In today’s podcast episode, we sit down with the passionate and dedicated developer, Jen Sinclair. Currently immersed in a thrilling build project on the Gold Coast, Jen takes us on a journey through her experiences, trials, and triumphs in the world of duplex development. With 18 months of intense planning and design work behind her, Jen candidly shares the emotional rollercoaster and grueling workload that accompanies this marathon-like venture.

Developing property can demand all of our attention, but that’s hard to give when you’re balancing it with motherhood. Jen shares the tightrope act of juggling work and personal life during this construction process. We dive into the added responsibilities and commitments that come with caring for children while simultaneously managing a demanding build project, as well as the pressure to be a "supermom".

Jen's approach to her duplex builds involves close collaboration with her builder right from the design phase. She discusses the benefits of having a builder who understands the specific requirements of the project and how this collaboration can lead to a smoother and more cost-effective process. By building trust and maintaining open lines of communication, builders and developers can create spaces that truly meet their desired outcomes.

We then discuss the unique considerations that come with building duplexes. Jen mentions the importance of selecting the right block with adequate street frontage or length, depending on the desired duplex configuration. Orientation and the surrounding properties are also crucial factors to consider in order to ensure proper sunlight and overall livability. Jenn emphasizes the value of engaging a designer familiar with multi-residential projects and focusing on the ventilation and other specific aspects of duplex construction.

Jen Sinclair's firsthand experiences as a developer are honest and practical. In this conversation, she shares invaluable insights into the emotional and physical demands of the construction journey and underscores the significance of collaboration with builders, meticulous site acquisition, and efficient feasibility planning.

LINKS:

• Buy our book: BuildHer, A practical guide to building and renovating
• BuildHer Website: https://buildhercollective.com.au/
• BuildHer Instagram: @buildhercollective
• BuildHer Facebook: Women who Design, Decorate, Renovate & Build
• Register for a call: https://go.oncehub.com/BuildHer

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