 - What does the future of home automation look like with AI?  
 

About Our Guest: Andy Moore is a lighting and home automation specialist with over 20 years of industry experience. Based in Melbourne, Andy works has a deep background in lighting control, human centric lighting, and building automation systems. He works with the Index Association and specialises in open protocol systems including KNX helping homeowners and builders future-proof their homes with automation that lasts the life of the building. 

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One of the most common and costly mistakes people make is going too far down one path before realising it was the wrong one. In this solo episode, Behan breaks down the four main options available to Perth homeowners: buying established, renovating, extending, and knockdown rebuild. He cuts through the noise with real costs, honest advice, and a simple rule of thumb that could save you tens of thousands before you spend a cent on a designer. 

What you'll learn: 

• The difference between renovating, extending, and a knockdown rebuild clearly defined 

• When buying established is actually the smartest move (and when it isn't) 

• Real renovation costs: kitchens, bathrooms, painting, wall removals what to budget 

• Why the thing that frustrates you about a house today will frustrate you a lot more in five years 

• When extending makes sense and when it's throwing good money after bad 

• Why extending costs more per square metre than building new, and how to get better value if you do extend 

• The 50–60% rule: the tipping point where demolishing and rebuilding wins 

• The Mr. Squiggle analogy why working around an existing structure is so much harder than a blank canvas 

• Why a builder who only does new homes will tell you to knock down, and a renovator will tell you to extend and why you need independent advice instead 

• How IBA's free quiz helps you figure out the right path in about 10 minutes 

• Why demolition costs roughly $23,000 and why that's often cheaper than you think 

 What you’ll learn:  

01:20 - Who this episode is for: owner occupiers, not investors 

01:48 - The dream scenario: buying established and doing nothing 

02:41 - Buying established with minor work: real renovation costs 

03:49 - Kitchen & bathroom costs: what to realistically budget 

04:29 - When buying established is the right move 

05:11 - The lifestyle triggers that push people to move: kids, teenagers, downsizing 

05:51 - When should you extend instead of buy? 

07:14 - Extending: when it makes financial sense 

07:48 - Preserving older homes - California bungalows and good bones 

08:34 - Why extending costs more per square metre than building new 

09:17 - Living in the home during an extension - tips to manage it 

10:10 - The 50–60% rule: when to stop extending and start again 

10:51 - Block position, house placement & what to look out for 

11:14 - Don't spend $20K on design before getting independent advice 

11:38 - Why biased advice from builders and renovators costs you 

12:07 - Knockdown & rebuild: demolition costs and what you gain 

14:02 - Sloping blocks: when extending wins over knockdown 

14:15 - IBA's free obligation-free advice come out and chat 

14:32 - Final thoughts: get a feel for the market first, then decide 

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Most people have no idea what modular construction actually is or how good it's gotten. In this episode, Behan sits down with Natalie Lawrence and Dan Thake from MIRA Residential to bust the myths around modular building, explain how the whole process works from factory to front door, and help you figure out whether it could be the smartest way to build your next home especially if you're building in regional or rural WA. 

Chapters:

• What you’ll learn: What modular construction actually is and how it differs from traditional building 

• How a home is built in a factory, split into modules, and reassembled on your block 

• Why modular can be a no-brainer for regional and rural builds and what the real cost comparison looks like 

• The two delivery methods jacking vs. crane and when each is used 

• How site access, block slope, and soil conditions are assessed before a single thing is built 

• Why modular build times (average 12 weeks manufacture + 2 weeks on site) are changing the game 

• The truth about steel frame vs. brick quality, energy efficiency, sound, and cyclone ratings 

• What's included as standard in a MIRA home and why stone benchtops come standard 

• The difference between choosing a standard design and going fully custom 

• Why raking ceilings and skylights are actually cheaper to achieve in modular 

• The full pre-construction to handover process, step by step. 

Chapters:  

01:36 The McNally Group who's behind MIRA? 

02:30 How a modular home is built: factory to site 

03:28 Real client example: 12 weeks build, 2 week install 

05:19 Sloping blocks & steel frame chassis explained 

06:22 Site visits, local trades & due diligence before contracts 

10:36 Does modular work in metro Perth? Budget & access considerations 

11:29 Regional builds: why modular wins on cost, time & trade availability 

14:32 Guaranteed timelines and why MIRA has to hit them 

15:14 The step-by-step process: from enquiry to key handover 

18:27 Total build timeline: 9–12 months all up 

19:38 Granny flats & ancillary dwellings in modular 

20:33 What "quality" really means craftsmanship AND stone benchtops as standard 

21:13 Steel frame vs. brick: the Japan earthquake test, energy ratings & sound 

24:22 Why Perth is one of the last places still obsessed with brick 

25:26 Standard designs vs. custom over 20 base models to choose from 

27:07 How to approach a custom modular design 

27:41 Designing for modular: max sizes, module widths & transport constraints 

30:40 Ducted air con, raking ceilings & skylights in modular 

31:18 Ceiling height, skylights & the wow factor 

About Our Guest  

Natalie Lawrence is the General Manager of MIRA Residential, backed by the McNally Group a major WA contracting and infrastructure company with over 20 years of industry experience. Dan is MIRA Design Manager, bringing 15–16 years of residential and commercial design expertise. MIRA Residential specialises in high-quality modular homes delivered across WA, with a display home in Osborne Park. 

Get in touch with MIRA

Building costs are rising fast, and most people don't realise where the money is actually going or how much they could save with a bit of upfront planning. In this episode, Behan walks through the key strategies IBA uses with clients every day to keep builds on budget without cutting corners on the things that matter. From setting a two-number budget before you do anything else, to the hidden design decisions that can cost you tens of thousands, this is essential listening before you sign anything. 

What you’ll learn: What you'll learn: 

• Why you need two budget numbers before you start 

• What "price creep" is and how to stop it before it blows out your build 

• Why designing for your next life stage now saves a fortune in extensions later 

• The difference between fixed-price and cost-plus contracts  

• How your block's slope, location, and site conditions can quietly add $25,000–$70,000+ to your build 

• Why timing delays (planning approval, demolition, title issues) can trigger price increases... and how to protect yourself 

• The simple design rule that can save tens of thousands: keep your footprint square 

• Why standard window sizes save serious money, and when custom sizing is actually worth it 

• How wall construction choices affect your budget more than most people realise 

• Why energy-efficient design pays for itself and what happens when you get it wrong 

• How to avoid over-specifying branded fixtures early in the process 

• How IBA negotiates supplier discounts on appliances and fittings on your behalf 

Chapters:  

01:23 - Why saving money doesn't mean compromising your home 

02:52 - Part 1: The overview: how to approach your build process 

03:37 - Set two budget numbers before you do anything else 

06:58 - Price creep: what it is and how to stop it 

08:07 - Design for your current life stage AND the next one 

09:19 - Get your finance sorted first 

10:22 - Timing matters: building costs rise roughly 1% per month 

10:42 - Three ways to approach finding a builder 

12:03 - Why the cheapest quote is rarely the cheapest build 

13:50 - The risks of going through an architect without a budget guardrail 

16:10 - Why owner-builder sounds great but rarely works out 

18:21 - Fixed-price vs. cost-plus contracts: what you need to know 

20:34 - How IBA's builder comparison process works 

22:26 - Match the builder to your project type 

24:27 - Site costs: the hidden budget killers (slope, retaining, bushfire zones) 

26:10 - How delays during the build process cost you money 

29:43 - Part 2: Design & specification strategies 

30:18 - Keep your home's footprint simple and square 

31:40 - Windows: stick to standard sizes and save a fortune 

33:38 - Wall construction choices and what they really cost 

35:27 - Slab and footing differences: how site conditions affect this 

36:12 - Energy efficiency: design it right and save every year 

37:38 - Don't brand-specify fixtures early in the process 

39:44 - How builder supplier agreements work: and how IBA gets discounts fot clients 

42:06 - Flooring: supply it yourself and save 

47:43 - Kitchens and bathrooms: where to trim and where to spend 

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In life there a particular stage in life that you’ll be ready or need to build or buy a home. It’s important that you know when you might need to so you can best prepare yourself for what comes next.   
  
Some people buy. Some people build. It’s up truly to your situation. Our job is to best educate you, so you know how to have a better home building experience.  
  
We catch up with Domenic, one of our Client Advocates to discuss these 5 stages when eople build a home over a 2-part series.   

If you’re building, renovating, or even just thinking about it… this is one of the most practical conversations you’ll hear. 

What you’ll learn:  

• Why more adult kids are staying home and how to design for it without losing your privacy 

• Granny flats vs. dual-key designs vs. home extensions - what works best and when 

• The #1 mistake people make when they downsize (and how to avoid it) 

• Why "fewer rooms but bigger" is the golden rule for empty nesters 

• How to future-proof your home for accessibility - wider doors, lift shafts, step-free entries 

• Why your powder room should be off-limits to everyone who lives there 

• Smart multi-use room strategies so every space earns its keep 

• Caravan access, double garages, and storage planning for the grey nomad phase 

• How to think about resale at every stage so your home works for the next buyer too 

Chapters:  

00:49 - Stage 4: Adult kids still at home: the new reality 

02:35 - Granny flats vs. Extensions: costs, council rules & smart design 

06:14 - Dual-key homes explained: two houses under one roof 

08:10 - Privacy, house rules & honest conversations before you build 

10:19 - Designing for re-use once the kids eventually leave 

13:25 - Building new in this stage — layout tips for your "core living zone" 

16:10 - Stage 5: Downsizing & empty nesters 

17:10 - The biggest downsizing mistake: going too small 

18:48 - How to design a low-maintenance garden you'll actually love 

20:16 - Fewer rooms, bigger spaces — the empty nester design rule 

22:21 - Wider doors, lift shafts & wheelchair-ready design 

25:07 - Garages, storage & caravan access for the grey nomad lifestyle 

28:41 - Making your home a destination for grandkids & family 

30:20 - Two-storey downsizing: master downstairs, lift shaft prep 

32:18 - The powder room rule that keeps your home guest-ready always 

33:33 -  Recap of all 5 life stages 

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In life there a particular stages in life that you’ll be ready or need to build or buy a home. It’s important that you know when you might need to so you can best prepare yourself for what comes next.  
 
