Kitset vs Full Build

Both options can get you into a beautiful new space — but they suit very different personalities, budgets, and timelines. Let’s break it down in a fun (and honest) way.

🧩 What Is a Kitset Home?

A kitset home is like the ultimate grown-up Lego set.

Companies like Fraemohs Homes and Keith Hay Homes supply pre-cut materials, plans, and everything you need — delivered to your site. You (or your builder) assemble it.

Think:

• Pre-designed plans

• Materials delivered in stages

• Flexible build options

• Often more affordable upfront

You can DIY parts of it (if you’re handy), or hire professionals to complete the build.

🏗 What Is a Fully Built Home?

A fully built home is the “sit back and relax” option.

A building company manages the entire project — from consent to completion. You get the keys when it’s done.

Companies like G.J. Gardner Homes or Jennian Homes offer full-service packages.

Think:

• Turnkey packages

• One contract

• Project management included

• Less hands-on stress

You pay more for the convenience — but you save time and decision fatigue.

💰 Let’s Talk Money

💵 Kitset Homes

• Often cheaper upfront

• More control over budget

• Can save money if you manage trades yourself

• BUT unexpected costs can creep in (groundworks, trades, consent)

💵 Fully Built Homes

• Higher price tag

• More predictable total cost

• Fewer surprise expenses

• You’re paying for expertise and convenience

If budget control is your top priority, kitset often wins.
If certainty is your top priority, fully built feels safer.

⏳ What About Time?

• Kitset: Faster delivery of materials, but build time depends on you and your team.

• Fully Built: Slower start (design & consent process), but professionally managed schedule.

If you enjoy being involved and don’t mind coordination — kitset works.
If you’re busy and want minimal hassle — fully built is smoother.

🛠 Personality Check (Be Honest)

Choose Kitset if:

• You like being hands-on

• You want more control

• You’re comfortable managing trades

• You want to potentially save money

Choose Fully Built if:

• You don’t want stress

• You prefer one contract

• You value time over cost savings

• You want a smoother process

🏡 What About Quality?

Here’s the truth:
Quality depends more on the builder than the method.

A well-built kitset home can be just as solid as a fully built home — especially when using reputable suppliers and licensed builders.

🇳🇿 NZ Build Extra Costs

In New Zealand, council consent, foundations, and site conditions can significantly affect cost — whether you choose kitset or fully built.

Always compare:

• What’s included in the “from price”

• Site works

• Foundations

• Council fees

• Electrical & plumbing

• Interior finishes

Transparent pricing makes a huge difference.

🎯 Conclusion

There’s no universal winner.

It comes down to:

• 💰 Budget

• ⏳ Time

• 🧠 Stress tolerance

• 🔨 How involved you want to be

If you love control and flexibility → Kitset could be perfect.
If you love convenience and certainty → Fully built might suit you better.

Either way, comparing your options properly is the smartest move.