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What we learned when we built our own home (Building)

The Wānaka App

Matt and Jolanda Williams

21 September 2020, 8:30 PM

What we learned when we built our own home (Building)

Before Matt and I wore the Build7 badge, we were the customer; we were in the market for a new home and didn't know where to start. We were uncertain of what we could afford, what a builder could offer to us and whether we could trust the process of each unique builder we considered. Then, we had our Build7 experience, which from top to bottom changed our perception of what a new home build could be. Today I'm writing to share some of the valuable lessons we learned while going through our Build7 project; I wonder which of these you might relate to?


We learned that an architecturally designed home wasn't out of our reach.


Matt and I were convinced that we couldn't afford a new home. It wasn't until we had our complimentary consultation with the Build7 team that we realised that the process was much easier than we had first imagined. We were introduced to the right people to help us secure finance, narrow down our design, and guide us through the hunt for a section. The team at Build7 helped us to visualise and realise our dream of a home built just for us. 


Matt and I feel so lucky to get to now offer that same experience to the Central Otago community.



We learned that great builds start with good relationships and blank pieces of paper.


When someone is about to make one of the most significant purchases of their life, it's reasonable to think that they should expect to be listened to. When we sat down with our Customer Relationship Manager, we were comforted by how attentive they were in listening to our vision, and how easy it seemed for them to transform our wish-list into a workable plan. They then discussed our ideas with the design team and in just a short time we had floor-plans and 3D renders of what our dream home would look like. The relationship between the team and the client is crucial to the success of a new build. That's why we endeavour to provide our undivided attention to every client and pride ourselves on our ability to LISTEN to what they have to say. 


Our inspiration home is an expression of possibility and will be opening soon.


We learned that we didn't have to pay a deposit until Build7 had nailed our dream home footprint.


For all the work just mentioned we didn't pay a dime. This showed us just how invested Build7  were in delivering what we wanted before expecting anything from us in return. It wasn't until every revision was made, and every question was answered that we were presented with the decision to invest in our plans and make them a reality.


We learned that contracts don't need to be scary.


There's an excitement that comes from knowing that you're getting what you want. There's an added confidence that comes from knowing that you were listened to; a feeling of importance and ownership that happens when you are given unlimited access. Build7 made us feel like we were the directors. We were the experts on what our home should be and like and they were the supporting cast and crew who made that dream come to life. We were equipped with everything we needed to sign our documents with confidence and cheer.


We loved the intuitive mobile app.


Through the app we were given access to the same project management tools that the build team uses and the same goes for every client we serve. That means that from the ground up, every customer can see every conversation, every tradesperson, every subcontractor quote, every update and every supplier. Clients can have open discussions with project managers and suppliers about pricing when selecting their internal finishes. This made us feel like we were in control, as we used the app.


We learned to be patient with the process.


Since we could see everything that was happening in the app, we learned that we could trust the team to keep us up to date with all developments. Every build has its own unique setbacks and adjustments, from inclement weather to shifts in material deliveries and trade availability. Through it all, we had the information we needed. We were never let down and were handed over our home earlier than the predetermined move-in date, despite those inevitable "roll-with-the-punches" moments.


We experienced how and why Build7's bespoke client experience is like no other, and we're now thrilled to be helping our clients through their own builds. 


Whether it’s a burning question, a comment or a simple chat, our focus is you.

Contact us today:

Matt Williams - [email protected]. Tel: 021 946 110.

Jolanda Williams - [email protected]. Tel: 027 448 5164

Or click here to visit our website.