Choosing the right suburb is crucial when planning a custom home build in Melbourne. Each area offers unique opportunities and challenges that can significantly impact your project’s success.
Using our experience as custom home builders in Melbourne, we assess 10 of Melbourne eastern suburbs’ suitability for a custom home build. But before we plunge into the suburbs let’s consider the criteria we take into account.
Criteria for Selecting a Custom Home Build Location
When selecting a location to build a custom-built home, several key considerations can significantly impact the success and satisfaction of your project. Here are the main factors to keep in mind:
1. Zoning and Land Use Regulations
- Zoning Laws: Ensure the land is zoned for residential use and check any specific restrictions or allowances related to building heights, lot coverage, and property setbacks.
- Future Development Plans: Investigate any planned developments in the area, such as new roads, commercial centers, or schools, which could affect your property value and living conditions.
2. Topography and Soil Quality
- Site Conditions: The land’s topography (e.g., flat, sloping, or hilly) and soil type can influence the design of your home and the cost of construction, especially for foundations and landscaping.
- Drainage: Assess how water drains on the property to avoid issues with flooding or water damage, especially if you’re considering a basement.
3. Accessibility and Infrastructure
- Road Access: Consider the quality of roads leading to your property and the ease of access for construction vehicles.
- Utilities: Check the availability of essential utilities such as water, electricity, gas, and sewage, as well as internet connectivity.
4. Neighborhood and Community
- Safety: Research the crime rate in the area to ensure it’s a safe place to live.
- Amenities: Proximity to schools, hospitals, shopping centers, parks, and recreational facilities can greatly enhance your living experience and property value.
- Community Atmosphere: Consider the character of the neighborhood and whether it aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
5. Environmental Factors
- Climate: Local climate conditions, such as temperature ranges, humidity, and wind patterns, can influence the design and materials you choose for your home.
- Natural Hazards: Assess the risk of natural disasters like bushfires, floods, or earthquakes, and how they may affect construction and insurance costs.
6. Property Value and Investment Potential
- Resale Value: Consider the potential resale value of your custom home in the future, based on the location and surrounding properties.
- Market Trends: Research current property market trends in the area to ensure you’re making a sound investment.
7. Privacy and Views
- Privacy: Evaluate how close neighboring homes are and whether the location offers the level of privacy you desire.
- Views: If scenic views are important to you, select a location that maximizes these aspects while considering how future developments might impact them.
8. Proximity to Work and Transportation
- Commute: Consider the daily commute to work or other frequent destinations, and whether the location offers convenient access to public transportation if needed.
- Traffic: Be mindful of potential traffic congestion in the area, especially during peak hours.
9. Local Building Codes and Restrictions
- Architectural Guidelines: Some areas have strict architectural guidelines or covenants that may limit the design options for your custom home.
- Historical or Environmental Protections: Check for any historical or environmental protections that might restrict modifications or construction on the property.
10. Cultural and Lifestyle Fit
- Community Values: Consider the cultural and social dynamics of the community and whether they align with your values and lifestyle.
- Noise Levels: Assess the noise levels in the area, particularly if the property is near busy roads, airports, or industrial zones.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a location that not only meets your immediate needs but also enhances your long-term satisfaction and investment in your custom-built home.
Custom Home Building by Suburb
1. Balwyn
- Zoning and Land Use: Balwyn is predominantly a residential suburb with established zoning regulations that support custom home builds, particularly luxury homes.
- Topography and Soil Quality: The area has relatively flat terrain, making it ideal for straightforward construction without the need for extensive excavation or retaining walls.
- Accessibility and Infrastructure: Well-serviced by public transport, roads, and amenities such as schools, parks, and shopping centres.
- Neighborhood and Community: Known for its affluent community and high-quality schools, making it desirable for families.
- Environmental Factors: Low risk of natural hazards; mild climate.
- Property Value and Investment Potential: High property values with strong long-term investment potential due to the suburb’s reputation and proximity to the city.
