118 – Steve Robson – What every property developer should know about builders
Property Developer PodcastShow Notes
If you're a property developer, one of the most important relationships you'll ever have is with your builder. Yet surprisingly few developers ever get the chance to hear how builders actually think.
In this episode, I sit down with Steve Robson, Director of Hickory Homes, to explore property development from the builder's perspective. Steve started his career as a carpenter before establishing Hickory Homes, where he specialises in custom homes, difficult sites and high-quality residential construction. Having also completed his own duplex developments, Steve understands the challenges from both sides of the table. "The cheapest quote isn't always the cheapest project." Together we discuss the practical realities of building in today's market, why construction costs have escalated so dramatically, what developers often misunderstand about builders, and how stronger builder–developer relationships can save both time and money.
Whether you're planning your first duplex or your tenth townhouse development, this episode is packed with practical insights that could improve your next project. In this episode we discuss:
Why developers should engage a builder much earlier in the design process. How involving a builder before detailed documentation can save significant redesign costs. The biggest mistakes developers make before construction even begins. Why builders dislike giving simple "$ per square metre" estimates. What actually goes into preparing an accurate building quote. Why two builders can legitimately produce very different prices for the same project. The impact of rising construction costs on builders and developers. Design decisions that quietly add tens of thousands of dollars to a build budget, including steelwork, cantilevers and complex roof designs. Fixed-price contracts versus cost-plus contracts. Managing variations and why timing matters. How to choose the right builder - not just the cheapest builder. The importance of communication, trust and building long-term relationships. Steve's lessons from completing his own duplex developments. Whether joint ventures between builders and developers can create better outcomes.
Top 5 takeaways from this episode 1. Engage your builder early
One of Steve's strongest messages is to involve a builder once you have preliminary plans - not after you've spent thousands on engineering and consultant reports. Early input can improve buildability, simplify construction and avoid expensive redesigns later.
2. Don't compare builders on $/m²
Every project is different. Site conditions, specifications, structural complexity and finishes all influence price, making square metre rates a poor comparison tool.
3. Great builders help shape the design
Builders don't simply construct what's on the plans. Their experience can identify costly design features, simplify construction and improve project feasibility before construction starts.
4. The cheapest quote isn't always the cheapest project
A low tender may hide unrealistic provisional sums or create a reliance on variations later. Steve explains why understanding the whole proposal is more important than simply comparing price.
5. Building is a relationship business
A construction project lasts many months, sometimes years. Choosing a builder you trust, who communicates well and shares your values, often has a far greater impact than saving a few thousand dollars at contract signing. About Steve Robson Steve Robson is the Director of Hickory Homes, a Melbourne-based custom home builder specialising in weatherboard homes, challenging sites and high-quality residential construction. After beginning his career as a carpenter, Steve established Hickory Homes and has since built a reputation for craftsmanship, honest communication and strong client relationships. Alongside building for clients, he has also completed his own duplex developments, giving him valuable insight into the challenges developers face. Propert
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