Homepacks Build with Tara Richards

We recently spoke with Tara from RIchards Building about using Homepacks and one of their concept plan builds...

How long have you been building and what's the size of your team?

We started in 2012, just Darren and a qualified apprentice. We currently have eight on our team.

Why did you and Darren choose Homepacks for your business?

We just wanted to differentiate from any of the home builders, so your plans stood out because they were just a bit trendier. They were easy to use as well with the five plans in each Homepack, they've got the 3D Artist Impressions which stand out to the client and then they have the concept plan, which people can easily adapt to suit them.

What reservations did you guys have about purchasing your Homepacks?

It was probably the price because for a small business that was quite a lot going out, but it definitely has paid for itself!

What benefits have you found from using Homepacks?

Advertising. We just advertise the hell out of them then clients who probably didn't know that we were even there have realised that we can build their house even if they've got their own plan. Since we've had the plans, we have actually opened up an office in town. People come in, and the plans are displayed around the office as well.

Have you found using Homepacks draws more customer enquiries?

...Yeah, 100 per cent.

How does having your own range of plans help you guys?

It helps us advertise. It also brings in a different market instead of people that we know word of mouth they're actually looking at the advertising and approaching us that way. 

We weren't getting anybody looking at us for new house builds until we had the house plans. They've definitely got a style, people can definitely determine our house builds from other home builders who use basic brick cladding and more of the old school kind of plans, so it's nice to have something a bit different to stand out for them. 

Are you attracting a client-type you've never had before?

Yes. Like, people, we have really no idea who they are. We were dealing with younger people prior, as Darren is in his thirties, (so it was all word-of-mouth - people we knew). Now its anybody that sees our advertising, we make the age range from twenty-five to sixty-five, so we're getting a real variety of people coming in.


How have you found working with pre-designed customisable plans?

Definitely better because we can start with a price range. We kind of get an idea of what somebody is after instead of starting from nothing, it just gives us that starting point.

...What about Speed?

...Yes, definitely, because the architect already has a base, it's saving people money, a lot of money. Instead of costing six to ten grand for plans, it's more three to five. (I know people that have spent up to thirty grand on plans).

How much time do you feel like it's saving you guys?

...Months and months. We know, people at the moment who have plans and they've been back and forth with the architect for over a year. Whereas we're going ahead with our Bruno plan at the moment, and it's probably all taken six weeks total.


We're saving months. Because all the sizes are there, its a base. Say they add a room or customise the scullery, it's just little changes they're doing so it doesn't take the architect much.  

Are all your enquiries with these new clients coming from the website first?

Yes. We have paid Facebook ads, where we use your plans, and then it takes them through to the website, which then sends them into the office or to Darren, it sparks that communication.


....Was that something you guys were doing before getting your plans? 

We were, but we didn't have anything to really advertise, (as contractors) they weren't our own builds so there's a very fine line with what we could advertise as our build, even though we built the house.  

"Homepacks has allowed our small building business to take off! Instead of just renovations and contract work we have been able to sign up new builds and make a name for ourselves in the house build market with a distinctive house style. Highly recommended."

...Here's a Homepacks plan Tara & the team built:

Original Artist Impression
A view from the street-front showing the two mono-pitched wings.
A custom chimney cap completes the ribbed chimney.
Bold, ribbed metal cladding lead up to the entry (finished in vertical cedar).
Decks and a covered pergola come off the main living and lead out to the large lawn.
A standalone pergola with ovehead cover that allows light to pass through and keeps the weather out.
Looking back at the northern, outdoor living
Inside the kitchen looking towards a full height northern window.

What were the main changes to this plan?

Not much changed from the original design, just the configuration of the northern windows.

What was the value of this build?

$400,000

Build confidence, remove friction and speed up your design process:

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Finlay
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Hunter Homes
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"It saves a huge amount of time! You're not having to reinvent the wheel"

Rachel
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"It's worked out amazingly! We've built six designs."

Caleb
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Hivis Building
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"Homepacks has allowed our small building business to take off! We have been able to sign up new builds and make a name for ourselves"

Tara
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Richards Building
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"Improved overall business recognition & more work coming in."