Some people buy. Some people build. It’s really up to yours situation. Our job is to best educate you, so you know how to have a better home building experience. 
 
We catch up with Domenic, one of our Client Advocates to discuss these 5 stages people building a home over a 2-part series.  

If you’re building, renovating, or even just thinking about it… this is one of the most practical conversations you’ll hear. 

What you’ll learn:  

• Why most first home buyers design the wrong type of home  

• How starting a family should completely change your layout decisions  

• The biggest design mistakes parents make (and only realise later)  

• How to position bedrooms for safety, comfort, and practicality  

• Why kitchen placement is more important than you think  

• How to design living spaces so you can actually supervise kids  

• The smart way to plan for teenagers before they get there  

• How to create separation in your home without losing connection  

• The concept of designing for your current stage + next stage  

• Simple design decisions that will save you years of frustration 

Chapters:  

00:25 – Why life stage should drive your home design 
01:30 – Dom’s background in design, sales & real estate 
03:00 – Consulting vs “selling” in the building industry 
04:35 – The 5 key life stages in home design 
05:10 – First home buyers: just getting into the market 
07:45 – Why first home buyers are changing (and getting older) 
10:40 – Starting a family: what actually matters in your layout 
11:50 – Bedroom positioning (master vs kids rooms) 
13:30 – Open living, visibility & supervising kids 
15:00 – Kitchen placement and why it’s the centre of the home 
16:40 – Designing spaces for toys, mess & real life 
18:00 – Planning for your next stage (not just now) 
19:00 – Double storey homes: what most people get wrong 
22:30 – Laundry placement debate (kitchen vs mudroom) 
25:00 – Thinking through real-life scenarios before you build 
28:30 – Growing families: when kids become teenagers 
29:30 – Why separation becomes important 
30:15 – Creating spaces your kids actually want to use 
32:00 – Two-storey design ideas for older kids 
34:00 – Backyard design, pools & entertaining 
36:00 – Indoor-outdoor flow that actually works 
38:00 – Study spaces vs bedrooms for kids 
40:00 – Designing for long-term flexibility 

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In this episode, Behan from Independent Building Advice tackles one of the most common questions in the current Perth building market: should you build now, or wait? With global uncertainty rising interest rates, inflation, supply chain pressures, and an upcoming election many people are sitting on the fence. Behan cuts through the noise, sharing how to stress-test your budget, understand hidden building costs, navigate fixed-price versus provisional sum contracts, and why Perth’s property and building prices are unlikely to reverse. If you’re unsure whether now is the right time to build, this episode will help you make a clearer, more confident decision. 

What you’ll learn:  

• How global uncertainty, war, inflation, and interest rate changes, affects your decision to build in Perth right now 

• Why stress-testing your budget against higher interest rate scenarios is essential before you commit to any build 

• The real cost of waiting: why Perth building prices are rising approximately 1.5% per month and how that compounds fast 

• What hidden costs to watch out for in your building contract, including provisional allowances for flooring, painting, and finishes 

• How global supply chain disruptions are pushing up material costs and putting pressure on both builders and buyers 

• The difference between fixed-price contract items and provisional sums and what your builder owes you in transparency 

• Why Perth property prices are unlikely to drop, and what the market’s strong growth trajectory tells us about timing 

• Behan’s three-number budget planning framework: what you’d love to spend, what you’re comfortable with, and your absolute maximum 

Chapters:  

00:25 – Current Market Concerns: War, Inflation & Uncertainty 

00:42 – Why Independent Building Advice Matters Now 

01:21 – Should You Wait for the Market to Settle? 

01:48 – Buffering for Interest Rate Changes 

02:13 – Stress-Testing Your Budget 

02:40 – Staying Within Your Means 

03:07 – Creating a Game Plan Before You Buy 

03:29 – Mortgage Comfort & Life Planning 

03:57 – Can You Predict the Property Market? 

04:30 – Perth’s Property Market Revival 

04:59 – The Long-Term Property Mindset 

05:31 – Planning for the Long Term, Not the Short Term 

06:33 – Hidden Costs in Building 

07:29 – Global Supply Chains & Building Material Costs 

09:03 – How Supply Pressures Affect Your Build Price 

09:44 – Are Perth Builders Still Profitable? 

10:14 – The Risk of Taking on Too Many Projects 

11:01 – Pricing Strategy: Allowing for Cost Increases 

11:35 – Fixed Price vs Provisional Sum Contracts 

12:32 – What Builders Owe You in Transparency 

13:04 – Will Building Prices Ever Come Down? 

14:15 – Why Now Is the Right Time to Build 

14:44 – Perth Price Increases: What to Expect Month by Month 

15:25 – The Real Cost of Waiting 

16:12 – What Happens If You Keep Delaying? 

16:37 – What to Consider With Your Budget 

17:14 – How Delays Affect Your Borrowing Capacity 

18:13 – The Three-Number Budget Planning Framework 

19:22 – Should you get into the market? 

19:33 – Final Takeaway 

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In this special episode, Behan sits down with Sandra Ursino, a passionate community volunteer and key member of WA Charity Direct - a remarkable organisation that has distributed over $4.3 million to those in need across 20 years, run entirely by volunteers with zero paid staff. Sandra shares how the charity identifies individuals and small organisations that fall through the cracks of mainstream support, ensuring every single dollar donated reaches people who truly need it. From funding wheelchairs for isolated residents to supporting cancer survivors, grieving children, and young people managing diabetes, this conversation is a powerful reminder of what community-driven giving can achieve. 

What you’ll learn:  

• How WA Charity Direct operates with zero paid staff and 100% of donations going directly to people in need 

• Why individual stories matter and how a single electric wheelchair transformed one woman's isolated life 

• How the charity identifies and vets individuals and organisations through a rigorous pitch and review process 

• The surprising ways charities are helping people from books and reading glasses for the homeless to breakfast programs that fight isolation 

• How a three-time cancer survivor founded a charity to support families with the hidden financial costs of illness 

• Why a youth diabetes mentoring program funded by Charity Direct became self-sustaining within just one year 

• How 32 charities have been supported in just 5.5 years and how those charities now help each other  

• How to get involved with Charity Direct as a donor, volunteer, or charity seeking support 

Chapters:  

01:29 – About Charity Direct and Its Origins 
02:02 – How the Charity Works: Individual and Group Members 
03:03 – Financial Transparency: $4.3 Million Over 20 Years 
03:35 – Real Impact: The Electric Wheelchair Story 
05:24 – Finding People Who Need Help 
07:07 – 100% of Donations Go to Those in Need 
08:00 – Supporting Cancer Survivors and Their Families 
10:20 – Brave Children: Supporting Grieving Young People 
11:37 – Homeless Breakfast Programs and Fighting Isolation 
13:24 – The Ripple Effect of Giving 
14:26 – Diabetes Mentoring: A Youth Program That Grew Its Own Wings 
17:04 – The Charity Vetting and Selection Process 
18:35 – Books and Reading Glasses for the Homeless 
22:14 – 32 Charities Supported in 5.5 Years 
26:00 – Community Events and Charity Connections 
26:40 – How to Donate or Get Involved 

About Our Guest  

WA Charity Direct: https://wacharitydirect.com.au/ 

Think property investment stops at residential? Think again. 

In this episode, we sit down with commercial real estate specialist Jevan Singh to break down why commercial and residential property are two completely different asset classes and why understanding that distinction could change how you build long-term wealth. 

Jevan shares how savvy investors manufacture value through yield improvement, why commercial property is more stable than the residential boom-bust cycle, and what most landlords never realise until it's too late about property management. 

Whether you're a homeowner curious about your next move, or a business owner wondering if you should buy your own premises this one's worth your time. 

Chapters:  

• Why commercial and residential property are fundamentally different asset classes 

• How rental yield directly drives commercial property value (and how to use that to your advantage) 

• The difference between property management and asset management and why it costs landlords thousands 

• When it makes sense for a business owner to buy rather than lease their premises 

• The risks of commercial property that investors rarely talk about 

Timestamps 

3:05 How Jevan got into property & his academic background  

4:38 Setting the scene: residential vs commercial investing  

5:10 Why commercial & residential are different asset classes  

7:08 The natural investor journey and where commercial fits in  

8:22 Commercial property cycles vs residential boom-bust  

9:05 How to manufacture value through rental yield  

10:17 Who commercial property suits best  

31:44 Spotting commercial opportunity in industrial areas  

32:13 How Jevan works with clients end-to-end  

34:47 The real risks of commercial property  

36:38 Asset management vs property management the key difference  

39:39 Why the commercial PM industry is broken  

40:06 A real example: thousands lost through poor rent reviews  

42:11 The 10K Questions 

About Our Guest 

Jevan Singh is a commercial real estate specialist based in Perth, with academic backgrounds in real estate, law, and commerce. Originally from the UK, Jevan has spent over seven years in the Perth market helping business owners and investors navigate commercial property from acquisition and strategy through to active asset management. 

About Mortar and Soul 

Website 

Thinking about renovating or extending your home in 2026? 
Most homeowners assume adding space is the answer, but it’s often the most expensive and inefficient option. 

In this episode, we break down the real difference between renovations and extensions, why extensions blow out budgets, and how smart design thinking can completely transform your home without major structural changes. 

If you're planning to upgrade your home, this episode could save you tens of thousands. 

What you’ll learn:  

• The real difference between a renovation vs extension  

• Why extensions are far more expensive than people expect  

• How to maximise your current floorplan before building more  

• When it actually makes sense to extend  

• The biggest mistake homeowners make when planning upgrades  

• How to improve your home without major structural work 

Chapters:  

00:45 – Renovation vs Extension explained 
01:30 – Why structural changes drive costs up 
02:30 – The hidden inefficiencies of small jobs 
03:30 – Why adding one room can cost $120K+ 
05:30 – Why builders prefer bigger jobs 
06:30 – The smarter alternative: repurposing spaces 
08:00 – Real client example (no extension needed) 
10:00 – How to maximise your existing home 
11:30 – Energy efficiency considerations 
12:30 – Cost breakdown: kitchens, bathrooms, flooring 
14:00 – Living in your home during renovations 
16:00 – When you should just rebuild instead 

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Air conditioning is one of the most important systems in any home build, yet many homeowners don’t think about it until it’s too late. 

