Building a home in Shoalhaven offers the opportunity to embrace coastal living, breathtaking views, and a lifestyle designed around quality and comfort. But one of the first questions homeowners ask is: How much does it cost to build a home in Shoalhaven in 2025?

The answer depends on several factors—land conditions, design complexity, material selections, and builder expertise. At Sureline Building Group, we believe in transparency, helping our clients navigate these considerations to achieve the best outcome for their investment.

Whether you’re considering a custom architectural home or a major renovation, this guide will provide insight into the real costs of building in Shoalhaven, what to expect in 2025, and how to keep your project on track.

What Affects the Cost of Building in Shoalhaven?

Site Conditions and Location

Shoalhaven’s diverse landscape means site conditions can vary significantly. Sloping blocks, coastal locations, and difficult access sites require advanced engineering and structural reinforcements to ensure stability and longevity.

Design Complexity

A single-storey home is more cost-effective than a multi-level architectural residence with expansive glazing, intricate detailing, and premium materials. Our Alice Street and Ethel Avenue projects showcase this level of complexity, incorporating high-end finishes and striking contemporary designs that elevate both form and function.

Material Selections and Finishes

Luxury materials significantly impact costs. Natural stone, premium timber, custom joinery, and high-performance glazing all enhance durability and aesthetics but require a higher investment.

We work with architects and clients to balance luxury with efficiency, ensuring that material selections align with both design aspirations and budget expectations.

Labour and Construction Timelines

High-end homes require skilled trades and precise execution. Our approach ensures specialist craftsmanship, meticulous detailing, and efficient project management to deliver projects on time without compromising quality.

Landscaping, Pools, and Outdoor Spaces

Beyond the home itself, landscaping, pools, and outdoor living areas add value and functionality but must be factored into the overall budget. Many clients choose to integrate these features during the design phase to achieve a cohesive, high-end result.

Estimated Building Costs in Shoalhaven

While specific costs can vary based on the factors mentioned above, understanding average building costs per square metre can provide a useful starting point for budgeting. 

According to recent data, the approximate market rate for building homes in Sydney is around $4,000 to $4,250 per square metre. Given that Shoalhaven is a regional area, building costs may be slightly lower, but it’s essential to consider local market conditions and specific project requirements.​ 

Budget Allowance Calculation Example

To provide a rough estimate, consider the following example for a 300-square-metre house:​

• Base Construction Cost: 300 m² x $4,000/m² = $1,200,000
• Site Conditions: For a significantly sloping block with limited access, allow an extra 15% of $1,200,000 = $180,000​
• Luxury Items: For a heated swimming pool with cover and self-cleaning capability, allow an extra $120,000​
• Landscaping and Fencing: Allow an extra 15% = $180,000​
• Existing House Demolition and Site Preparation: Allow an extra $30,000
• Architectural Fees & Design Costs: Architectural fees, including interior design, typically account for 10% of the total build cost ($171,000). As a cost-effective alternative, our in-house registered building designer offers design services for $15,000–$20,000, providing a seamless and high-quality solution. Read more about this on our blog about Design and Construct
• Other Consultants and Fees: Allow an extra $25,000​
  

Total Budget Allowance: $1,200,000 + $180,000 + $120,000 + $180,000 + $30,000 + $171,000 + $25,000 = $1,906,000​

Please note that these figures are indicative and can vary based on specific project details and market conditions.

Avoiding Budget Blowouts

One of the biggest risks in home building is cost blowouts—unexpected expenses caused by fluctuating material prices, unforeseen site challenges, or poor planning.

At Sureline, we mitigate these risks with fixed-price contracts, ensuring:

• QBE ProCalc Reports for accurate cost alignment from the concept stage
• Detailed cost breakdowns so there are no hidden surprises
• Locked-in pricing from trusted suppliers and subcontractors

This guarantees financial security and a streamlined build process, allowing architects and homeowners to proceed with confidence.

Planning to Build in 2025? Let’s Talk.

If you’re an architect designing a high-end home in Shoalhaven or a client looking for a trusted builder to bring your vision to life, get in touch today!