Deciding where and how to call home is one of life’s biggest choices. And in Perth’s evolving property market, it can feel exciting, but it can come with its challenges. Do you move straight into an established house, with its charm and convenience? Or do you take the thrilling leap and build a home that’s designed around exactly how you live?
Every choice comes with trade-offs, and the right path depends on your lifestyle, priorities, and long-term goals. So let’s make the choice simpler for you by breaking down the main opportunities, challenges and hidden factors of both options. That way, you can make a decision that’s not just smart, but that feels right for you and your family.
Perth property in 2026 — What’s changed?
Perth’s property landscape in 2026 is full of possibilities. Some suburbs have seen house prices settle, giving buyers and builders a little breathing room. At the same time, there’s a rising appetite for energy-efficient, modern homes that cater to today’s lifestyle needs.
A big part of that shift is the new 7-Star energy efficiency standard for new homes in Western Australia. Builders now need to meet higher design and sustainability benchmarks, which means better insulation, smarter orientation and lower running costs for homeowners.
For new builds, these standards aren’t just regulations. They’re an opportunity to design a home that’s more comfortable to live in, cheaper to run, and ready for the future.
For Perth families and professionals, lifestyle now matters as much as location. It’s all about being close to schools, work, recreational spaces and weekend escapes. And that’s where the big question comes in: do you buy an established home and move in straight away, or build a brand-new home designed perfectly around your life?
Building a new home means you get to shape every corner of your space. Whereas buying an established home can be quicker and more convenient. But it may come with sacrifices, like hidden maintenance costs or renovations you didn’t plan for.
What’s good about buying an existing home?
1. Move in sooner
Many established homes are ready to go, so you can settle in and start enjoying your new life without the wait of construction.
2. Established neighbourhoods
These homes are often settled in mature communities with parks, schools and local amenities already in place. This gives you a sense of community straight away.
3. Convenience of location
Living close to work, schools, transport and weekend escapes means more time for the things that matter, and a whole lot less time stuck in traffic.
4. Character and charm
Older homes often have unique features or architectural details that add personality and a sense of history to your living space.
Things to watch out for before you buy
1. Hidden maintenance
Older homes can come with surprises. Roofs, plumbing or electrical systems might need attention sooner than you expect, and this can mean extra costs and headaches.
2. Layout compromises
Not every home will flow the way you live. Rooms might feel awkward or limit how you use the space day-to-day.
3. Renovation costs
Bringing an older home up to date, whether it’s style, functionality or energy efficiency, can take time. And often costs more than planned.
4. Less energy efficiency
Many established homes weren’t built for modern sustainability standards, which can mean higher energy bills and less comfort through the seasons.
Why building a home could be the smart choice
1. Design freedom and personalisation
When you build, you’re in full control. You can create layouts that match your daily routines, areas that flow naturally, and features that suit the way you actually love to live. With Stannard Home’s bespoke design process, you can ensure that your home is tailored to complement your lifestyle.
2. Modern materials and energy efficiency
New homes in Perth give you access to the latest materials, insulation and energy-efficient appliances. Smart, sustainable choices reduce running costs and keep your home comfortable all year, even through WA’s hot summers. Our team of experts will work with you to select premium materials that balance aesthetics and functionality.
3. Warranties and peace of mind
With a new build, every element comes checked, approved, and backed by builder guarantees. You won’t inherit hidden issues like termites, asbestos or outdated plumbing. To ensure top-quality workmanship is delivered, our team oversees each stage of the construction process as expert tradespeople craft your dream home.
4. Long-term value and investment
Building a new home in a growing Perth suburb can offer strong long-term value. Modern designs, energy efficiency and tailored layouts make your home more attractive to future buyers if you ever decide to move. As trusted Perth homebuilders with over 60 years of experience, we are well-equipped to transform your vision into a home that stands the test of time.
5. Lifestyle integration
From proximity to schools and transport to creating indoor-outdoor flow for summer gatherings, building lets you design a home that fits your lifestyle in the area you love. You’re not just choosing a house; you’re creating a life. When working with our expert designers at Stannard Homes on your dream home vision, they will be able to fine-tune a layout that aligns well with your lifestyle.
6. Flexibility for future needs
A new build lets you plan ahead, whether that’s adding extra bedrooms, a home office or flexible spaces for teenagers. Your home can evolve with you, rather than feeling cramped as your needs change. At Stannard Homes, we ensure every detail is future-focused and crafted around your lifestyle, ensuring your home grows as seamlessly as it is built.
Hidden costs to watch out for when building new
1. Site-works and block preparation
Even a seemingly “ready to build” block can surprise you. Things like clearing trees, levelling the land, installing retaining walls or dealing with heavy clay soil can all add up.
2. Provisional sums and inclusions that aren’t finalised
If parts of your build are left as “to be confirmed later” (e.g., fixtures, plumbing upgrades, special finishes) you might end up paying more than you budgeted once those estimates become actual costs.
3. Delays, changes and upgrades
Want that extra pantry, bigger alfresco or slicker finishes part-way through the build? Changes can mean more labour, more materials and longer timelines. And those push-outs and extras tend to bump up the total cost.
4. External connections & finishing touches
Your build cost might cover the shell and basic interior, but things like driveway, fencing, external lighting, landscaping, window treatments, air-conditioning and connection fees can sneak up on you if they aren’t clearly included.
The Stannard Homes Difference
At Stannard Homes, families are never left guessing. From the outset, you’ll receive clear, comprehensive pricing with no hidden extras, no inflated provisional sums and no surprise add-ons down the track. Every inclusion is discussed upfront, every detail is documented, and every stage is communicated with precision and care. Our meticulous planning and streamlined processes also minimise delays, so your build stays on track and your family can enjoy the excitement of creating a new home without having to manage unpredictable costs or shifting expectations.
Build or buy a house — The long-term verdict
As you’ve seen, both paths have their own appeal. Buying an established home can get you settled quickly, especially if location and convenience are your top priorities. You’ll join an existing community and start living the lifestyle you want almost immediately.
But if your focus is on longevity, comfort and creating something truly yours, building a new home often comes out ahead. You can design for the way you actually live, from orientation and flow to future flexibility.
At the end of the day, the right choice comes down to what you value most. But for many Perth families ready to build their forever home, starting fresh means more than just a blank canvas. It’s the chance to create a space that grows alongside them and feels distinctly their own.
Explore what’s possible for your dream home with Stannard
At Stannard Homes, we’ve been helping Perth families create homes that truly fit their lifestyle for over 60 years. Whether you’re ready to build from the ground up or you’re simply exploring your options, our friendly design consultants can guide you through the entire journey.
Love where you live and want a home that grows with you? A custom rebuild could be the perfect solution. Visit our display homes or book a no-obligation chat, and let’s create a home that’s unmistakably yours. One that’s designed around you, your family, and the way life feels best for you.