Andre
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Philip & Laurie
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Bingley Design & Build
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Jul 4, 2023
Mark P

I am absolutely thrilled with the impact that Homepacks plans have had on my building company. These plans have truly taken us to the next level, and I couldn't be happier with the results. if you're a builder looking to take your business to new heights, I wholeheartedly recommend Homepacks. Their plans will not only give you a competitive advantage but also attract clients who appreciate cutting-edge designs and are willing to invest in their dream projects. Thank you, Homepacks, for revolutionizing my business and helping me create extraordinary spaces for my clients!

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Jun 27, 2023
Tracey S

We have dealt with Sam from Homepacks for over 7 years with various projects from client builds to our own homes. He's quick to respond and always delivers the plans we are looking for. It is a quick, stress-free experience and we would recommend him to others. Thanks Signal Homes

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Jun 18, 2023
Jasmine E

We have had the pleasure of working with Sam and home packs this year for our business. He has been so helpful and answers any questions fast and efficient. Definitely recommend him for getting plans.

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May 23, 2023
Hamid Z

Homepacks have been brilliant to deal with and a fantastic solution for us to provide beautiful architectural plans to our customers to get them working with us on custom designs for there specific section. Sam has always been super responsive and helpful in implementing and getting the plans uploaded and completed. Highly recommend Homepacks 👍

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Oct 30, 2022
Swanee K

Sam has been awesome to deal with, his products are excellent and his service has been outstanding. Highly recommend to all.

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May 15, 2022
Victor K

I have found Sam a joy to work with he is prompt in getting back. The plans produced are fantastic and we look forward to continuing our business with Homepacks. I would highly recommend Homepacks to any company looking to expand their business.

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Apr 28, 2022
Brent S

I have dealt with Sam for around 12 months, I have found the product and service excellent, especially for a small construction company like mine. Sam also provides new plans which I find up to date with what the market is wanting. For me to be able to do this myself would not be cost efficient. Thanks again Sam!

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Nov 29, 2021
Amanda P

Fantastic designs which are on trend and desirable. The designs have been inspirational to our clients and the style has given our company further enquiries and increased our business. Sam is an absolute pleasure to work with.

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Oct 22, 2021
Martin O

Great plans backed up by great service. We are about to build four of these homes and the leads keep coming in.

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Jun 2, 2021
Lain H

Ive been working with Sam for about a year now. Since we started using homepacks our business has grown in leaps and bounds. Sam is always able to get changes done when we need and this keeps our clients engaged and happy. Our only problem is keeping up with the demand! Thanks Sam, Well done You've created a great business model!

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Dec 10, 2020
Sheena Y

Homepacks has been a fantastic asset to our business by streamlining the sales process with potential clients, and providing them with plans that have the WOW factor. Sam is also very efficient at making any plan changes required, which means we can then provide a prompt service, and have plans approved and underway quickly.

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Sep 10, 2020
Laurie B

Homepacks has been a fantastic investment for our business. We wanted to add another level to our business and Sam from Homepacks has certainly helped us create this. It's only been a few months since we have launched our website with our plans and business information, and the leads have been phenomenal. Sam made the process so simple and our website looks so professional. Thanks again Sam!

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Jul 1, 2020
Luke F

Sam and the team at Homepacks provided me with a great outcome for the specific designs I required for my business. There home-pack designs are unique and innovative for a project builder or small builder who wants to look professional next to his competitors. I would recommend Homepacks to any company or builder looking for a cost effective and professional solution to there business.

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May 28, 2020
Darren R

Homepacks has allowed our small building business to take off! Instead of just renovations and contract work we have been able to sign up new builds and make a name for ourselves in the house build market with a distinctive house style. Highly recommended.

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May 12, 2020
Kane D

Great product and service!

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Dec 18, 2019
Kurt D

Sam has done a great job setting up our website. The concept plans have been a great addition to our business.