In this episode of the Home Building Podcast, we sit down with air-conditioning specialist Daniel Nazroo, director of Advanced Air WA, who has over 15 years of experience in the industry. 

We break down the most common types of residential air conditioning systems, including ducted reverse cycle, split systems, and evaporative cooling. Daniel explains how to choose the right system for your home, how sizing works, and why things like insulation, ceiling height, and zoning can dramatically affect performance and running costs. 

What you’ll learn 

• The most common air conditioning systems used in new homes 

• The difference between ducted reverse cycle and split systems 

• Why system sizing (kW capacity) is critical when designing a home 

• How zoning systems allow you to control airflow in different rooms 

• How inverter technology reduces energy usage and running costs 

• The role insulation, ventilation, and ceiling height play in system performance 

• Whether brand name air conditioners are worth the extra cost 

• Why regular maintenance is essential for long-term performance 

Chapters 

00:23 Why Air Conditioning Is Often Overlooked in New Builds 

01:10 Daniel’s Journey Into the HVAC Industry 

03:30 The Most Common Air Conditioning Systems in Homes 

04:30 What Is a Ducted Reverse Cycle System? 
06:00 Understanding Split Systems 
07:00 Evaporative Cooling Explained 
09:00 Why Ventilation and Airflow Matter 
10:30 Combining Different Air Conditioning Systems 
12:00 How Modern Systems Are Becoming More Efficient 
14:30 Smart Controllers and Zoning Systems 
17:30 How Inverter Technology Saves Energy 
19:30 How Air Conditioning Systems Are Sized 
22:00 Ceiling Height and Home Design Considerations 
23:00 What Actually Drives Air Conditioning Costs 
25:30 Comparing Air Conditioning Brands 
27:00 New Air Purification Technology in AC Systems 
29:00 Insulation, Electrical Setup, and Installation Factors 
32:00 Maintenance and Servicing Your System 
33:30 Final Advice for Homeowners 

About our guest 

Daniel Nazroo is an experienced HVAC specialist with over 15 years in the air-conditioning and refrigeration industry. Starting his career at just 19 as an apprentice refrigeration mechanic, Daniel quickly developed deep expertise in residential heating and cooling systems and went on to launch his own business soon after becoming fully qualified.  

Daniel is particularly passionate about helping homeowners understand how air-conditioning systems actually work so they can make informed decisions when building or upgrading their homes. His practical, no-nonsense approach focuses on choosing the right system size, understanding airflow and ventilation, and avoiding the common mistakes that often lead to poor performance or unnecessary costs. 

Choosing the right carpet for your home can feel overwhelming but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, we sit down with a flooring expert, Domemic Condo, from a long-standing family flooring business to break down everything you need to know before you buy. From understanding the difference between loop pile and cut pile (plush) carpets, to choosing between nylon and polypropylene fibres, Dom walks us through the key decisions that affect how your carpet looks, feels, and lasts. We also cover the often-overlooked importance of underlay, how to choose the right colour for your space, and which carpet types work best in different rooms of the home. 

Whether you're building new, renovating, or simply replacing old carpet, this episode will give you the confidence to make the right call. 

What you’ll learn:  

• The three main carpet types and which suits your lifestyle 

• The pros and cons of loop pile vs cut pile (plush) carpet 

• Why nylon outperforms polypropylene and when it matters 

• How underlay affects comfort, longevity, and value 

• Tips for choosing carpet colours that work in your space 

• Which rooms suit carpet vs hard flooring 

• How to avoid common carpet-buying mistakes 

Chapters:  

00:50 About Dom and the family flooring business 

02:30 The three main carpet types explained 

04:00 Pros and cons of loop pile vs plush carpet 

07:00 Installation: how carpet is laid 

09:00 Carpet fibres: nylon vs polypropylene 

13:00 How to choose the right carpet for each room 

13:30 Why underlay matters more than you think 

19:30 Choosing carpet colours for your home 

22:00 Carpet in unusual spaces (laundry, home theatre, walls) 

26:00 The 10K Question 

About Our Guest: Dom is a flooring specialist from a family-owned flooring business with over 30+ years of industry experience.  

Need Carpets? Contact Dom 👇🏽 

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Hunt, an experienced painter and interior finish specialist, to talk about the overlooked details that completely transform a home. 

From wallpaper mistakes and feature walls to microcement bathrooms and limewash finishes, Mark shares practical advice homeowners rarely hear before building or renovating. 

We break down: 

• How to choose wallpaper properly 

• Why installation matters more than you think 

• When feature walls elevate a space (and when they don’t) 

• The truth about black doors, trendy colours and maintenance 

• Microcement showers, benchtops and floors 

• The difference between cheap and premium finishes 

• And what Mark would do if he built his own home tomorrow 

If you’re building, renovating, or designing your forever home, this episode will change how you think about interior finishes. 

Chapters:  

00:23 – Mark’s Background in Painting & Interiors 
01:52 – From Basic Paint to Feature Finishes 
03:58 – How to Properly Sample Paint Colours 
05:34 – Modern Wallpaper Technology Explained 
06:35 – Why Laser Measuring Beats Old School Methods 
08:14 – Custom Murals & Statement Walls 
09:26 – Wallpaper in Bathrooms & Showers 
10:27 – Feature Walls: Where They Actually Work 
11:02 – What Does Wallpaper Really Cost? 
13:15 – Affordable vs Premium Wallpaper 
15:25 – Limewash, Rag Rolling & Old-School Techniques 
16:38 – Renovation Challenges & Surface Prep 
18:16 – Bold Design vs Playing It Safe 
20:42 – Cheap Wallpaper Mistakes to Avoid 
21:18 – Why You Need a Professional Installer 
23:25 – Panel Walls & Statement Installations 
24:32 – Display Homes vs Real-World Wear & Tear 
26:14 – Microcement: What It Is & Why It’s Trending 
27:54 – Microcement in Showers & Wet Areas 
29:03 – Maintenance & Resealing Explained 
30:51 – Faux Stone, Benchtops & Creative Finishes 
32:27 – Why All-White Homes Can Feel Flat 
33:59 – Black Doors & High-Maintenance Finishes 
36:26 – Surface Cracking & Common Issues 
39:26 – Cost Per Square Metre for Specialty Finishes 
41:50 – Driveways, Concrete & Exterior Options 
44:20 – Industrial Finishes & Custom Effects 
45:53 – Working Inside Clients’ Homes 
48:10 – Mental Health in the Trades 
50:16 – 10K Question 
51:31 – Future-Proofing with Solar & Power Planning 
52:00 – Final Advice for Homeowners 

About Our Guest 

Mark Hunt is an experienced painting and interior finishes specialist with decades of hands-on experience transforming homes across residential and renovation projects. 

From traditional painting and wallpaper installation to specialty finishes like limewash, panel detailing and modern microcement applications, Mark has worked across everything from family homes to high-end custom builds. His depth of practical knowledge gives homeowners clarity on what works in the real world, not just what looks good in a showroom. 

Known for his attention to detail and pride in craftsmanship, Mark is passionate about helping clients elevate their homes through thoughtful colour choices, texture, and durable finishes that stand the test of time. 

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Not everyone building a home is designing for a growing family. 

Whether you’re downsizing, living child-free by choice, flying in and out for work, or simply entering a new stage of life, your home should reflect your lifestyle, not someone else’s blueprint. 

In this episode of the Home Building Podcast, we explore how to design a home specifically for a no-kids or post-kids lifestyle. From avoiding the common downsizing overcorrection, to designing dual-purpose rooms, smarter storage, low-maintenance gardens, and even dual key opportunities this episode is all about creating a home that works the way you actually live. 

Downsizing doesn’t mean shrinking your lifestyle. It means refining it. 

If you’re thinking about building or renovating and want to make smarter layout decisions for the long term... this one’s for you. 

What you’ll learn:  

• The biggest mistake people make when downsizing 

• Why shrinking rooms isn’t the answer — and what to do instead 

• How to design rooms for 50 weeks of the year (not 2) 

• Smart ways to create dual-purpose spaces 

• Why storage is still critical (even without kids at home) 

• How layout positioning can simplify your lifestyle 

• Low-maintenance design ideas for travellers 

• Planning space for caravans, boats and lifestyle freedom 

• How dual key designs create flexibility and rental income 

• Why downsizing doesn’t mean compromising on quality 

Chapters:  

00:41 – The Downsizing Overcorrection Mistake 
02:07 – Bigger Rooms, Fewer Rooms: A Smarter Approach 
03:11 – Designing Rooms for 50 Weeks of the Year 
04:26 – Why You Still Need Proper Storage 
05:23 – Layout Strategy: Closing Off Spare Rooms 
06:50 – Low Maintenance Living & Garden Planning 
08:10 – Planning Space for Caravans & Lifestyle Gear 
09:03 – Bonus Tip: Semi-Ensuite & Guest Flexibility 
09:37 – Dual Key Design: Income & Resale Advantages 
10:42 – Downsizing Without Compromising Your Lifestyle 

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Flooring is one of the most misunderstood decisions in home building. In this episode of The Home Building Podcast, we sit down with Robin Wobbe from Trevor’s Carpets to break down the real differences between hybrid flooring, vinyl plank, engineered timber, solid timber, and carpet. 

We cover common misconceptions pushed by builders, why certain products look great on paper but fail in real homes, how finishes like scotia and trims can make or break a design, and what flooring actually suits families, investors, renovations, and forever homes. 

If you are building, renovating, or even just planning ahead, this episode will save you from expensive mistakes and disappointing finishes. 

