Builders Beyond Borders

Before you spend $10K–$20K on architectural plans, there's a smarter first step that can save you money, stress and months of wasted time. In today's episode of Builders Beyond Borders, we break down why homeowners should speak to a builder before engaging an architect or designer especially if you're building or renovating in Australia.

Joining us are Paul from Independent Building Solutions (Canberra), Dean and Shannon from DJH Builders (Tassie), and Hugh from New Realm Homes (Melbourne) as they explain how early builder involvement keeps your project realistic, on budget and actually buildable.

Listen on Spotify// https://open.spotify.com/show/0eGpiuFZidHdOcFunXPo4q

Apple Podcast// https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builders-beyond-borders/id1841312899

Youtube// https://www.youtube.com/@BuildersBeyondBordersPodcast

Follow us on Facebook// https://www.facebook.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast/

Instagram// https://www.instagram.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast_/

Looking for a builder? Perway Construction Services in Western Australia - https://www.perway.com.au

DJH Builders in Tasmania - https://djhbuilders.com.au

New Realm Homes in Victoria - https://newrealmhomes.com.au

Independent Building Solutions in Canberra - www.ibscanberra.com.au

Matt Auld Builder in Victoria - https://mabuilder.com.au

In this episode of Builders Beyond Borders, we sit down with Madison from Tasmania — a business owner, soon-to-be mum, and proud granny flat resident — to chat about how downsizing into a small space became the smartest housing decision her family ever made.

From converting an Airbnb cabin into a cozy home on her in-laws' five-acre property, to the financial freedom, family connection, and minimalist lifestyle that came with it, Madison shares real stories and practical takeaways that challenge the traditional homeownership mindset.

If you're an Aussie family looking for more affordable ways to live, considering intergenerational housing, or just curious about granny flats as an investment, this one's for you.

Listen on Spotify// https://open.spotify.com/show/0eGpiuFZidHdOcFunXPo4q

Apple Podcast// https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builders-beyond-borders/id1841312899

Youtube// https://www.youtube.com/@BuildersBeyondBordersPodcast

Follow us on Facebook// https://www.facebook.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast/

Instagram// https://www.instagram.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast_/

Looking for a builder? Perway Construction Services in Western Australia - https://www.perway.com.au

DJH Builders in Tasmania - https://djhbuilders.com.au

New Realm Homes in Victoria - https://newrealmhomes.com.au

Independent Building Solutions in Canberra - www.ibscanberra.com.au

Matt Auld Builder in Victoria - https://mabuilder.com.au

You might be surprised to learn that bathroom renovations often need just as many trades as building an entire home. In this episode, we break down the full process and explain the behind-the-scenes coordination required to make a bathroom renovation run smoothly.

As builders who do this every day, we're sharing what really goes into turning that tired old bathroom into something functional and beautiful. From tilers and waterproofers to plumbers and painters, you'll hear exactly who you need, what they do, and why timing matters.

We also share real stories from clients who tried managing their own renos and ended up overwhelmed, stressed or spending more than expected. If you're considering taking it all on yourself, this episode will help you weigh your options and avoid costly missteps.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0eGpiuFZidHdOcFunXPo4q

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builders-beyond-borders/id1841312899

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BuildersBeyondBordersPodcast

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast_/

Is your dream home renovation becoming a budget nightmare? In this episode of Builders Beyond Borders, the crew gets real about the financial side of building — and why it's not your builder's job to magically meet your budget if you're not upfront about it.

Join Shannon from DJH Builders, Hugh from New Realm Homes, Paul from Independent Building Solutions, and Louise & Andy from Perway Construction as they share stories and practical strategies for keeping your project within budget without sacrificing your vision.

From saving $35,000 by shaving off 10 square meters, to identifying cost-heavy areas like kitchens and working closely with designers and draftsmen early — this episode is packed with insights to help you build smart, not just big.

Listen on Spotify// https://open.spotify.com/show/0eGpiuFZidHdOcFunXPo4q

Apple Podcast// https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builders-beyond-borders/id1841312899

Youtube// https://www.youtube.com/@BuildersBeyondBordersPodcast

Follow us on Facebook// https://www.facebook.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast/

Instagram// https://www.instagram.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast_/

Before you knock down a wall or choose a tapware finish, tune into this essential episode of Builders Beyond Borders.

Hosted by Dean and Shannon Hodgetts of DJH Builders and joined by Louise and Andy Kearns from Perway Construction Services, and Paul from Independent Building Solutions, this episode uncovers the real costs of home renovations that too many Aussie homeowners learn the hard way.

From provisional sums to asbestos surprises, switchboard upgrades to plumbing red flags, the crew shares hard-earned lessons that could save you thousands—and serious stress—during your next project.

Listen on Spotify// https://open.spotify.com/show/0eGpiuFZidHdOcFunXPo4q

Apple Podcast// https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builders-beyond-borders/id1841312899

Youtube// https://www.youtube.com/@BuildersBeyondBordersPodcast

Follow us on Facebook// https://www.facebook.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast/

Instagram// https://www.instagram.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast_/

There's a critical step many homeowners skip and it's not the floor plan. It's finance.

