Building Design, Prime Time

The price looked amazing online. The photos looked even better. But before you hand over a cent for a kit home, there's a lot Frank and Amelia need to tell you first.

In Part 2 of their kit homes series, Frank Geskus and host Amelia pull back the curtain on the traps, hidden costs, and hard-won lessons that most people only discover once it's too late. Frank shares real stories from the field — including some genuine doozies, that reveal just how wide the gap can be between what you think you're getting and what actually arrives on site.

You'll hear why that advertised price rarely reflects a finished home, what questions you absolutely must ask any kit supplier before committing, and why assuming all kits are created equal could cost you dearly. Frank and Amelia also tackle the owner builder reality head-on, the financing hurdles, the compliance obligations that don't disappear, and the critical question of who's responsible when things go wrong.

Plus, Frank shares a detailed checklist (available to download from the Prime Design website) so you actually know what to look for, because as Frank puts it, you don't know what you're checking if you don't know what you need.

Whether a kit home is right for you comes down to going in with your eyes wide open. This episode will help you do exactly that.

Subscribe now and tune in next week for a brand new episode of the Building Design Prime Time Podcast.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004.  Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at [email protected]

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts  do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company.  All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses,  or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

Thinking about building a kit home? Before you fall for that eye-catching starting price online, there's a lot more to understand than most people realise, and Frank and Amelia are here to cut through the noise.

In this first of a two-part series on kit homes, building designer Frank Geskus joins host Amelia to break down what a kit home actually is (and what it absolutely isn't). From modular homes and flat-pack builds to timber frame, steel frame, log cabin kits, and the ever-popular shouse, they walk through the key types of kit construction available in Australia, explaining the real differences, the genuine advantages, and the compliance requirements that don't disappear just because you bought a kit.

You'll learn why Australia's eight climate zones matter more than you think, why that advertised price rarely reflects a finished home, and why the Class 1 versus Class 10 distinction could be the most important thing you check before signing anything. Frank also unpacks the owner builder reality, the thermal bridging challenges specific to Tasmania's cooler climate, and why secondhand transportables and Facebook Marketplace "deals" are best left well alone.

Whether you're seriously exploring a kit home build or just curious about your options, this episode will give you the grounded, practical knowledge to ask the right questions and avoid costly mistakes.

Subscribe now so you don't miss Part 2 — coming in the next episode, where Frank and Amelia dive deep into the traps, hidden costs, misleading marketing, and the real question: should you actually be doing this?

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004.  Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at [email protected]

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts  do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company.  All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses,  or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

 The Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, hosted by Amelia and Frank Geskus, explains why "just getting plans drawn up" is a significant misconception,  construction documents involve far more than drawings, including site investigations, soil tests, surveys, bushfire assessments, and planning compliance. 

Frank and Amelia answer the questions nobody thinks to ask until it's too late. Why does cheap land so often turn out to be the most expensive land? What's lurking beneath your block that nobody's telling you about? Are you unknowingly breaking the law before construction even begins? And why do two builder quotes for the "same" house look nothing alike? These aren't hypotheticals, they're the conversations happening in Frank's office every single week.

Whether you're buying your first block, planning a renovation, or just starting to dream about a new build, this episode will fundamentally change how you approach the entire process.

Knowledge is protection. And in building, the right knowledge at the right time is worth more than any saving you'll find shopping around.

Subscribe and hit play now, and make sure you're asking the right questions before it costs you.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004.  Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at [email protected]

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts  do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company.  All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses,  or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

If you’re planning a renovation or home extension and wondering whether you can survive living through the chaos, this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast is a must-listen. Amelia and Frank dive into the real, unfiltered experience of renovating while still living in your home, from dust, noise, and tradies arriving at sunrise, to decision fatigue, budget blowouts, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with unexpected surprises behind the walls.