- Privacy and Views: The area offers privacy, with larger blocks in some parts and potential for city skyline views.
- Proximity to Work and Transportation: Good access to public transport and a short commute to the Melbourne CBD.
Suggested Build: Luxury Townhouse or French Provincial Style Home – Balwyn’s affluent character makes it ideal for a luxury townhouse development or a French Provincial style home that reflects the suburb’s elegance and traditional charm.
2. Camberwell
- Zoning and Land Use: Residential with a mix of older and newer homes; zoning supports a variety of residential builds.
- Topography and Soil Quality: Generally flat to gently sloping, suitable for various home designs, including basements.
- Accessibility and Infrastructure: Excellent access to public transport, schools, parks, and shopping facilities.
- Neighborhood and Community: Family-friendly with a strong sense of community and access to prestigious schools.
- Environmental Factors: Low risk of natural hazards; ideal for family living.
- Property Value and Investment Potential: High property values with strong demand, ensuring good investment returns.
- Privacy and Views: Offers a mix of privacy and some elevated views, especially in higher parts of the suburb.
- Proximity to Work and Transportation: Convenient access to the CBD via train and tram, making it suitable for professionals.
Suggested Build: Dual Occupancy or Luxury Townhouse – Camberwell’s demand for family-friendly homes makes it an ideal location for dual occupancy developments. A luxury townhouse would also suit the area’s prestigious character.
3. Box Hill
- Zoning and Land Use: Rapidly developing area with mixed zoning; opportunities for residential builds, but zoning must be checked for high-density developments.
- Topography and Soil Quality: Mostly flat terrain; suitable for standard construction with no significant challenges.
- Accessibility and Infrastructure: Excellent infrastructure with major hospitals, shopping centres, and public transport hubs, including train and bus networks.
- Neighborhood and Community: Diverse community with a mix of residential and commercial developments; growing popularity among families and professionals.
- Environmental Factors: Low risk of natural hazards; generally mild climate.
- Property Value and Investment Potential: Rising property values due to increasing demand, making it a strong investment choice.
- Privacy and Views: Privacy may be limited in denser areas, but some pockets offer quieter, more private settings.
- Proximity to Work and Transportation: Well-connected to the CBD and other key areas via public transport, appealing to commuters.
Suggested Build: Dual Occupancy or Narrow Block Home – Box Hill’s growth and demand for housing make it suitable for dual occupancy projects or homes on narrow blocks to maximise land use.
4. Doncaster
- Zoning and Land Use: Primarily residential with increasing high-density developments; suitable for various residential projects.
- Topography and Soil Quality: Hilly terrain in some parts, which may require specialised design and engineering for sloping blocks.
- Accessibility and Infrastructure: Good access to major roads (Eastern Freeway), shopping centres (Westfield Doncaster), and schools.
- Neighborhood and Community: Family-oriented with a mix of older homes and new developments.
- Environmental Factors: Low risk of natural hazards; good drainage is necessary in hilly areas.
- Property Value and Investment Potential: Strong property values with significant development potential.
- Privacy and Views: Elevated areas offer excellent views, but hilly terrain may impact privacy in some locations.
- Proximity to Work and Transportation: Easy access to the CBD via the Eastern Freeway; public transport options are good but not as extensive as inner suburbs.
Suggested Build: Homes on Sloping Blocks or Luxury Townhouse – Doncaster’s hilly terrain is ideal for custom homes on sloping blocks, with designs that take advantage of the views. Luxury townhouses could also suit this growing, affluent area.
5. Kew
- Zoning and Land Use: Predominantly residential with some areas of heritage protection, so zoning should be checked carefully.
- Topography and Soil Quality: Generally flat to gently sloping; soil conditions are good for most types of construction.
- Accessibility and Infrastructure: Excellent infrastructure with top-tier schools, parks, and close proximity to the CBD.