In this episode, Shannon from DJH Builders and Hugh from New Realm Homes get real about what can go wrong when your finance broker isn't the right fit. They share stories from the field and offer candid advice to help you avoid financial heartbreak before your build even begins.

The wrong broker can cost you time, money, and your dream home. But the right one? They'll be a partner in your success.

Listen on Spotify// https://open.spotify.com/show/0eGpiuFZidHdOcFunXPo4q

Apple Podcast// https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builders-beyond-borders/id1841312899

Youtube// https://www.youtube.com/@BuildersBeyondBordersPodcast

Follow us on Facebook// https://www.facebook.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast/

Instagram// https://www.instagram.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast_/

What happens when homeowners and builders build more than just houses — but real relationships? In this episode of Builders Beyond Borders, the crew explores why connection, communication, and mutual respect are the secret ingredients to a smoother, more enjoyable building or renovation experience.

Join Louise from Perway NWA, Hugh from New Realm Homes, Paul from Independent Building Solutions, Andy from Perway Construction Services, and Matt Old from Matt Old Builders as they share honest stories about how trust and communication can make (or break) a project.

Whether you're building your dream home or tackling your first renovation, this conversation will help you understand why a great relationship with your builder can be the difference between stress and success.

Listen on Spotify// https://open.spotify.com/show/0eGpiuFZidHdOcFunXPo4q

Apple Podcast// https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builders-beyond-borders/id1841312899

Youtube// https://www.youtube.com/@BuildersBeyondBordersPodcast

Follow us on Facebook// https://www.facebook.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast/

Instagram// https://www.instagram.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast_/

In this episode, we dive into one of the hottest debates in Australian residential construction — timber framing vs steel and double brick. Whether you're a first-time home builder or looking to renovate sustainably, this chat offers real builder insights into why timber homes continue to win in flexibility, sustainability, cost-efficiency, and energy performance.

From passive house certifications to SIPs panels and green building materials, our experienced Aussie builders share the pros and cons of timber construction and what it means for the future of building across Melbourne, Perth, Canberra, and beyond.

Listen on Spotify// https://open.spotify.com/show/0eGpiuFZidHdOcFunXPo4q

Apple Podcast// https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builders-beyond-borders/id1841312899

Youtube// https://www.youtube.com/@BuildersBeyondBordersPodcast

Follow us on Facebook// https://www.facebook.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast/

Instagram// https://www.instagram.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast_/

Are you planning a new home build or renovation in Australia and wondering which trades you'll need along the way? In this episode of Builders Beyond Borders, seasoned Aussie builders Paul from Independent Building Solutions (Canberra), Louise from Perway Constructions (Perth), and Hugh from New Realm Homes (Melbourne) break down the full list of trades involved in building a home—from pre-construction consultants to the finishing touch of rendering and flooring.

This is a must-listen for first-time homeowners, renovators, or anyone curious about how many professionals it really takes to build a house. You'll hear real-world stories, practical coordination tips, and valuable insights into the lessons learned, common building mistakes, and how to avoid scheduling disasters.

Whether you're building on a sand base in WA or pouring slabs in VIC, this episode helps you understand the essential roles of excavators, concreters, carpenters, bricklayers, surveyors, plasterers, and more. You'll also learn why trade shortages are increasing and how to plan ahead.

✅ Great for those seeking construction advice, renovation tips, or working with custom home builders across Australia.

Listen on Spotify// https://open.spotify.com/show/0eGpiuFZidHdOcFunXPo4q

Apple Podcast// https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builders-beyond-borders/id1841312899

Youtube// https://www.youtube.com/@BuildersBeyondBordersPodcast

Follow us on Facebook// https://www.facebook.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast/

Instagram// https://www.instagram.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast_/

If you're building or renovating and want to avoid common pitfalls, this episode is a must-listen. Paul Kennedy from Independent Building Solutions in Canberra, Hugh Maasstricht from New Realm Homes in Melbourne, and Louise Kearns from Perway Constructions in Perth share the biggest lessons learned from their combined decades in the Australian construction industry.

From scheduling mishaps to client miscommunications, they unpack real-life scenarios that highlight the building mistakes many homeowners unknowingly make—and how to avoid them. Whether you're planning a renovation or custom build, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what truly matters when working with experienced builders.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why outdated plans can completely derail a project

• How to avoid costly variations with upfront planning

• Tips to improve communication between homeowners and trades

• The role of technology and systems in stress-free building

• Why clear selection processes make or break client satisfaction

• How Aussie builders reflect after every project to improve systems

• What NOT to do if you want to stay on schedule and budget

• Common renovation errors homeowners should watch out for

This Episode Is For You If:

✔ You're a first-time homeowner or building your dream home

✔ You want to learn from real building mistakes others have made

✔ You're managing multiple trades and want a smoother experience

✔ You want honest advice from long-time Australian builders

✔ You're ready to plan and build smarter—not harder

Listen on Spotify// https://open.spotify.com/show/0eGpiuFZidHdOcFunXPo4q

Apple Podcast// https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/builders-beyond-borders/id1841312899

Youtube// https://www.youtube.com/@BuildersBeyondBordersPodcast

Follow us on Facebook// https://www.facebook.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast/

Instagram// https://www.instagram.com/buildersbeyondborderspodcast_/