You’ll learn the difference between major internal renovations and “bolt-on” extensions, when it’s smarter to move out, how to prepare your home and family for the disruption, and why proper planning can save you thousands of dollars and months of stress. The episode is packed with practical advice from real-world experience, including how to manage timelines, communicate effectively with your builder, create temporary living zones, and avoid common renovation mistakes.

Frank and Amelia also share hilarious and relatable stories from their own renovation journeys, proving that while renovations can be messy and frustrating, the end result can absolutely be worth it.

Listen now and get the knowledge, mindset, and preparation you need before starting your next renovation project.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004.  Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at [email protected]

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts  do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company.  All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses,  or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

Ever wondered why you can’t start building even after you’ve “got your permit”? This episode unpacks one of the most confusing parts of the building process—planning permits vs building permits, and why misunderstanding the difference can cost you serious time and money.

Amelia and Frank break it down in a simple, no-jargon way, explaining how planning approval is all about what you’re allowed to build, from height limits and setbacks to overlays like bushfire, flood, and environmental constraints. They also dive into how these rules protect neighbours (think sunlight and privacy), but not always things like your view… which might surprise you.

From there, they move into building permits, the stage where your project is put under the microscope. This is where structural integrity, safety, compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC), and detailed documentation all come into play. With input from engineers, surveyors, and consultants, this is the step that ensures your home is actually built to last.

The episode also pulls back the curtain on how complex the system can be in Tasmania, including multiple layers of approvals, timeframes, and why trying to DIY your permits can backfire badly.

Most importantly, they hammer home a critical tip: the block you choose can make or break your entire project.

If you’re planning a build, buying land, or just want to avoid costly mistakes, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004.  Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at [email protected]

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts  do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company.  All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses,  or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, Amelia and Frank dive into a topic that many homeowners rarely think about, the hidden contaminants that can exist in homes, particularly when renovating or extending older properties. If you're planning a renovation, extension, or even a simple demolition project, there could be hidden contaminants that impact your health, your timeline, and your budget.

From asbestos and lead-based paint to mould, contaminated dust, and even soil contamination, older homes can contain a surprising range of materials that only become dangerous once they’re disturbed. Frank shares real stories from past renovation projects and personal experiences where unexpected discoveries brought work to a sudden stop. It’s a reminder that sometimes the biggest risks in a project are the things you can’t see.

The episode also explores why contaminants aren’t just a problem in older homes. Even newer houses can suffer from mould and moisture issues, often caused by poor ventilation or hidden leaks. Amelia and Frank discuss where these problems commonly occur, like under carpets, inside wall cavities, and in roof spaces, and how quickly they can escalate if they’re not identified early.

But this conversation isn’t just about the risks it’s about how to approach renovations smarter. Frank talks about when to test materials and when to call in specialists, and why doing a little investigation before you start demolition could save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress.

If you’re thinking about renovating, buying an older home, or simply want to understand what might be lurking in your house, this episode will change the way you look at renovation projects forever, and how it can keep you safer in your home.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004.  Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at [email protected]

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts  do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company.  All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses,  or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, Amelia and Frank tackle a surprisingly common mistake homeowners make spending money on features that don’t actually add value to their home.

From luxury upgrades to bold design choices, it’s easy to assume that investing more money into your home will automatically increase its resale price. But is that really the case? Frank shares real examples of homes with unique features that divide buyer opinions, including unusual architectural styles, highly personalised interiors, and expensive additions like pools. While some homeowners love these features, others see them as costly maintenance or something they’d immediately want to change.

The conversation also explores renovations that can unintentionally reduce a home’s appeal, like converting garages into living spaces, turning bedrooms into oversized ensuites, or installing trendy finishes that quickly date. They dive into the risks of overspending on luxury materials, complex smart-home technology that can become outdated, and the impact of poor DIY renovations or unapproved building work that could cause major headaches when it comes time to sell.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. Amelia and Frank also discuss the types of renovations that tend to add genuine value, practical upgrades, flexible spaces, and improvements that suit the style of the home and the surrounding suburb.