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Oct 16, 2019
Deb T

Sam from Homepacks has been very patient with me. Our process has taken about 6 months from the start of creation. I simply didn't have the time to put to it. That put aside Sam has just been amazing through the entire process. I am more than impressed with Sam's business and also what he has delivered for us

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Sep 26, 2019
Levi S

Really enjoyed working with Sam. He is very energetic and has some great ideas but also listens to what you need and want too ! I would use him again if I built again and would recommend to anyone wanting a classy house design. Cheers Sam

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Jun 11, 2019
Steve H

The feed back I have received form clients , friends & colleagues have been great! All very impressed with the super sharp imagery. I just hope I can build as good as the pictures look.

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May 27, 2019
Mark F

Sam knows his stuff and is really helpful. Highly recommend having a chat.

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May 21, 2019
Scott C

We purchased a set of plans and had our website created through Homepacks. They were amazing to deal with from start to finish and post sales service has been great. So helpful. Thanks Sam!

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May 14, 2019
Shane K

We have been using Homepacks for some time now and find them great for our business, not only for the great range of plans available but also we find the artist impressions are a good a marketing tool on website and facebook as the are very professional looking, Thanks Sam and the team at Homepacks

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Jan 15, 2019
Steve S

Homepacks have the WOW factor. Sam and his team have been faultless. We have already confirmed 2 new houses since launching our website and designs with Sam just before Christmas 2018. We also did a marketing campaign and have had a huge amount of very positive leads with clients that has sections. I am very excited for 2019 Thanks guys

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Aug 12, 2018
David V

Homepacks has helped with bringing a much more professional face to our business! Since Sam has been involved we have notice a considerable improvement with leads and how people have responded to our business. Highly recommend it :)

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Jun 26, 2018
Taryn B

Great service and stunning plans, highly recommend to all looking to develop their plan range.

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Jun 11, 2018
Finlay H

I highly recommend using Homepacks for any building company who is looking at getting a professional look to there company.Sam and his team are great to deal with and Sam has really helped with great advice on how to grow my Building Company. Can not thank Homepacks enough for all the help they have given me plus the outstanding designs that the public is loving. You won't be disappointed in getting in touch and using Homepacks designs!

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May 12, 2018
Reuben C

We are so happy with our new plans and website from Sam at Homepacks . Results have been amazing seeing many people interact with our plans and now talking to multiple people about there building needs.

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Mar 14, 2018
Hannah G

Such a pleasure doing business with Homepacks. They have taken our building project to the next level. Very professional with innovative concepts and ideas. Highly recommend.

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Feb 13, 2018
Pieta S

Yes well I wasn't sure what they'd be like but I'm super super impressed with the results. Absolutely love the plans and the service from Sam thanks heaps! More plans please

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Dec 12, 2017
Toni K

Great service from Sam at Homepacks, absolutely love our custom home. Couldn't be more impressed really! Quick and easy to deal with and reasonably priced. Would recommend to all.

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Dec 1, 2017
Suzie R

Since we have bought our first two Homepacks only six months ago, we now have ten houses being built and another seven coming through so far! Everyone loves them!

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Nov 25, 2017
Sue K

The plans were really highly received, everyone loves them. We now have forty new clients to follow up, most of them with sites, so a success!

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Nov 4, 2017
Brett H

Great value! We are building two Homepacks designs. The ongoing support has been excellent!

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May 12, 2017
Stacey P

Sam and Candice were amazing to deal with. They respond promptly to all queries and I can't rate their efficiency and service highly enough. I wish every business was this easy to deal with!

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May 11, 2017
Rhiana W

Homepacks Architectural Plans has been outstanding to work with designing our house and business. Sam not only is outstanding at design but also seems passionate and really buys into what his clients goals are. We could not have been happier with their work and would recommended anyone to work with them.

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May 8, 2017
Craig P

Working with Sam and the team from Homepacks has been a real pleasure. Sam is keen, efficient and great to work with. I look forward to working with him on my next project!

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Apr 2, 2017
Lans H

Absolute professional from start to finish thank you!

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Aug 4, 2016
Mike R

Great designs! Our Homepacks spec home sold to the first person who walked through the door! We're now onto our second spec home, the 'Luna' design.

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May 3, 2016
Baden B

Our new range of house plans have delivered in every aspect, it's been invaluable!

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Feb 10, 2016
Seth L

We've built one as our showhome and have great reviews. We've also completed another Homepacks design with a very satisfied client! Homepacks are helping our business grow every year!

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