- Neighborhood and Community: Highly sought-after suburb with a prestigious reputation; attracts families and professionals.
- Environmental Factors: Low risk of natural hazards; ideal for high-end residential builds.
- Property Value and Investment Potential: Very high property values with strong demand, ensuring excellent investment returns.
- Privacy and Views: Offers privacy, especially in larger properties, and potential for city views from higher points.
- Proximity to Work and Transportation: Convenient access to the CBD, making it ideal for professionals.
Suggested Build: French Provincial Style Home or Luxury Townhouse – Kew’s prestigious nature is well-suited for French Provincial style homes that embody elegance and timeless design. Luxury townhouses could also be a strong choice given the demand for high-end residences.
6. Hawthorn
- Zoning and Land Use: Mix of residential and commercial zoning; older homes may have heritage restrictions.
- Topography and Soil Quality: Mostly flat terrain; suitable for a variety of home styles.
- Accessibility and Infrastructure: Excellent public transport, schools, and shopping; close to the CBD.
- Neighborhood and Community: Highly desirable with a mix of families, professionals, and students due to nearby universities.
- Environmental Factors: Low risk of natural hazards; moderate climate.
- Property Value and Investment Potential: High property values with consistent demand, particularly for well-located properties.
- Privacy and Views: Limited privacy in some areas due to denser housing, but opportunities for views in higher areas.
- Proximity to Work and Transportation: Excellent proximity to the CBD and access to multiple transport options.
Suggested Build: Luxury Townhouse or Dual Occupancy – Hawthorn’s mix of old and new homes and its high demand for housing make it ideal for luxury townhouses or dual occupancy developments that appeal to professionals and families.
7. Ringwood
- Zoning and Land Use: Primarily residential with growing commercial areas; zoning is flexible for residential developments.
- Topography and Soil Quality: Varied terrain with some hilly areas; suitable for a range of construction types, including sloping block designs.
- Accessibility and Infrastructure: Well-serviced by public transport (train and bus), shopping centres (Eastland), and schools.
- Neighborhood and Community: Family-friendly with a mix of established homes and new developments.
- Environmental Factors: Low risk of natural hazards; ideal for family living with access to parks and recreational areas.
- Property Value and Investment Potential: Growing property values with strong future potential due to ongoing development.
- Privacy and Views: Opportunities for privacy and views, especially in elevated areas.
- Proximity to Work and Transportation: Good access to the CBD via the Eastern Freeway and public transport, appealing to commuters.
Suggested Build: Homes on Sloping Blocks or Dual Occupancy – Ringwood’s varied terrain and family-friendly environment make it ideal for custom homes on sloping blocks or dual occupancy developments.
8. Glen Waverley
- Zoning and Land Use: Predominantly residential with some areas of high-density zoning; check for specific local council regulations.
- Topography and Soil Quality: Generally flat to gently sloping, with good soil conditions for construction.
- Accessibility and Infrastructure: Excellent infrastructure with top-rated schools, shopping centres (The Glen), and public transport (train and bus).
- Neighborhood and Community: Highly sought-after by families, particularly for access to good schools.
- Environmental Factors: Low risk of natural hazards; safe and family-oriented.
- Property Value and Investment Potential: High property values with consistent demand, particularly from families.
- Privacy and Views: Good potential for privacy in larger properties; some areas offer views of the Dandenong Ranges.
- Proximity to Work and Transportation: Well-connected to the CBD and other employment hubs via public transport and major roads.
Suggested Build: Luxury Townhouse or Dual Occupancy – Glen Waverley’s popularity with families and its high property values make it suitable for luxury townhouses or dual occupancy developments.
9. Mount Waverley
Suitability for a Custom Home Build:
- Zoning and Land Use:
Mount Waverley is primarily a residential suburb with a mix of older homes and newer developments. The zoning is generally supportive of residential builds, including custom homes. It’s important to check for any specific local regulations or heritage overlays, particularly in established areas.
