Everything You Need To Know Before You Start Your Build!

If you’re dreaming of building a home in Christchurch, chances are you’ve got a few questions. And rightly so–designing and building your own home is a big decision, full of exciting choices and important considerations.

At Hallmark Homes, we’ve been guiding families in Christchurch and New Zealand through the home journey for over 30 years. Whether it’s your first build or your forever home, we believe transparency is key. In this blog, we’ve answered five of the most common questions we hear from people just like you.

1. How long does it take to build a home in Christchurch?

The typical timeline for a build ranges from 4 to 10 months. This can vary depending on the complexity of your design, section conditions, council approval timeframes, and of course, the Christchurch weather!

At Hallmark Homes, we provide two build schedules to keep you fully informed. The first is a draft timeline given at the contract stage, offering a general overview of the process. Once we begin on site, we issue a more accurate, detailed schedule that reflects the actual build timeline. We keep you updated every step of the way–no guessing games–just clear communication and dependable progress.

1. Do I need my own architect or plans to build with Hallmark?

Not at all! We offer an in-house architectural design service, and many of our clients work directly with our team to create a one-of-a-kind home that reflects their lifestyle.

If you already have plans from your own architect, that’s great too. We’re flexible, and happy to collaborate with outside professionals to bring your vision to life.

1. Do I need a section before contacting Hallmark?

The short answer is—no, you don’t need to have land to get started!
If you already have a section, that’s great—we can begin bringing your dream home to life straight away. But if you don’t, that’s no problem either. We work closely with Christchurch developers and can help you find a section that suits your lifestyle and budget.

We also offer a range of House and Land packages across popular locations like Ravenswood, Marshlands, Prebbleton, and Rolleston—all ready to kick off the build process when you are.

1. How much does a home cost in Christchurch?

The cost of building a home in Christchurch can vary based on several factors, such as the design, size, specifications, and site conditions.

At Hallmark Homes, our builds in Christchurch start from $370,000, with pricing increasing based on the level of customisation you’re after. Whether you’re looking for a simple, stylish design or something fully bespoke, we’ll work closely with you to create a home that reflects your vision and fits your budget!

1. Can I supply my own materials for my new home if it’s cheaper?

Yes, we’re happy to work with you if you prefer to supply your own materials. If you have trusted suppliers or access to more cost-effective options, we’ll do our best to incorporate them into your build. At Hallmark Homes, we aim to be flexible and collaborative to help you get the best value without compromising on quality. 

At Hallmark Homes, we don’t just build houses–we build trust, relationships, and homes that reflect the people who live in them. If you’re thinking about building in Christchurch, we’d love to help you navigate the process with confidence, creativity, and care.

Ready to talk about your dream home?

Let’s chat. Whether you’re just starting to plan or ready to get started, our team is here to help. Get in touch with us today!

Have more questions? Feel free to check out the FAQ section on our website or get in touch with us directly. We’d love to answer any questions you might have!