May 17th, 2025

Construction Stage Payment Breakdown: How Progress Payments Work in New Builds

Home Construction

Navigating Your Queensland Home Construction Payment Schedule

Starting a new home build in Queensland requires a clear understanding of the payment schedule. Payments are released progressively as various stages of the construction are completed, helping you manage cash flow efficiently while keeping your builder on track.

Standard Construction Stage Payment Breakdown

Builders in Queensland typically follow a staged payment structure similar to the table below:

Stage Typical % of Contract Price Description
Deposit 5% Paid at contract signing
Base/Slab 10–15% Completion of slab or stumps with certification
Frame 15–20% Structural frame erected and inspected
Lock-Up 20–25% Home secured with roof, doors, and windows installed
Fixing/Fit-Out 20–30% Installation of kitchen, bathrooms, cabinetry, tiling, and plumbing
Completion 10% Final inspection, handover, and securing the occupancy permit

Case Example: $750,831 House & Land Package

For instance, a typical package might be broken down as follows:

  • Land: $345,500 paid at settlement
  • House: $405,331 disbursed in stages as detailed below
Stage % of House Build Amount
Deposit 5% $20,266
Base 15% $60,800
Frame 20% $81,066
Lock-Up 25% $101,333
Fixing 25% $101,333
Completion 10% $40,533

Overall Payment Timeline

  • Land Settlement: $345,500 due at the time of land registration
  • House Build: $405,331 to be paid over approximately 6–8 months

Managing Your Stage Payments

Consider these tips to ensure smooth financial management during construction:

  • Verify Each Stage: Only release funds once each stage has been properly certified as complete.
  • Loan Drawdowns: Interest is typically charged only on the funds that have been drawn down.
  • Contingency Budget: It’s wise to reserve an extra 5–10% for unexpected expenses or upgrades.

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Builder Inspecting Frame

Final Thoughts

Construction finance is structured for flexibility, but staying engaged is crucial. Always confirm that each milestone is fully met before releasing the next payment, ensuring your build stays on time and within budget.

Planning your new home or comparing house & land packages? Start building your investment profile today by visiting chat.investorprofile.com.au.

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