Children along with the entire contents of the back half of the house were relocated to the front of the house while works were in progress, nightmare on its own!

We did look at selling and moving but like where we live, get on well with the neighbours and with moving costs, stamp duty etc. we have come out spending about the same but now have the house exactly as we wanted, where we wanted it.

I did get three rough quotes for the works which varied from $165 to $200k. There was no way I was prepared to pay that amount plus the interest on the loan so decided Owner Build again. We have now completed the project for around $110 but this also includes the pool ( quoted 25k ) and ducted heating (4.5k ) not allowed for in the original builders quotes.

We still have to finish the landscaping, again not allowed for by the builders, decking, new gates and garage door. We estimate another $10,000 but we are able to complete these things at our own pace as we can afford to do them.

We started off ok but as work progressed had to employ more people than I had originally anticipated and we decided to change some things so the costs did blow out a little. Once you have your budget stick to it. If you find you are saving money along the way put that aside as you will have underestimated something. 

Still very happy with the result although it can put a bit of a strain on your marriage and can take you out of your social circle as every weekend is taken up with building works.