What you’ll learn:  

• The real difference between hybrid flooring and vinyl plank 

• Why floating floors behave differently to glued down floors 

• When vinyl plank outperforms hybrid flooring visually and practically 

• The pros and cons of engineered timber vs solid timber floors 

• Why pattern repeats matter and how installers manage them 

• How sunlight, heat, and moisture impact every flooring type 

• Flooring mistakes that instantly cheapen high end homes 

• What flooring works best for families, pets, rentals, and investors 

• Why staircases limit your flooring choices more than you think 

• How to approach flooring when renovating older homes with existing timber floors 

Chapters:  

01:30 – Robin’s background and experience in flooring 
03:40 – Why flooring advice from builders can be misleading 
05:00 – Floating floors vs glued down floors explained 
06:30 – Hybrid flooring vs vinyl plank: the real differences 
09:00 – Why trims, scotia, and transitions matter more than people think 
11:00 – Vinyl plank finishes and why they look more like timber 
13:15 – Engineered timber vs solid timber flooring 
16:40 – Acclimatising timber floors and avoiding failures 
18:45 – Sunlight, heat, and moisture: what damages floors most 
21:40 – Flooring timing in new builds and why things go wrong 
23:00 – Carpet types explained for homes and investments 
26:00 – Choosing carpet for kids, pets, and allergies 
28:40 – Colour choices and hiding wear over time 
31:00 – Flooring advice builders often oversimplify 
33:40 – Flooring on staircases and why timber is often the only option 
37:20 – Renovations: old timber floors vs new extensions 
41:00 – Direction, patterns, and layout decisions 
44:00 – Scotia, skirting, and finishing details that elevate homes 
46:20 – Final advice before choosing your flooring 

About Our Guest 

Robin Wobbe is the Sales Manager at Trevor’s Carpets and has over a decade of hands on experience across residential, commercial, and multi residential flooring projects. 

Having worked his way through sales, management, and technical flooring applications, Robin specialises in helping homeowners choose flooring based on lifestyle, longevity, and real world performance rather than trends or marketing buzzwords. 

Robin and the team at Trevor’s Carpets are known for their practical, honest advice across carpet, vinyl plank, hybrid flooring, and timber floors, making them a trusted resource for both homeowners and industry professionals. 

Get in touch with Trevors Carpets 

Choosing a builder is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when building or renovating a home and it’s also where most people get it wrong. In this episode, we break down how to think about the building industry, the different types of builders, and the real criteria that actually matter when selecting who to trust with your home. 

We talk through fixed price vs cost plus, small vs medium vs large builders, and why technical capability alone isn’t enough. Most importantly, we unpack the one question that cuts through everything: would you personally trust this builder to build your own home? 

This episode is designed to help homeowners feel more confident, ask better questions, and avoid common traps when choosing a builder. 

What you’ll learn: 

• The different categories of builders and how they impact your project 

• Fixed price vs cost plus contracts explained simply 

• Why experience in your specific project type matters more than size 

• The 7 key criteria to use when assessing builders 

• Why communication and character matter as much as build quality 

• The ultimate litmus test to decide if a builder is right for you 

Chapters 
00:27 Why choosing the right builder matters 
02:10 Understanding the building industry landscape 
05:40 Small, medium, and large builders explained 
09:20 Fixed price vs cost plus contracts 
13:05 Why builder experience in your project type is critical 
16:40 The 7 criteria to assess any builder 
20:55 Build quality, value, and timeframes 
24:10 Communication and responsiveness on site 
27:40 The most important question to ask about a builder 

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Building or subdividing in Western Australia can feel overwhelming. Planning approvals, building approvals, council policies, R-Codes, neighbour sign-offs, subdivisions, strata titles… it’s a lot. 

In this episode of The Home Building Podcast, we’re joined by Benedict McCarthy from Planning Horizons, a town planner with over 25 years of experience working across local government, construction, and private consultancy. 

We break down: 

• The difference between planning approval and building approval 

• When you can avoid planning altogether 

• Why councils say no (even when neighbours were approved) 

• How performance-based planning actually works 

• Common mistakes that delay builds by months 

• Subdivision options: green title, survey strata, strata 

• What subdivision really costs in WA
• Why street trees, setbacks, and services can kill projects

• When SAT (State Administrative Tribunal) makes sense and when it doesn’t

Chapter

01:05 – Ben McCarthy’s background in planning & construction 

02:42 – Planning vs building approval explained simply 

04:43 – Why every council is different (and why it matters) 

05:50 – The danger of missing one line in a policy 

07:06 – Informal council rules nobody tells you about 

08:49 – Deemed-to-comply vs performance-based planning 

10:17 – How planners justify variations successfully 

11:42 – When you can skip planning altogether 

12:43 – Why planning delays builds by months 

13:51 – When planning is worth it for your own home 

15:13 – How far is too far when pushing council rules 

17:52 – Why neighbours matter more than you think 

19:42 – How council assesses planning applications 

21:37 – When applications go to full council 

22:55 – SAT explained: mediation vs tribunal 

24:25 – When SAT is worth it (and when it isn’t) 

26:04 – Real example: boundary walls & policy contradictions 

28:38 – Why precedent means nothing anymore 

31:37 – How to avoid planning entirely with smarter design 

33:16 – Neighbour consent (BA20) explained 

36:39 – Green title vs survey strata vs strata 

39:09 – When strata actually makes sense 

40:54 – Subdivision layout options explained 

41:26 – First questions to ask before subdividing 

42:35 – Minimum access widths & driveway rules 

44:03 – Why surveys are critical before you start 

45:19 – R-Code densities explained simply 

47:00 – Subdivision approval process step-by-step 

50:47 – The real cost of services & infrastructure 

52:05 – Why subdivisions take 6–12 months 

54:16 – Retain or demolish? What makes more sense 

55:21 – Capital gains tax traps to avoid 

56:46 – Side-by-side vs rear battle-axe lots 

58:01 – Why verge trees can kill developments 

01:02:41 – Driveway, drainage & infrastructure pitfalls 

01:05:16 – Why expert advice saves money long term 

01:06:01 – Due diligence tips before buying

01:07:01 – Final question: $10k to spend on your home 

About Our Guest 

Benedict McCarthy is the Director of Planning Horizons and a highly experienced town planner with over 25 years in the industry. Having worked in both local government and private consultancy, Ben brings a rare, practical perspective on how councils actually assess planning applications. 

Find out more about Benedict

Thinking about adding skylights to your home but not sure where to start? 
In this episode of The Home Building Podcast, we break down everything you need to know about skylights. From design and placement to cost, performance, and long-term value. 

Joining us is Ryan Lucev from Clearview Skylights, who shares real-world insight from years in the building industry. We cover why skylights have exploded in popularity, the difference between Velux, tubular, and solar skylights, and the design mistakes that can cost you thousands if you get them wrong. 

This episode is essential listening if you’re: 

• Designing a new home 

• Renovating or extending 

• Considering skylights but worried about heat, leaks, or maintenance 

• Wanting more natural light without sacrificing energy efficiency 

What you’ll learn: 

• The three main types of skylights and where each works best 

• Why orientation (north, west, east, south) matters more than size 

• How skylight placement affects cost, light quality, and wow factor 

• The biggest design mistakes builders and homeowners make 

• Why Velux skylights dominate high-end residential design 

• How skylights impact ventilation, energy efficiency, and resale value 

If you want a home that feels brighter, more open, and genuinely special, this episode will help you make smarter design decisions from day one. 

Chapters: 

01:00 – Ryan’s Background in Building & Skylights 
04:05 – Why Skylights Transform a Home 
06:02 – What to Consider Before Choosing a Skylight 
10:41 – The 3 Types of Skylights Explained 
13:02 – Why Sun Direction Matters (North vs South) 
15:04 – Skylight Placement Mistakes to Avoid 
16:32 – Why Skylights Should Sit Near External Walls 
18:41 – Flat Roof vs Pitched Roof Skylights 
20:20 – Designing Skylights Around Lighting & Services 
22:17 – Why Velux Skylights Are Different 
24:17 – Heat, Glare & Energy Efficiency Explained 
25:55 – Fixed vs Opening Skylights 
28:08 – Rain Sensors, Ventilation & Automation 
30:19 – Are Skylights Fragile or Unsafe? 
32:03 – Common Installation Errors & DIY Issues 
33:38 – Designing Skylights for Kitchens & Living Areas 
35:45 – Choosing the Right Skylight Size 
38:27 – Multiple Skylights vs One Large Feature 
41:22 – Skylights Near Roof Ridges Explained 
42:52 – Retrofitting Skylights into Existing Homes 
45:37 – Trusses vs Stick Roofs 
48:07 – Cleaning & Maintenance Reality 
51:26 – New Build vs Retrofit Cost Differences 
54:14 – When to Visit a Skylight Showroom 
55:56 – The $10,000 Question  

About Our Guest:  

Ryan Lucev is a registered builder and the founder of Clearview Skylights, one of Australia’s leading specialists in residential skylight design and installation. 

With a background spanning roof plumbing, carpentry, site supervision, and construction management for major volume builders, Ryan brings a rare end-to-end understanding of how skylights should be designed, detailed, and installed properly.

Ryan and his team operate Australia’s largest dedicated skylight showroom in Perth, allowing homeowners, designers, and builders to see full-scale skylight installations before committing to a design. This hands-on approach helps clients avoid common mistakes and make informed decisions around light, ventilation, energy efficiency, and long-term performance. 

Clearview Skylights 

What truly makes a great kitchen to live in? 

We sit down with Don Hancey, one of Australia’s most respected chefs and food ambassadors, to explore kitchen design from a professional chef’s perspective. 

With over 40 years in hospitality, Don has cooked for world-famous artists, led major international events, and built a career around food that works in the real world, not just on paper.

We cover everything from bench layouts and workflow to natural light, herb gardens, and why the kitchen should be designed as a social space first and a showpiece second. Don also shares behind-the-scenes stories from catering for global music acts, his passion for Western Australian produce, and the small design decisions that make a huge difference to how a home actually functions day to day. 

If you’re planning a new build, renovation, or simply want a kitchen that works better for everyday life, this episode will completely change how you think about kitchen design. 

In the episode: 
00:00 Why kitchen design matters beyond looks 
01:20 Introducing chef Don Hancey 
03:40 Don’s 40+ year career in hospitality 
06:55 Falling into cooking after school struggles 
10:30 Training in Perth and early kitchen discipline 
13:40 Life lessons from hospitality and long hours 
16:20 Catering for global music acts and major events 
18:45 Cooking for Coldplay, Harry Styles & touring crews 
22:10 Why artists care so much about food quality 
24:55 Promoting Western Australian produce on tour 
27:10 Real food vs hotel and airline catering 
29:40 Why chefs value simplicity and freshness 

31:30 The importance of herbs in home kitchens 
34:20 Designing kitchens connected to the outdoors 
37:00 Natural light, skylights & kitchen wellbeing 
39:55 The biggest mistake in modern kitchen layouts 
42:30 Bench space, flow & cooking while entertaining 
45:10 Designing kitchens for conversation, not clutter 
47:40 How Don’s professional cooking influences home design 
50:30 Final advice for homeowners planning a kitchen 

About our guest: 

Don Hancey is one of Australia’s most respected chefs and a passionate advocate for local, sustainable produce. 