At the heart of the discussion is one important question: should you design for resale… or design for yourself?

If you’re planning a renovation or building project and want to avoid costly mistakes, this episode offers plenty of insights that could save you money, and help you make smarter design decisions.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004.  Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at [email protected]

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts  do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company.  All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses,  or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

You drive past your new home, expecting progress, and yet, nothing seems to be happening. No trades on site, no deliveries, no visible change. What’s going on? In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, Frank Geskus and Amelia Roach take you behind the scenes to uncover the real reasons a build can stall, and why so much of the work isn’t immediately visible.

From scheduling conflicts and delayed materials to inspections, safety requirements, and unavoidable site issues, they explain why a “quiet” site doesn’t always mean nothing is happening. They unpack the ripple effect of client decisions, showing how even small changes, like swapping a tile, window, or deck can impact timelines, trades, and costs.

Beyond logistics, Frank and Amelia shed light on the human side of building. They discuss how personal pressures, mental health, and life events affecting builders and trades can influence progress, and why clear communication is essential to keep everyone on track.

Listeners will hear real-life stories of site challenges, including foundation surprises, safety halts, and even shocking accidents, emphasising why professionalism, planning, and vigilance matter more than speed.

If you’ve ever felt frustrated watching your dream home slowly take shape, this episode is for you. Learn why the smoothest builds aren’t always the fastest, and discover how careful planning, strong communication, and the right team make all the difference in turning your vision into reality.

Tune in to understand the invisible work that keeps your project moving, and why sometimes, nothing happening is actually progress.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004.  Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at [email protected]

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts  do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company.  All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses,  or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

Building your first home should be exciting…but it’s also where the most expensive mistakes happen.

In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, Amelia and Frank unpack the real-world errors they see first home buyers make again and again, and why they can cost far more than you expect. From choosing looks over functionality to underestimating hidden costs, this episode pulls back the curtain on the decisions that quietly blow budgets and create long-term regret.

You’ll hear why “fixed price” doesn’t always mean fixed, how missing early planning costs can derail your build before it even starts, and the surprising ways site orientation, storage, and layout choices impact your comfort and energy bills for years to come. Frank also shares honest insights from decades in the industry, including why generic plans and cheap shortcuts often end up being the most expensive decisions of all.

If you’re planning your first home, or even thinking about it, this episode will help you avoid the traps most people don’t realise until it’s too late. It’s practical, straight-talking advice designed to save you stress, money, and sleepless nights.

Before you lock in your plans or sign a contract, make sure you hear this conversation. Your future self (and your bank account) will thank you.

And be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode. 

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004.  Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at [email protected]

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts  do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company.  All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses,  or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

Are homes today actually better than they were 25 years ago? or just more complicated?

In this episode, Frank and Amelia unpack the real impact of modern building regulations and what they mean for homeowners, builders, and anyone planning to build or renovate. From bushfire compliance and thermal performance to condensation risks and accessibility standards, this is a raw, honest look at how the industry is evolving behind the scenes.

You’ll hear why newer homes are warmer and potentially safer, but also why they’re more complex, more expensive, and far less forgiving when things go wrong. We dive into the hidden challenges many people don’t talk about, including mould risks in highly sealed homes, the growing mountain of compliance paperwork, and the education gap that still exists across the industry.

The episode also tackles big-picture questions:
 Are regulations moving faster than real-world building practices?
 Is housing becoming unaffordable because of higher standards?
 And are we truly building healthier, longer-lasting homes? or just ticking boxes?

Whether you’re planning a new build, working in the industry, or simply curious about how building standards are changing, this conversation will give you a clearer perspective on what’s really happening in modern housing.

If you want to understand the trade-offs shaping today’s homes, and the questions you should be asking before you build, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004.  Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at [email protected]

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts  do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company.  All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses,  or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.