- Topography and Soil Quality:
The suburb features generally flat to gently sloping terrain, which is conducive to various types of construction. The soil quality is typically good, making it suitable for standard foundations without the need for extensive site preparation.
- Accessibility and Infrastructure:
Mount Waverley boasts excellent infrastructure, including access to quality schools, shopping centres (such as Mount Waverley Village), and public transport options (train and bus). It’s also well-connected to the CBD and other major employment hubs via the Monash Freeway.
- Neighborhood and Community:
The suburb is popular with families, professionals, and retirees, offering a peaceful and established community atmosphere. The presence of good schools makes it especially attractive to families.
- Environmental Factors:
Mount Waverley has a low risk of natural hazards, and the climate is moderate, making it ideal for residential living. There are numerous parks and green spaces, enhancing the suburb’s livability.
- Property Value and Investment Potential:
Property values in Mount Waverley are strong and continue to grow, making it a good investment for custom home builds. The suburb’s popularity and proximity to good schools and amenities ensure sustained demand.
- Privacy and Views:
While privacy can vary depending on the specific location within the suburb, many areas offer good privacy with larger blocks and established gardens. There are also opportunities for elevated views, particularly in higher parts of the suburb.
- Proximity to Work and Transportation:
The suburb’s proximity to the Monash Freeway and public transport options makes it convenient for commuting to the CBD and other major employment areas, which is a significant draw for professionals.
Suggested Build: Luxury Family Home or Dual Occupancy. Mount Waverley’s strong family orientation and high property values make it an ideal location for a luxury family home with high-end finishes and ample living space. Alternatively, dual occupancy developments could also be suitable, particularly in areas with larger blocks, as they provide a good return on investment in this high-demand suburb.
10. Blackburn
Suitability for a Custom Home Build:
- Zoning and Land Use:
Blackburn is a predominantly residential suburb with a mix of heritage and modern homes. The zoning generally supports residential developments, but it’s important to be mindful of potential heritage overlays, especially in areas with older, character-filled homes.
- Topography and Soil Quality:
The terrain in Blackburn is mostly flat to gently undulating, with good soil conditions for residential construction. This makes it suitable for a variety of home designs, including those requiring standard or more complex foundations.
- Accessibility and Infrastructure:
Blackburn is well-served by public transport, including train and bus services, making it easy to access the CBD and surrounding suburbs. The suburb also has good local amenities, including shopping centres, cafes, and parks, such as Blackburn Lake Sanctuary.
- Neighborhood and Community:
Blackburn has a strong community feel, with a mix of families, professionals, and retirees. The suburb is known for its leafy streets and green spaces, making it an attractive location for those seeking a peaceful residential environment.
- Environmental Factors:
The suburb is largely free from environmental hazards and offers a moderate climate. The abundance of parks and nature reserves contributes to the suburb’s appeal, particularly for those who value a connection with nature.
- Property Value and Investment Potential:
Property values in Blackburn are robust and have shown consistent growth over the years. The suburb’s appeal to families and its proximity to quality schools and amenities ensure strong investment potential for custom home builds.
- Privacy and Views:
Many parts of Blackburn offer good privacy, with larger blocks and established gardens providing a sense of seclusion. The suburb’s green, leafy environment enhances the overall feeling of privacy. Some elevated areas may offer views of the surrounding greenery or distant city skylines.
- Proximity to Work and Transportation:
With easy access to the CBD via train and major roads, Blackburn is a convenient suburb for professionals who commute to the city. The local transport infrastructure supports a variety of commuting options.
Suggested Build: Narrow Block Home or Luxury Family Home. Blackburn’s established character and strong community make it ideal for a luxury family home that complements the leafy, peaceful environment. Alternatively, a narrow block home would be well-suited to the suburb’s more compact, established streets, allowing for modern living solutions within a smaller footprint. This is particularly relevant for those looking to maximise the use of land in a desirable, high-demand area.