With a career spanning more than 40 years, Don has opened award-winning restaurants, led high-end catering operations, and cooked for some of the world’s biggest music artists and international touring crews when they’ve performed in Perth. His work has taken him across Australia and around the world, including showcasing Western Australian seafood at the James Beard Foundation in New York and at major culinary events throughout Europe and Asia. 

Don is known not only for his technical skill, but for his deep belief in food that is honest, local, and designed to bring people together. He is a tireless supporter of Western Australian producers, particularly in the seafood industry, and has played a key role in promoting clean, sustainable fishing practices. 

Today, Don continues to mentor the next generation of chefs through his commercial kitchen and training facilities, while sharing his knowledge with homeowners, designers, and builders on how kitchens should truly function in everyday life. His perspective bridges the gap between professional kitchens and family homes, focusing on flow, simplicity, and connection rather than trends alone. 

Welcome back to The Home Building Podcast for our first episode of 2026. 

In this episode, we break down what the home building industry is really shaping up to look like in 2026 and whether it actually makes sense to build, renovate, or extend your home this year. 

With record low housing supply in Perth, rising construction demand, and ongoing pressure on builders and trades, many homeowners are unsure what the right move is. We talk through what is happening on the ground, how builders are pricing work, and the real risks buyers need to understand before signing a contract. 

In this episode, we cover: 

• Why Perth’s housing supply is driving more people to build 

• What rising construction demand means for pricing and timeframes 

• Fixed price vs cost plus contracts and why the difference matters in 2026 

• How trade shortages affect build quality and builder stability 

• When renovating or extending can make more sense than buying established 

• Why building can still be a smart move if done correctly 

If you are planning to build, renovate, or knock down and rebuild in Perth, this episode will help you make clearer, more confident decisions in 2026. 

If you find this episode helpful, please follow the podcast, leave a review, or share it with someone currently planning their home. 

Chapters 
00:22 Kicking off 2026 and what this year’s focus will be 
01:06 Why long form conversations matter for homeowners 
02:00 What’s coming up on the podcast this year (guests & topics) 
03:37 The big question: should you build in 2026? 
04:00 Perth housing supply explained and why prices are rising 
05:07 Why low stock pushes more people toward building 
06:05 How government incentives impact construction demand 
06:48 Trade shortages and how they affect build quality 
08:36 Fixed price contracts and why builders are under pressure 
10:31 Cost plus contracts explained and why they’re risky for clients 
11:43 How Independent Building Advice approaches fixed pricing 
12:00 How builders should realistically price homes in 2026 
13:31 Why complex builds cost more in the current market 
14:56 Renovations and extensions: hidden complexity and cost 
15:49 The upside: Perth property growth and building for equity 
16:41 When renovating can make more sense than selling 
17:32 Why many people end up building even if they didn’t plan to 
18:36 Final verdict: is 2026 still a good time to build? 
18:55 What this podcast is here to help you with 
19:11 Closing thoughts and what’s coming next 

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Christmas is when your home gets put under real pressure. 

In this special Christmas edition of The Home Building Podcast, we talk through how to design a home that genuinely works when it is full of people, food, noise, heat, and movement. From entertaining family and friends to managing indoor outdoor flow in an Australian summer, this episode breaks down the design decisions that matter most when your home is at its busiest. 

We explore how thinking about Christmas early in the design process can help you avoid common layout mistakes and create a home that feels effortless, not chaotic, when it counts. 

In this episode, we cover: 
• How to design your home for entertaining and large gatherings 
• Where the Christmas tree actually works best in a living space 
• Smart storage ideas for decorations, presents, and seasonal items 
• Kitchen layouts that reduce crowding and keep guests out of the cooking zone 
• Indoor outdoor flow for summer entertaining and barbecues 
• Power points, lighting, and electrical planning for Christmas lights 
• Alfresco design, airflow, and cooling considerations 
• Bathroom and toilet access for guests and kids coming in from outside 
• Zoning your home for noise control and efficient air conditioning 
• Designing for peak moments so everyday living feels easier 

Whether you are planning a custom home, renovating, or simply thinking about how your house could function better during busy times, this episode will help you design with real life in mind. 

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!! 

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In this episode of The Home Building Podcast, we sit down with Mick Hart from Hart & Co, part of the iconic Rick Hart family - a group that has shaped Western Australia’s appliance industry for more than 50 years. 

We explore the world of kitchen appliances, induction technology, steam ovens, downdraft rangehoods, alfresco setups, laundry tech, and how to make smart appliance decisions when building or renovating. 

If you're planning a new home or updating your kitchen, this episode is a masterclass on what matters. From real performance to brand selection to products that genuinely make daily life easier. 

Chapters 
3:40 – Why appliances matter when building or renovating 
03:54 – Introducing Mick Hart & the Rick Hart legacy 
04:27 – Celebrating 50 years in the appliance industry 
05:07 – Family business dynamics & the marketing debates 
06:03 – Rick Hart’s influence & Perth appliance reputation 
06:44 – Working with family and long-term partners 
08:20 – New kitchen trends: induction dominating WA 
09:16 – Why gas is becoming rare in new home designs 
09:56 – Benefits of induction: speed, safety, easy cleaning 
10:17 – Boiling, chilled & sparkling taps explained 
11:17 – Price ranges & all-in-one tap options 
11:52 – Beverage centres becoming standard in new homes 
12:28 – Alfresco trends: Gozney ovens & outdoor cooking 
13:28 – Laundry innovations: steaming cabinets & garment care 
14:05 – High-end luxury appliances (Lacanche, handmade ranges) 
15:19 – How Hart & Co helps people choose appliances correctly 
16:13 – The Hart & Co consultation approach 
18:05 – Complimentary cooking demos & steam oven classes 
20:14 – Why physical showrooms still matter today 
21:19 – How kitchen design shapes social interaction 
21:37 – Downdraft extraction vs traditional rangehoods 
23:12 – Do downdraft systems actually work? Mick explains 
24:38 – Island benches, splatter considerations & real expectations 
25:15 – Household names vs unfamiliar brands 
26:19 – How Hart & Co selects the brands they stand behind 
27:26 – Growing number of appliance brands entering Australia 
28:00 – Why expert advice matters more than ever 
30:31 – Why people want to touch, see, and compare appliances 
31:12 – The risk of comparing online without expert context 
32:07 – Buying appliances online: what Hart & Co offers 
34:01 – Why combi ovens are perfect for busy families 
35:03 – Oven stack vs 900mm oven: the renovation debate 
36:11 – Legacy thinking in appliances: what’s changed? 
38:15 – Appliance buying process for new builds 
39:55 – The $10k question
41:05 – Why steam ovens are game-changing 
43:17 – Why the kitchen is always worth investing in 
45:13 – How Mick entered the family business (childhood story) 

About Our Guest 

Mick Hart -  
“My role at Hart & Co. is to support and champion our Trade Partners and our Trade Partnerships team. I’m passionate about being a trusted custodian of their brand and ensuring their clients experience an appliance journey like no other. Through immersive in-store experiences, a team of truly exceptional people - our “Hartians” (rhymes with Martians… not because they’re from another planet, but because their service is out of this world) - and the right balance of guidance and education, we empower clients to make confident, well-informed decisions for their homes.” 

Find more Hart & Co:  

In this episode, we sit down with Linda and Jay from Noble Avenue, two of Perth’s top coastal-suburb real estate experts, to break down what’s actually happening in the property market right now. 

We cover buyer psychology, suburb price shifts, why people are paying record highs, and how to prepare yourself so you don’t get priced out. We dig into selling strategies, presentation tips that add real value, and why some homes are coming back onto the market within months of being purchased. 

If you’re buying, selling, or just trying to understand the madness of the current market... this is a must-listen. 

Chapters: 

00:23 Meet Linda & Jay (Noble Avenue) 
01:13 How they joined forces in real estate 
02:27 Dominating specific suburbs 
03:11 Why buyers’ suburb expectations shift 
04:07 What’s happening in outer-suburb growth 
05:05 Current price ranges in Hillarys & surrounds 
06:13 Buyers stretching budgets + school catchment pressure 
07:01 Buyer FOMO and record street prices 
08:04 Why people are buying the wrong homes 
09:01 How to prepare mentally as a buyer 
10:07 The rise of “regret sellers” reselling fast 
11:34 Quick flips, renovating, and market timing 
12:24 Presentation tips that add real value 
13:29 Styling, staging, and why “coastal” sells 
14:56 Emotional connection – selling the lifestyle 
15:31 Landscaping and first impressions 
16:14 Smell, warmth, lighting, sensory selling 
17:46 Buyers looking for what’s wrong 
18:35 Importance of floor plans and info upfront 
19:46 Young tradies transforming homes 
20:44 How to plan your budget + expectations 
21:15 Why you’ll never get a “perfect 10/10” home 
22:07 Why ranges like “Mandurah to Alkimos” don’t work 
23:05 Buyers waiting too long and losing the market 
24:09 Selling strategies: price vs no-price 
25:12 Why auctions may return 
26:01 Agents leaving money on the table 
27:07 Properties selling “too fast” 
28:10 Overpricing vs waiting for the market 
29:15 How price ranges actually work 
30:00 Real-world example: 105 groups through 
31:31 Pros and cons of online negotiation platforms 
33:00 Buyers wanting transparency 
34:21 Why blind bidding frustrates buyers 
35:43 Where auctions shine and where they don’t 
37:26 Older buyers preferring human agents 
38:00 FIFO buyers and timing issues 
39:19 Why letting everyone through matters 
40:16 Value before price 
41:00 Agents being proven wrong on price 
42:06 Predicting where the Perth market is heading 
43:21 Selling in the same market you’re buying in 
44:07 Why sellers rush into imperfect homes 
45:03 Getting more house instead of extending 
45:56 The rise of granny flats + multi-gen living 
46:34 The 10K question... 
 

