As 2025 ushers in new trends and opportunities for homebuyers, house and land packages remain a popular option for those seeking to enter the property market. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upgrading to your forever home or downsizing to suit your lifestyle, choosing the right house and land package requires careful consideration. From selecting the perfect lot to finding the right builder, here’s what you need to know when selecting a house and land package in 2025.

1. The Perfect Location: A Community That Matches Your Lifestyle

   Location is often the most crucial factor in selecting a house and land package. In 2025, homebuyers should consider not only the aesthetics of a neighbourhood but also its practical aspects. Taking the time to drive through the streets and assess existing homes can provide valuable insight into the housing style and buyer demographic.

   • Local Amenities: Is the area close to supermarkets, healthcare, and recreational facilities? Proximity to schools, childcare, and parks is especially important for growing families. The convenience of having essential services nearby can add long-term value to your home.
   • Community Design: Communities like Lucas are designed around green spaces, walking trails, and bike paths to not only promote a healthier lifestyle but also contribute to the area’s appeal.
   • Study the master plan: Study that master plan to see what the future environment will be like. Then visit the location – take a walk, use the parks, tracks and trails and get a feel for what the neighbourhood is like.

2. Understand the Median House Price

   Understanding the median house price helps new home builders assess the market value, ensure their investment aligns with local trends, and avoid overpaying for land in the suburb. If you’re seeking higher returns, targeting a suburb with a higher median price could be advantageous, as it indicates strong demand and potential for property value appreciation.

   • Median House price for Lucas is $627,750.
   • Alfredton is $610,000
   • Bonshaw is $512,000
   • Winter Valley is $550,000

   *Source: REIV Quarterly Results Dec Quarter 2024

3. Lot Considerations: The Shape and Size

   In 2025, lot sizes are evolving. In Lucas you will find a variety of lot sizes and shapes to suit different types of homes. Here are some important considerations:

   • Size and Shape of the Lot: Look for a lot that matches your lifestyle and the kind of home you want to build. Smaller, more affordable lots are often located closer to parks or retail centres, while larger blocks are more suitable for families seeking spacious backyards.
   • Topography and Orientation: Is the land flat or sloped? A flat lot is ideal for quick and cost-effective construction, especially for volume builders. However, a sloped block can offer views and interest to landscaping and home design, though it may require a more custom build, which can increase your overall costs. Also, consider how the lot is oriented. A backyard that faces the afternoon sun is often preferred for outdoor entertaining.

4. Future Growth Potential: Is the Area Set to Appreciate?

   Consider the long-term investment potential of your new home. Look at the infrastructure plans for the area in the coming years. In Lucas new transport links are soon to be developed as well as plans for a three-story private hospital. With land earmarked for a future Loreto college and a new swim school on the way choosing a location with future growth potential will ensure that your property appreciates in value over time.

5. The Right Builder:

   To find the right builder for your new home, start by visiting a variety of display homes. A great place to begin is at the Lucas Display Village on Blomeley Drive, where you can explore homes from 17 different builders all in one convenient location. This allows you to compare styles, designs, and quality across multiple builders, helping you make an informed decision.

   Once you’ve found a design you love, it’s time to dive deeper into the details with the builder. Here are some important questions to ask:

   • What’s Included and What’s Not? Display homes often showcase premium finishes and appliances and we all love them for this reason, but these may not be included in the standard package. Make sure to clarify exactly what’s included in the base price and what will incur additional costs. You might be pleasantly surprised with the extras on offer with many builders offering special deals right now.
   • Layout Flexibility: Many buyers want to tweak the layout of their new home to better suit their needs, but not all changes may be possible. Ask the builder how flexible they are when it comes to customising the design and if changes will impact the timeline or budget.
   • Construction Timeline: Understand when construction will start and how long the process will take. Builders often give an estimated completion date, but it’s important to confirm these details upfront to avoid any surprises.
   • Sustainability Features: With the rising cost of utilities, energy-efficient features are becoming increasingly important. Ask the builder what sustainability elements are included in the home’s design, such as solar panels, energy-efficient insulation, or water-saving systems.

   By visiting the Lucas Display Village, you’ll be able to gather all the information you need to make an informed choice about the right builder for your new home.

Wrap Up

In 2025, buying a house and land package offers many benefits, from customisation options to the excitement of creating a home tailored to your needs. By considering the right location, lot, builder, and growth factors you can make a smart decision that will serve you for years to come.

Take your time, ask the right questions, and remember that buying a home is a significant investment. Integra is proud to have been part of peoples home journeys for 40 years, and by following these tips, you can feel confident that you’re setting yourself up for success in 2025’s housing market.

Disclaimer: note that past performance in relation to property prices, is no guarantee of future results. The Integra group of entities assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this post. You should seek independent advice (as applicable to your circumstances) in relation to your investment decisions.