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Is It Cheaper to Build or Buy a Home in 2025? | Best Custom Home Builders Melbourne
When you are ready to own a home, the biggest question that comes to mind is- Is it cheaper to build or buy a home in 2025? Many people in Melbourne are trying to decide whether to build their dream home from scratch or buy an existing one.
At Aamico Homes, we are here to help you make a smart decision. As one of the Best Custom Home Builders Melbourne has to offer, and the trusted Residential Builders Melbourne, we know both sides of the story.
Building a Home in 2025: What You Need to Know
Building a new home is like starting with a blank page. You get to choose everything from the block of land, the layout, the finishes, and even the small details like tapware and tiles.

Here’s why many people love building:
Pros of Building a Home
- Custom Design: You can design your home exactly as you wish. Do you need a larger kitchen? Do you prefer open spaces? It is entirely up to you.
- Brand New Everything: All appliances, fittings, and materials are brand new and under warranty.
- Energy-Efficiency: New homes are built with the latest technology, insulation, and energy-saving features, saving you money on power bills.
- Low Maintenance: No surprises. No need to fix a leaking roof or old pipes.
Cons of Building a Home
- Takes Time: From land purchase to handover, building can take 6 to 12 months or longer, depending on the builder and approvals.
- Temporary Living Arrangements: You might need to rent during the build, which is an extra cost.
- Budget Creep: If not managed properly, costs can escalate due to upgrades or unforeseen site conditions.
Buying an Existing Home: Fast but Fixed
Buying a ready-built home is quicker and simpler upfront. You can visit open homes, find something you like, and move in once the settlement is done.
Here is what to consider:
Pros of Buying a Home
- Quick Move-In: Perfect if you need a home fast — just sign, settle, and move in.
- Established Suburbs: Many houses are often in more developed areas with schools, shops, and transport already nearby.
- See What You’re Getting: You can walk through the home, see the layout, feel the space, and know what to expect.
Cons of Buying a Home
- Renovation Costs: Older homes may need updates, repairs, or even big renovations.
- Hidden Issues: Problems with plumbing, wiring, or structure can lead to surprise expenses.
- Less Efficient: Older homes may not have insulation or energy-saving features, meaning higher bills.
- Not “You”: You’ll likely need to adjust to someone else’s choices in design and layout.
Comparing Costs: Which One is Cheaper in 2025?
This is the big question: Is it cheaper to build or buy a house in 2025?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are some key points:
Building Can Be Cheaper in the Long Run
- With Best Custom Home Builders Melbourne, like Aamico Homes, you get modern designs that save on energy and repairs.
- You may be eligible for First Home Owner Grants, especially when building new.
- You avoid costly repairs and renovations for years to come.
- You only pay for what you need — no wasted space or features.
Buying Can Be Easier Upfront
- You skip the wait time and can move in fast.
- Sometimes, buying an older home in the right location can be cheaper than buying land and building nearby.
But don’t forget: the older the home, the more likely you’ll need to spend on repairs or upgrades. Over time, those costs can add up.
What Do the Best Residential Builders in Melbourne Recommend?
At Aamico Homes, we believe that building is the better option if:
- You want a personalised home that reflects your style and needs.
- You are thinking long-term.
- You are happy to wait a little for the perfect result.
We make building easier, faster, and more affordable. As leading Residential Builders Melbourne, our team works closely with you from start to finish; from choosing land and designing your floor plan to handing over the keys.
Final Thoughts: Build or Buy?
Here is a quick summary to help you decide:
Factor | Building a Home | Buying a Home |
---|---|---|
Customisation | Full Control | Limited |
Energy Efficiency | High | Low |
Time to Move In | Slower | Fast |
Maintenance | Minimal | Higher |
Location Options | Flexible | More Established |
So… if you are after a home built just for you, and want to save in the long run, building could be the smarter choice in 2025.
Talk to Aamico Homes Today
Still deciding whether to build or buy? Let’s chat.
As one of the Best Custom Home Builders Melbourne and experienced Residential Builders Melbourne, we’ll help you compare your options and guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today or visit AamicoHomes.com.au to start planning your dream home.