About our guests 

Linda Noble and Jay Dass from Noble Avenue. Two of Perth’s leading coastal-suburb real estate specialists. Linda brings over 20 years of top-tier experience, known as Hillarys’ most trusted agent with a flair for creative marketing and standout results. Jay, a REIWA Grandmaster with a psychology background, blends data-driven strategy, modern marketing, and sharp negotiation to deliver exceptional outcomes. Together, they offer unmatched insight into buying, selling, and navigating Perth’s competitive property market. 

Find out more about Noble Avenue 

Painting feels simple... until you’re halfway through and it’s felt like forever. Most homeowners underestimate just how much technique, prep work and product knowledge goes into getting a clean, long-lasting finish. 

In this episode, we sit down with Tracie & Peter Barrass, married couple running an amazing painting company, with more than 47 years of experience, to unpack everything you should know before picking up a roller or hiring someone who will actually do it right. 

Chapters: 

00:23 – Why painting isn’t as simple as it looks 
01:11 – DIY mistakes painters always notice 
03:25 – Oil vs acrylic (and why your doors turn yellow) 
05:02 – Choosing paints for longevity vs appearance 
07:04 – Why colour consultants matter more than you think 
09:52 – Paint names, myths and industry stories 
11:14 – Dulux Accredited explained 
12:04 – Environmentally safe paint disposal (Paintback) 
13:26 – Lead paint, old houses and changing standards 
14:34 – Gyprock vs plaster: what painters see 
17:18 – How moisture affects new builds and paint adhesion 
21:09 – Why builders avoid painting (and what clients miss) 
23:07 – Paint sheens: flat, low sheen, semi & gloss 
25:14 – Why you shouldn’t use flat on walls 
27:00 – Doors, trims and the right sheen choice 
28:03 – Feature walls and modern trends 
31:01 – The difference between premium and trade paint 
32:05 – How many coats your home actually needs 
33:57 – Why not sealing walls ruins them long-term 
34:44 – Prepping existing walls properly 
35:18 – Dealing with bathroom mould the right way 
36:23 – Ventilation, energy ratings and mould issues 
37:20 – Kids’ rooms, marks and repainting 
38:11 – Do painters move furniture? (How it works) 
39:17 – How long it really takes to paint a whole home 
40:57 – Dry time, curing time and when to clean walls 
41:34 – Why builder painting costs vary so much 
42:24 – The impact of colour choices on overall design 
43:37 – Blackboard paint, whiteboard walls & specialty finishes 
44:09 – Suede, metallic & textured paints 
46:26 – Feature walls today: trends & what’s changed 
47:01 – Painting over dark colours (and why it takes more coats) 
47:35 – The $10k question: what they’d upgrade in their own homes 

About Our Guest 

P & T Barras Painting is an owner-operated company established in 1994 with the view to setting a high standard in painting across the Perth area.  Theyoffer a vast range of services such as residential and small commercial repaints, interior and exterior projects such as heritage homes, new homes, single and multi storey properties, strata properties, shopping centres and office fitouts.  They also carry out painting on large facilities and warehouses. 

They are dedicated to meeting client expectations by delivering excellent service and quality craftmanship and by making our clients makeover a hassle free and positive experience. 

They are a member of the Master Painters Association and the Dulux Accredited Programme all of which helps when a client is looking for a reputable painter. As a member of the Dulux Accredited programme  theycan offer the services of a Dulux colour consultant free of charge to the client on acceptance of our quotation. 

 
Get in touch with P&T Barras Painting 

If you're designing, drafting, or planning a new home, this episode will give you the clarity you need to avoid costly copyright disputes and protect your investment. 

Design copyright is one of the most widely misunderstood parts of the home building process. 

Who owns your plans? Can you take your design to another builder? Does changing ten percent actually protect you? And what happens if your builder goes under? 

In this episode, we sit down with David Wilson from Stratocumulus Legal to break down the real rules around design copyright, plan ownership, implied licenses, moral rights, and the common myths repeated in the building industry. 

Chapters: 

00:23 Why design copyright matters in home building 
01:03 Meet David Wilson 
01:35 What design copyright protects 
02:48 Why people misunderstand ownership 
04:07 The ten percent change myth 
05:52 What counts as infringement 
09:15 Who actually owns house plans 
14:10 Implied licenses and how they trap homeowners 
18:04 Copying vs independent design 
22:04 Shopping plans to different builders 
25:00 Real industry examples and legal outcomes 
27:10 Builder-supplied free plans and hidden copyright issues 
29:26 When a builder collapses: who owns the plans 
32:00 Removing logos and moral rights 
34:17 How to protect yourself upfront 
45:06 Final thoughts 

51:30 The 10K Question 

About Our Guest 

David Wilson is the founder and principal of Stratocumulus Legal, a consultancy specialising in intellectual property, technology, and commercial advisory work. Before launching his practice in 2020, David spent more than twenty years at international law firms as an IP and technology lawyer, commercial disputes practitioner, and general commercial advisor. He also served as in-house counsel on secondment to a major Japanese corporation in Tokyo. 

Throughout his career, David has advised on every aspect of intellectual property — from ownership, licensing, and assignments to infringement, moral rights, trade secrets, and design protection. His experience spans industries including building and construction, creative fields, startups, and emerging technology. 

David has a particular interest in how copyright and other IP laws apply to new technologies such as generative AI, automation, and 3D-printing — making him a highly relevant and forward-thinking voice in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. 

Get in touch with David:  

Boston Cable, buyer’s agent and property strategist, unpacks the realities of Perth’s wild property market record-low stock levels, bidding wars, and why so many people are overpaying for average homes. 

We cover: 

• Why Perth’s vacancy rates are driving massive price growth 

• How to know whether it’s smarter to buy, build, or renovate 

• The right time to strike (and when to wait) 

• How to structure offers that win, without overpaying 

• The pros and cons of rentvesting 

• The emotional traps that cost buyers hundreds of thousands 

If you’re planning to buy, build or invest in WA this one’s essential listening. 

Chapters: 

00:23 — Meet Boston Cable: Buyer’s Agent & Property Strategist 
01:19 — Why Perth’s Market is So Challenging Right Now 
02:32 — Record-Low Stock Levels Explained 
03:35 — What Vacancy Rates Really Mean for Property Prices 
05:13 — Are We Still in a Boom or Is It Cooling Off? 
06:27 — How Buyers Are Competing with 50+ Offers per Home 
07:40 — Timing the Market vs Time in the Market 
08:49 — The Emotional Trap: Overpaying for the Wrong Property 
10:09 — How to Buy Without Letting Emotions Control You 
11:12 — The “Forever Home” vs “Investment Property” Mindset 
13:13 — Building vs Buying Established: Which Makes Sense Now 
15:20 — The IBA “Reno or Demo” Quiz  
16:22 — Compromise, Location, and Why Perfect Homes Don’t Exist 
17:38 — Crazy Client Stories & Unrealistic Expectations 
18:47 — Why You Should Never Choose the House Before the Block 
19:39 — Orientation, Sunlight & Design Fit Explained 
21:00 — How to Know if a Renovation or Extension is Worth It 
21:49 — Fear of Costs: Why People Miss Great Opportunities 
22:49 — When Your Budget Doesn’t Match Your Suburb 
24:16 — The “Rentvesting” Strategy Explained 
25:31 — The Smarter Way to Get Into Desirable Suburbs 
27:26 — Real Client Example: Choosing Long-Term Wealth Over Lifestyle 
29:04 — Rentvesting Math: Why It Often Wins Financially 
31:02 — Using Equity, Subdivisions & Cashflow to Build Wealth 
33:02 — Personal Story: Selling Too Fast & Running Out of Options 
35:24 — The Case for Renting With Friends (and Doing It Legally) 
36:09 — How to Save Money While Upgrading Lifestyle 
38:01 — Why You Don’t Need to Own to Build Wealth 
39:26 — Investor Psychology: Stop Buying for Yourself 
40:39 — What Makes a Good Investment Property 
42:22 — Apartments, Strata & Common Mistakes to Avoid 
43:13 — How to Win in Multiple-Offer Situations 
46:09 — How Settlement Conditions Can Beat Higher Offers 
48:16 — The Seller’s Mindset: Why Simplicity Wins 
49:44 — The Importance of Having the Right People in Your Corner 
50:35 — How Negotiation Has Changed in Today’s Market 
52:33 — Why “You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know” in Property 
54:56 — The Danger of Emotional Buying 
56:06 — Final Thoughts: Get Expert Help Before You Buy 
56:23 — $10K Question  

About Our guests 

Boston Cable is a Perth-based Buyer’s Agent at Verve Buyers Agency, who helps clients purchase smarter, avoid overpaying, and build long-term wealth through strategic acquisitions. 

Boston represents clients ranging from first-time buyers to high-net-worth investors guiding them through sourcing, negotiating, and securing the right property for their goals. 

His focus is on data-backed decisions, not guesswork helping clients buy with confidence in one of the toughest markets WA has ever seen. 

Get in touch with Boston   

Ever wondered what all those property terms actually mean green title, strata, survey strata, tenants in common, or joint tenants? In this episode of The Home Building Podcast, Behan sits down with Kealeigh Barker, property and leasing lawyer at Lavan , to unpack the legal side of property ownership in Western Australia. 

From understanding titles and strata schemes to knowing when to use a settlement agent vs. a lawyer, Kealeigh breaks down complex topics into plain English. You’ll also learn how to avoid common pitfalls like double stamp duty, poorly written contracts, and bylaw confusion. 

If you’re planning to buy, subdivide, or develop in WA this episode will help you protect your biggest investment.  

Chapters

1:00 – Meet Kealeigh Barker from Lavan 

3:00 – Explaining Titles: Green Title vs. Survey Strata vs. Strata 

8:00 – When to Use a Lawyer vs. Settlement Agent 

11:00 – Stamp Duty, Trusts & Common Legal Pitfalls 

15:00 – First Homeowner Grant & Eligibility Rules 

20:00 – Tenants in Common vs. Joint Tenants Explained 

23:00 – Estate Planning, Wills & Power of Attorney 

27:00 – Contract Conditions & Settlement Periods 

30:00 – Structural Reports & Due Diligence Clauses 

33:00 – Subdivisions & Hidden Costs 

36:00 – Strata Bylaws & Common Disputes 

39:00 – Legal Issues in Strata Schemes (EV chargers, exclusive use areas) 

43:00 – AI and Legal Advice... Proceed with Caution 

46:00 – The $10,000 Question 

About our guest 

Kealeigh Barker, from Lavan senior associate at Lavan, one of Perth’s leading law firms. With over a decade of experience in conveyancing, commercial law, and property settlements, Kealeigh is known for her ability to simplify complex legal matters and ensure clients are protected through every stage of property ownership and development. 

