Common Challenges with Prefab Homes and How Advance Build Solves Them

News & Updates Common Challenges with Prefab Homes and How Advance Build Solves Them
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31st Oct 2024

Prefabricated houses are changing the way New Zealanders think about home building. There’s a few reasons for this rise in popularity, as this innovative approach provides cost-certainty, sustainability, and efficient build times. Prefabricated homes really do seem to be an innovative solution to some of the major challenges in the residential construction industry. However, there are still many myths, questions and concerns surrounding this process. So let’s take some time to address some of the more common questions and myths surrounding prefabricated homes.


The Perception That Prefab Homes are “Cheap” or Low-Quality

Challenge: The myth that prefab homes are constructed to a lower quality standard than traditional builds.

Advance Build’s Solution: Quality is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to ensure that every prefabricated, transportable home meets the highest standards of durability and craftsmanship. Our homes are constructed in our built-for-purpose factory in Kerikeri – providing a controlled environment where quality control measures can be rigorously enforced at every stage of construction – something that can be extremely challenging with traditional builds that take place on site.

Clive Raines, one of our client’s from Russell said “Everyone involved wanted to ensure the product we ended up with was of the highest quality. We’re incredibly satisfied with the final outcome, I don’t think there’s anything we’d change.”


Prefabricated Homes Have Customisation Limitations

Challenge: The misconception that prefab homes are limited in customisation often worries potential buyers.

Advance Build’s Solution: At Advance Build, your home can reflect your lifestyle and preferences. We offer a wide range of customisable designs and flexible floor plans, allowing you to tailor every detail to suit your lifestyle. Whether you envision an open-plan living space or a cosy retreat, our team collaborates closely with you to bring your unique vision to life. Take inspiration from Paul and Vicky who built their dream home in Opononi
“People think that transportable only means a box, and actually it doesn’t! Advance Build have a lot of different floor plans, and we had one but wanted to make some changes – which the design team were happy to make. Everybody was just wanting to do the best for us, every call was taken, every concern we had was taken seriously, and always a solution.”


Challenges with Remote and Complex Site Locations

Challenge: Building in remote or challenging terrains can seem overwhelming.
Advance Build’s Solution: We specialise in delivering homes to the most remote locations, from Northland to Waikato. We prioritise thorough preparation by conducting comprehensive delivery route checks and logistical planning, tailoring our approach to each unique project. With nothing left to chance, we find innovative solutions to even the most complex sites.


Regulatory and Consent Issues:

Challenge: Navigating New Zealand’s intricate building regulations can be daunting.
Advance Build’s Solution: With over 15 years of experience, our team is well versed in guiding projects through the regulatory maze. We liaise with local councils to streamline the approval process, ensuring compliance and efficiency. Because every single project has a dedicated project manager you can relax while we make sure all the regulatory paperwork and consents are taken care of. Our ongoing communication means you’re kept up to speed, making the path to your new home smooth and more predictable.

“Everything was just made so easy for us. We enjoyed the process, and I think that’s why we’re loving the house so much – the hiccups weren’t there. We’ve had a number of people visit us and have a look our home, and they’re really impressed with what Advance Build have done.” says Advance Build clients Keith & Sherry Smith.


Transportation and Delivery Risks

Challenge: Concerns about transport damage, especially over tough terrains.
Advance Build’s Solution: Safety and reliability are our priorities. Partnering with experienced house movers, our secure transport methods ensure your home is safely delivered to site, overnight. One of the benefits of specialising in prefabricated, transportable homes, is that our homes are designed specifically with transportation in mind. Our skilled house-moving team ensures your home arrives safely to your site, ready for the final site-works to be completed, ready for you to move into your dream home!


Obtaining Finance for Prefab Homes

Challenge: Securing finance can be challenging due to lender unfamiliarity with prefab construction.
Advance Build’s Solution: While Advance Build doesn’t provide long-term finance, we do offer bridging finance to help facilitate your lender’s requirements. Traditional lenders often hesitate to finance manufactured homes due to limited security during the offsite manufacturing process. Our bridging finance fills this gap, ensuring that once the home is delivered to the site, the bank regains full security and can release the necessary funds.

To facilitate this, we offer alternative payment terms. Clients must have sufficient funds approved to complete the project, provide written evidence, and are required to pay a 10% deposit upon signing the contract agreement. We offer several fee options based on the total contract value:

  • Option 1: A 1% fee, 10% on signing the contract agreement with 80% payable on delivery and the final 10% at practical completion.
  • Option 2: A 2% fee,10% on signing the contract agreement with 90% payable at practical completion.
  • Option 3: A 3% fee,10% on signing the contract agreement with 90% due upon receipt of the Council Code of Compliance Certificate, This option is only available when Advance Build is responsible for all work required for CCC.

These options provide the necessary flexibility and support during the offsite manufacturing stage, ensuring a hassle-free experience in obtaining long-term financing on your prefabricated home. For more detailed information on available options, head to our finance page.


We’re Here to Answer Your Questions About Prefabricated Homes.

Prefabricated homes offer a unique and innovative approach to new builds, and at Advance Build, we tackle every challenge with a commitment to quality, timeliness, and exceptional customer service. From dispelling myths to navigating complexities, we ensure your journey to a new home is seamless and rewarding. We understand that for many people, the concept of prefabricated homes may be a new one for them, and welcome the opportunity to answer any questions to help you make an informed choice. Contact Advance Build today to discover how we can help you create a beautiful, quality home with ease and confidence. Let’s build your dream home together, because with Advance Build, it’s more than just construction; it’s a partnership.

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