Building with Taya

07/09/2026

🏡 First home buyers, have you heard about the changes?

Buying or building your first home in WA has become a little easier.

First home buyers can now pay no stamp duty on vacant land up to $450,000, with a reduced rate available up to $550,000.

The property cap for the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant has also increased to $800,000.

That could make a big difference when you're trying to get into your first home.

Not sure what you might qualify for? Have a chat with your broker first, then I'm always happy to help you work out what you could build within your budget.

02/09/2026

🌿 Thinking about buying in regional WA? You're not the only one.

Regional property prices have continued to grow, and the South West is very much part of that story.

Recent REIWA figures showed Bunbury's median house sale price was up 15.6% over the year.

For buyers, there's a simple lesson here: don't just look at the price of the house.

Look at the land, location and long-term potential too.

Sometimes a slightly different suburb or town can give you a better block, a better home and more value for your overall budget.

If you're looking at land around the South West and aren't sure what you can build on it, send it through. I'm happy to have a look.

17/08/2026

A little colour inspiration from our beautiful Yalyalup Retreat display 🎨🏡

Love seeing the thought behind the colour palette and finishes that bring this home together.
If you're looking for ideas for your own build, this one is definitely worth a visit!

11/08/2026

🏡 Got a big backyard? This one is worth watching.

The WA Government has proposed changes to the R-Codes that could make it easier for some property owners to subdivide.

One of the biggest proposed changes relates to R20 blocks. Under the proposal, some blocks around 700m² could potentially be subdivided, where the current average lot size requirement can mean around 900m² is needed.

The important word is proposed. It doesn't mean every 700m² block can suddenly be split!

Things like your block dimensions, sewer, access, local planning rules and existing house still matter.

If you've got a block and you're wondering what might be possible, I'm always happy to take a look.

05/08/2026

Looking for a smarter way to build?

This dual key house and land package in Capel offers incredible flexibility, whether you're looking to generate rental income, accommodate extended family, or give older kids their own space while staying close to home.

From $956,276

✔ Dual key design
✔ Potential rental income
✔ Ideal for multigenerational living
✔ Fantastic location in Capel

Interested in learning more? Check out the full package here:

https://www.wacountrybuilders.com.au/house-and-land-packages/lot-60-hawley-parkway-capel-wa-6271-qelajp/

Or send me a message if you'd like to explore your options. There may be other blocks or designs that suit your goals even better.

House & Land Package – Capel Discover flexible family living in the relaxed surrounds of Tuart Grove Estate, Capel. The Shark Bay by WA Country Builde...

31/07/2026

A little update from me.

I’ve recently joined the team at WA Country Builders as a New Home Consultant here in the South West.

It feels like a really good fit. I still get to do the part of this job I enjoy most, helping people work through their block, their ideas and what will actually suit the way they want to live. Now I get to do that with a huge range of designs and a team that has been building across regional WA for more than 30 years.

This page will stay as Building with Taya.

I’ll keep sharing practical building advice, local land opportunities, house and land packages, design ideas and the things I come across while I’m out visiting blocks and homes around the South West.

There will be plenty of WA Country Builders content too, but I still want this page to feel useful, honest and like you’re dealing with a real person.

If you have a block already, you’re looking at land or you simply don’t know where to begin, feel free to send me a message.

I’m looking forward to this next chapter.

30/06/2026

Got a block with a view?

One of my favourite parts of the job is helping clients design homes that make the most of their site.

Whether it's an estuary outlook in Australind, a rural vista, ocean glimpses or bushland surrounds, the right design can completely change how you experience your home.

The good news is that custom design is often more achievable than people think.

Many people assume a custom home automatically means a huge budget, but in reality, making smart changes to suit your block can often provide far better value than trying to force a standard design onto a unique site.

A well-designed home can capture natural light, maximise views, improve privacy and create spaces you'll enjoy every day.

If you've got a block and you're wondering what's possible, I'd love to take a look and help you explore some ideas.

Message me here or call 0461 359 534.

23/06/2026

Why does building a home take so long?

It's a fair question, and the answer is that construction is only one part of the journey.

Before a slab goes down, there's a lot happening behind the scenes. Site surveys, engineering, drafting, energy assessments, council requirements, building permits, HIA insurance, developer approvals and compliance with WA's 7-star energy efficiency requirements.

Each of these steps is important because they help ensure your home is safe, compliant and built to last.

Once construction starts, your home then moves through multiple stages involving trades, inspections and quality checks before handover.

At Shelford Homes, construction typically takes around 10-12 months, which is well in line with current industry standards.

While everyone would love to move in sooner, taking the time to get things right is what delivers a quality home at the end of the process.

If you're thinking about building and want to better understand the journey from block to handover, I'm always happy to chat.

Message me here or call 0461 359 534.

18/06/2026

One of the biggest trends I'm seeing right now is a move towards warmer, more natural colours.

The days of everything being bright white and grey are starting to soften. More clients are choosing warm whites, earthy tones, timber accents and natural textures that make a home feel welcoming and lived in.

We're also seeing:
• Feature stone and textured render
• Warm timber cabinetry
• Soft greens and muted coastal colours
• Curves and feature lighting
• Indoor-outdoor spaces that feel connected

The best part? Trends come and go, but good design never goes out of style.

If you're planning a build and wondering what colours and finishes will stand the test of time, I'd love to help.

Message me here or call 0461 359 534.

14/06/2026

Have you been following the recent Federal Budget announcements?

One of the biggest talking points has been the proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax, with new builds set to receive favourable treatment compared to established homes. Under the proposed changes, negative gearing would be limited to new residential builds from July 2027, while investors in new builds may continue to access concessions not available on established properties.

What does that mean in practical terms?

For many investors, it could make building a new home a more attractive option than purchasing an existing property. The government's stated goal is to encourage the delivery of more housing supply across Australia.

Of course, everyone's circumstances are different, so it's important to seek advice from your accountant or financial adviser before making any investment decisions.

What I can help with is understanding the building side of the equation. Land, design, specifications, budgets and the process of turning an empty block into a completed home.

If you've been considering an investment build, now might be a good time to explore your options.

Message me here or call 0461 359 534.