Choose the right stone benchtop with confidence. In this episode we sit down with Ty Pyror from Asetica, to beak down one of the most confusing decisions in modern home design, choosing your kitchen benchtops. 

From the rise of porcelain and sintered stone to the truth about engineered stone bans, maintenance, pricing, and durability, Ty shares insider insights every homeowner should know before locking in materials with their builder. 

Chapters: 

01:00 – The truth about modern stone choices 
03:00 – Engineered stone vs porcelain vs natural stone 
07:00 – Why so much confusion exists in the industry 
12:00 – What to do when your builder says “we don’t use that product” 
17:00 – Understanding fabricators, stonemasons, and quotes 
22:00 – How to save money on benchtops 
26:00 – Splashbacks: the most underrated kitchen feature 
33:00 – Ty’s tips for finding a trusted supplier 
37:00 – The $10k question  
38:30 – Closing thoughts and where to find Asetica Stone 

About Our Guest 

Ty's is the Head of Growth & Brand at Asetica, a supplier of sintered and porcelain surfaces that combine European craftsmanship with everyday practicality. 

With over a decade in the stone and interiors industry, Ty has seen the evolution of Australia’s benchtop market firsthand from the early days of engineered stone to the new wave of durable, low-maintenance materials. 

His mission is simple: to help builders, designers, and homeowners make smarter choices that look beautiful, perform better, and last longer. 

In this episode of The Home Building Podcast, we sit down with Andrew Santich, an architectural designer with over 20 years of experience, to unpack what really makes a home feel amazing to live in. 

From ceiling heights to skylights, contrast, and clever design tricks, Andy shares how thoughtful decisions can completely transform a home’s comfort, light, and flow without blowing your budget. 

We also talk about what drives great design, how to balance creativity with cost, and what truly motivates designers to keep creating homes that make people happy. 

If you’re thinking about designing your dream home or just want to understand how to make your space feel bigger, brighter, and better, this episode is a must-listen. 

Chapters: 

00:17 – Why good design matters 
01:00 – What makes a home feel “cozy” vs “open” 
03:45 – Ceiling heights, contrast, and flow 
07:30 – Skylights and the power of natural light 
10:50 – Designing for comfort and proportion 
14:30 – Balancing budget and creativity 
18:20 – Andy’s 20 years in design: what’s changed 
22:45 – The joy of problem solving in home design 
26:00 – Rapid-fire question: “What would you spend $10k on?” 
28:30 – Final thoughts and closing 

About the guest 

Andy is one of our Client Advocates at Independent Building Advice, with over 20 years in building industry. Known for his calm approach and deep understanding of client needs, Andy specialises in creating homes that feel spacious, functional, and full of natural light no matter the budget. 

At IBA he guides clients from their first design meeting through to builder selection and construction, ensuring every plan balance creativity, practicality, and cost transparency. His passion lies in solving design challenges and helping homeowners feel confident about every decision they make. 

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Ben Black, owner of Total Homes Inspections, dives into the world of building inspections and covers what’s important & what he’s seeing in the construction industry right now. From good; to bad; to ugly, Ben has seen it all and wants to help homeowners & builders alike to produce quality work.

Getting an independent building inspection might feel awkward like you’re checking up on your builder. But in reality, it’s one of the smartest decisions you can make when building or renovating your home.

Chapters:

00:23 Why Building Inspections Matter 
01:00 Ben’s Background 
03:27 The Key Stages for Inspections 
06:04 What Happens at Practical Completion 
07:09 When Things Go Wrong Without Inspections 
09:48 Do Inspections Upset Builders? 
11:38 The Problem with Unqualified Inspectors 
13:46 Over-Reporting vs. Real Issues 
15:39 The Maintenance Period Debate (6 vs 12 Months) 
17:41 Why Early Inspections Save You Later 
20:14 Pre-Purchase Inspections & Common Non-Compliance Issues 
23:24 The Wild Side of Inspections 
24:40 Why Inspections Protect You if Builders Collapse 
26:09 On-Site Shockers & Industry Standards 
29:06 Quality Builders vs. Cowboys 
31:13 Do Builders Lift Their Game When Inspected? 
32:35 When Builders Ignore Defects 
35:27 Inspectors as Mediators, Not Enemies 
37:04 The $10,000 Question

About the Guest 

Ben Black is a registered builder and building inspector with 30+ years of experience in the WA construction industry. As the founder of Total Homes Inspections, he’s completed over 6,000 inspections helping homeowners build with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.

Contact Total Home Inspection  

Behan sits down with Josie Martin, owner of Decor Avenue, kitchen designer and cabinetmaker with over 20 years of hands-on experience. They dive into what really makes a kitchen functional, beautiful, and built to last. From how wide your island bench should be to whether pot drawers are worth it, Josie shares expert advice on layout, budgeting, and materials that will save you time, money, and stress. They also dive into the latest design trends, like fluted paneling, curved benchtops, and porcelain splash backs plus the common kitchen mistakes that look great on paper but fail in real life. 

Chapters:  

01:10 – Meet Josie from Décor Avenue 
02:20 – How she got started in kitchen design 
04:00 – What makes a kitchen actually functional 
06:35 – Island bench sizing & walkways 
09:10 – The problem with “too many drawers” 
11:45 – Storage design that fits your lifestyle 
14:20 – Hidden costs people forget when designing a kitchen 
16:55 – Latest kitchen trends: fluted panels, curves & porcelain 
20:25 – Stone benchtops vs engineered options 
23:05 – Why lighting can make or break your kitchen 
25:30 – The most common design mistakes homeowners make 
28:15 – Josie's advice for anyone about to start designing 
30:10 – The $10K home improvement question 
 
About Our Guest:  Josie Martin

With over 20 years of experience in the interior design industry, Josie is the creative force behind Decor Avenue an Australian design studio known for not being afraid of colour. Specialising in unforgettable Airbnb fitouts and home renovations, Josie blends practical building knowledge, good listening skills and a passion for everything interior design to create the best spaces possible for her clients. Whether it’s a cozy sanctuary or a chef-worthy kitchen, her work is all about transforming spaces into unique, feel-good homes that clients are proud of. At Decor Avenue, Josie empowers clients to make selections they would not normally chose themselves, always focusing on colour, practicality, comfort, and a five-star experience. 

In this episode of The Home Building Podcast, Behan sits down with David Bergen from DB2 Pest Control to uncover one of the most expensive risks facing Aussie homeowners: termites. 

Termites cause over $1 billion worth of damage to 650,000 homes every year and none of it is covered by insurance. David explains why these pests are so dangerous, how to spot the hidden signs before it’s too late, and the biggest mistakes homeowners make that invite termites straight into their homes. 

Whether you’re building new, renovating, or maintaining your current home, this episode will give you practical tips to protect your most important investment. 

⏱️ Chapters 

00:00 – Intro & welcome 
01:05 – Meet David Bergen, DB2 Pest Control 
02:40 – Why termites aren’t covered by insurance 
05:14 – How termites get into your home 
08:30 – The “clicking in the walls” story 
12:47 – Common homeowner mistakes (like wood piles) 
16:25 – Why spraying termites makes it worse 
20:33 – What an inspection really involves 
25:12 – Prevention vs treatment costs 
29:45 – Termite stats: $1 billion a year in damage 
32:18 – David’s $10K home improvement answer 

About Our Guest:  

David Bergen is the owner of DB2 Pest Control, a trusted Perth-based company specialising in termite management and home protection. With years of hands-on experience, David has seen firsthand the devastating impact termites can have on Australian homes causing billions in damage each year, none of which is covered by insurance. 

One of the biggest challenges homeowners face is: debt. Behan sits down with financial expert & owner of Financial Management 101, Karen Adams, to explore what it takes to become financially in control for homeowners balancing life.  

Karen discloses several strategies & tactics she teaches to help people to live a life free of money stress. If you’ve ever felt stressed about your mortgage, struggled to pay off credit cards, or wondered how to build financial security while still enjoying life, this episode will give you a clear, practical roadmap. 

**Disclaimer** – The information discussed on the podcast is general information only. You should consult with a qualified financial professional to assess your individual circumstance. 

Chapters:  

00:23 – Why finance matters as much as design in building a home 
01:05 – Introducing Karen Adams (Financial Coach, Financial Management 101) 
02:04 – Interest rates then vs now: what’s changed 
03:31 – The difference between good debt and bad debt 
05:01 – The trap of “small payments” thinking 
07:08 – How banks profit off credit card debt 
08:24 – Credit cards vs debit cards: what’s safer? 
09:56 – Debt reduction strategies: snowball vs avalanche 
13:31 – The importance of accountability and financial coaching 
17:34 – Why mindset is 80% of the money battle 
19:13 – How to make budgeting less painful 
21:17 – Celebrating wins while paying off debt 
22:47 – Why couples must align on money goals 
24:16 – Using visual budgeting tools to stay on track 
26:26 – Should you roll credit card debt into your mortgage? 
30:20 – Why “band-aid” fixes don’t solve financial habits 
34:13 – How offset accounts really work 
40:14 – Getting in front: savings buffers & emergency funds 
42:00 – The power of 3–6 months of expenses in savings 
44:09 – Starting your investment journey after debt 
45:47 – Karen’s $10K home improvement answer 

About Our Guest 

Karen Adams is a financial coach and educator who helps everyday Australians take control of their money and break free from the stress of debt. With years of experience guiding clients through budgeting, debt repayment, and financial goal-setting, Karen specialises in teaching practical, easy-to-implement strategies like the snowball and avalanche methods to eliminate debt faster. 

Get in touch with Karen 👇🏽 

Buying the right home for you can be a very challenging and stressful time. But it doesn't have to be with the right help. In this episode of Home Building Podcast, Behan sits with buyer’s agent David Keay to unpack the role of a buyer’s agent and why they’re becoming a powerful tool in today’s competitive market. From off-market deals to navigating negotiations, David explains how he helps clients cut through the noise, avoid emotional mistakes, and secure the right property at the right price. Whether you’re building, renovating, investing, or looking for your forever home, this conversation will show you how a buyer’s agent can give you the edge.  

