Understanding the Inclusions vs. Extras in Display Homes

Visiting a display home is the best way to assess the layout, features, and overall quality of a new home design offered by the builder. However, it’s easy to get carried away when you’re browsing new display homes - it’s important to understand which of the home’s features are actually included in the base price - and which ones will cost extra.

Knowing the difference between standard inclusions and optional extras can help you make a more informed decision, compare builders fairly, and avoid unexpected add-on costs later. 

Common Standard Inclusions for New Homes

Standard inclusions are features that the builder has included in the total cost of the new home package. These inclusions will always be present in display homes to showcase what buyers can expect with a new home build. 

Common inclusions offered by most building companies include:

• Flooring or tiling
• Roofing and gutters installation
• Doors and windows
• Basic internal finishes such as wall painting and skirting
• Electrical work such as power points and lighting installations
• Kitchen furnishings (cabinetry, built-in appliances like stovetops or oven)
• Bathroom furnishings (waterproofing, toilet and shower fixtures)
• Plumbing work such as pipes, drains, and hot water systems

Extra Features in Display Homes

A display home is also used as a way to present what’s possible - it’s a chance for builders to incorporate the full extra ‘add-ons’.

It means that not everything you see in a display home will be included in the basic home package. Decorative items, such as furniture and hung art, are obvious extras. However, seemingly permanent features, such as solar power units, interior design colour schemes, and premium-grade kitchen and bathroom fixtures, may be offered as extra add-ons by the builder. 

Identifying Standard Inclusions vs. Add-Ons in Display Homes

If you’re walking through a display home, here are a few simple ways to work out what comes standard and what might cost extra:

Ask for the inclusions list: Most builders will have a brochure or document that lists exactly what’s included in the base price of the home. This should be your go-to when comparing different builders or designs.

Check with the on-site rep: If you see something you like (from a stone benchtop to a feature wall) ask whether it’s included or an upgrade. 

Take notes as you go: It’s easy to forget what you’ve seen across multiple homes. Make a note of standout features and double-check them against the inclusions list when you get home.

Don’t assume everything is standard: Even items that feel permanent like a concrete driveway or window shutters are often added as extras. If it’s not listed in the inclusions, it’s worth confirming.

Standard Inclusions With John Munro Builder

As a trusted home builder in Townsville with over 20 years of industry experience and award-winning home designs (Housing Industry Association 2022 Awards), John Munro Builder offer a tailored set of standard inclusions for all our home designs:

• Split system air-conditioning
• Stone benchtops
• 4 high doors throughout
• Interior design services
• 600 x 600 tiles
• Fully tiled bathrooms
• Barrier security screens
• Window dressing package
• Luxury Italian kitchen appliances package 

To learn more about our home designs in Townsville, get in touch with our team today, or visit our display home in Harris Crossing, Bohle Plains.