Chapters:

00:23 – Why it’s hard to find the right property  

01:13 – Introducing David Kaye, Buyer’s Agent  

02:00 – What does a buyer’s agent actually do?  

04:41 – High growth vs high yield property strategies  

05:59 – Off-market and pre-market opportunities explained  

07:35 – Why some sellers choose pre-market sales  

09:14 – Helping clients see past “ugly” properties  

11:17 – Taking emotion out of buying decisions  

13:13 – Negotiation tactics & levelling the playing field  

15:01 – The “bridesmaid effect” in suburbs  

17:06 – Beating the crowds: inspecting before home opens  

19:09 – Structuring deals beyond price  

19:42 – How buyer’s agents charge fees  

22:13 – Setting client expectations in a fast-moving market  

23:32 – Speed & due diligence in property buying  

25:01 – Case study: Avoiding hidden pitfalls  

26:26 – Where David operates (Perth, Bunbury, Geraldton)  

27:06 – Why his background gives clients an edge  

28:24 – The 10K Question  

About our Guest:  

David Kaye is a Perth-based buyer’s agent who specialises in helping clients secure the right property at the right price. With years of experience working across Perth, Bunbury, and Geraldton, David guides homebuyers and investors through the entire process.  

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In this episode of The Home Building Podcast, Behan is joined by Peter Wiedermann, a pool industry veteran with 30+ years of experience as a builder, technician, and consultant.  

They dive into everything you need to know if you’re planning a pool for your new build or renovation, including: 

What they talk about: 
✅ Concrete vs fibreglass pools - which is right for your block? 
✅ The hidden risks of “natural” pools (and why they don’t work in WA) 
✅ Approvals, fencing rules & common council headaches 
✅ Pool safety essentials every parent must know 
✅ Heating, maintenance, and how to avoid costly mistakes 

Whether you’re dreaming of a plunge pool, building a backyard oasis, or simply maintaining an existing pool, this episode is packed with expert insights to save you stress, money, and risk. 

Chapters 

00:23 – Why pools should be part of the home design, not an afterthought 
01:05 – Meet Peter: 30+ years in the pool industry 
02:32 – A pool that looked perfect but wasn’t safe 
04:02 – Consulting for new pool builds & purchases 
04:44 – First question to ask: what’s the pool’s purpose? 
05:08 – Plunge pools & ice bath trend 
06:20 – Concrete vs fibreglass pools 
08:40 – The truth about “natural” pools 
10:49 – How close can a pool be to the house? 
13:13 – Approvals, councils & fencing headaches 
16:02 – Aboveground pools: pros & cons 
18:12 – Teaching kids to swim & supervision rules 
20:16 – Designing visibility into your pool area 
23:14 – Pool fencing mistakes (planter beds, trench fences) 
25:14 – Pool colours, safety & temperature differences 
29:03 – Heating options: solar, gas, heat pumps 
33:22 – Infinity pools: pros, cons & hidden issues 
39:04 – Ponds vs pools & council rules 
41:08 – Existing pool maintenance mistakes 
44:13 – Chlorine vs chloramines (why smell ≠ safe) 
45:53 – Saltwater vs chlorine pools (myths busted) 
47:07 – Alternative sanitation (ionisers & copper/silver systems) 
48:36 – Easements & why you can’t build pools over them 
52:01 – Pool access challenges & cranes over houses 
55:07 – Tips for maintaining your pool year-round 
59:16 – The $10k question: Peter’s surprising answer 

About Our Guest:  

Peter Weirdermann brings over 30 years' experience as a pool builder & technician and Australian host of “Monday’s Down Under” on the Talking Pools Podcast, rated in the top 1.5% podcast globally, for all pool professionals around the world. 

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Your electrical planning can either future proof your home or annoy you every single time you reach for the light switch. When it comes to building or renovating, it’s often the small details that create the biggest frustrations down the track so in this episode of The Home Building Podcast, Behan sits down with very experienced electrician Tim Learbuch, owner of Learings Electrical to share practical tips on electrical layout, power point location, switches, lighting, and futureproofing that can save you money and headaches later. 

From avoiding the “bed locked to one wall forever” mistake, to why a $20 decision during construction can cost you $500 later, this episode covers the real-world advice every homeowner should hear before building. 

Chapters:  

00:03 – Why electrical planning is critical when building 
00:04 – Guest intro: Tim Lee from Living Electrical 
00:07 – The $20 PowerPoint mistake that costs $500 later 
00:13 – Planning for future lighting with junction boxes 
00:16 – Why “I’ll do it later” never happens 
00:19 – Smarter switch layouts & dimmers 
00:23 – Drawing furniture into your plans to avoid mistakes 
00:27 – Lifestyle scenarios & security lighting 
00:31 – Outdoor electrics: pools, landscaping & Christmas lights 
00:44 – Future-proofing for solar, EVs & batteries 
00:49 – Subdivision headaches & temporary power 
00:52 – Overhead vs underground power & three-phase 

About the Guest: 

Tim Learbuch, owner of Learings Electrical, with over 24 years of experiences is dedicated to helping home owners understand what they need out of there electrical system. Not just what a builder or lighting designer throws onto a plan for them to sign off. 

Get in touch with Tim: 

Learings Electrical 

In this episode of The Home Building Podcast, Behan sits down with Premici, General Manager of Home Base Design & Build Centre in Subiaco, Perth. Australia’s largest home design and build centre.

They dive into:

✅ Why Home Base has become WA’s go-to hub for builders, renovators, and designers.

✅ How thousands of products, showrooms, and courses under one roof can save you time, money, and stress.

✅ Tips on getting the most out of your visit — from free design consults to hidden gems you won’t find online.

Whether you’re building, renovating, or just looking for inspiration, Home Base is a one-stop destination to kickstart your ideas and connect with experts.

Chapters

00:00 – Intro

02:35 – Where do I start with ideas & inspiration?

03:18 – Welcome to Home Base

04:54 – The history of Home Base (30+ years in Perth)

05:56 – What makes Home Base unique (200+ brands under one roof)

08:05 – Discovering products you didn’t know existed

09:24 – Finding hidden gems & new inspiration11:01 – Why Home Base works better than display villages

13:10 – Who uses Home Base (first home buyers → downsizers)

15:18 – Free services & affordable design courses

19:00 – Why seeing and touching products beats online browsing

21:17 – Kitchens, bathrooms & 25+ showrooms in one place

22:49 – How brands showcase products to inspire clients

25:10 – Best way to navigate your visit (maps, QR codes, consultants)

27:29 – Making building fun & less overwhelming

28:05 – $10,000 question: where would you spend it?

31:20 – Wrap-up & why professional design advice pays off

About our guest:

Gino Premici has been with Home Base for over 12 years. Gino's has an experienced background in Marketing and Brand Management. His love for built design comes from his father, a proud Bricklayer/Builder for over 60 years. In between his time managing Home Base in Subiaco, Gino is very visual, driven by the ability drive change through creative vision, taking inspiration from travelling experiences in retail & hospitality.

In this episode of The Home Building Podcast, Behan Flaherty sits down with Glen Austen, Director of TAG Finance, to unpack the world of home finance. Whether you’re building your first home, refinancing, or planning a property investment, Glen shares expert advice on navigating loans, securing pre-approval, managing interest rates, and avoiding common mistakes in the lending process. This is your practical guide to making confident financial decisions when building or buying your home. 

Chapters: 

• 02:15 – Glen’s background 

• 05:10 – The first step in home finance 

• 09:00 – Interest rates & market conditions 

• 14:30 – Common mistakes to avoid 

• 20:00 – Finance for investors vs. owner-occupiers 

• 25:45 – Structuring your loan for flexibility 

• 30:30 – Final advice for first-time builders 

• 33:00 – Closing thoughts & where to find Glen 

• 40:00 – $10K Home Improvement Question  

About Our Guest 

Glen Austen

TAG Finance Group - Director 

Glen Austen is has a wealth of knowledge in Home Loans, Business Loans, Investment loans, helping people purchase their first home. All of the aspiring home owners we’ve sent his way have had an amazing experience with him & had some really amazing outcomes. Glen is dedicated to tailoring finance solutions to each person’s unique circumstances, ensuring every client achieves the best possible outcome. He specialises in creating customised financial structures to meet a wide range of needs, saying, “It’s incredibly rewarding to help people realise their dreams and play a part in that journey.” 
 
Get in touch with Glen: 

Interior and architectural designer Bianca Campbell from White Door Studio joins us to talk about one of the most overwhelming (and important) parts of home design, choosing the right colours. 

From tiles and cabinetry to paint and fixtures, Bianca discusses how to create a cohesive palette using simple home design principles like the 3-Colour Rule. We also discuss how to translate Pinterest inspiration into practical decisions that actually work in your space. 

Bianca discusses: 

• How to create a cohesive palette 

• Simple design principals 

• 3-Colour-Rule and how to make it work for you 

• How to translate your Pinterest boards into practical decisions 

• Real world examples of how this works 

About Our Guest 

Bianca Campbell is the founder of White Door Studio, based in Perth, WA. With a love for both creative styling and technical detail, Bianca helps homeowners bring their vision to life through functional, elegant, and practical design. 

She’s known for simplifying selections and helping clients make confident decisions — from colour palettes to layout. 

IBA Founder & Home Building Podcast host Behan Flaherty to unpack how the home building industry has shifted and what that means for aspiring home builders in Australia. 

We explore the hidden traps most people fall into when building, the outdated way the industry still sells homes, and why being first to get a quote doesn’t always mean the best you’ll be delivering the best outcome for you.  

Behan shares 

• Real, genuine home building stories 

• Practical advice for aspiring home owners 

• How to strategically think about your home build 

• Why asking better questions will lead to a better experience 

• What it takes to have control of your build from day one 

 
About Our Host: 

Behan Flaherty is the Founder of Independent Building Advice (IBA), a Perth-based building consultancy that helps homeowners navigate the home building process with unbiased advice, smarter designs, and finding the right builder for you. 

With over 25 years of experience inside the building industry, Behan prides himself on advocating for people who want to build with confidence... not confusion.