Katie Rees, Home Build Mentor and residential building expert

Blogs


Katie Rees Katie Rees

Survival of the Fittest.

With more builders than projects, not everyone will make it. The ones who do? They’re not the loudest—they’re the clearest. They build trust, filter clients early, and deliver consistently. In this market, survival isn’t luck—it’s strategy.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Home – The Ultimate Backdrop.

After 53 years, my parents’ home is making way for its next chapter. What made it beautiful wasn’t the layout or finishes—it was the life lived inside it. During a build or reno, don’t lose sight of that. Homes aren’t for perfection—they’re for presence, connection, and what truly matters.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Aeroplane View.

Some views change everything. Just like seeing a landscape from a plane brings clarity, stepping back from a project gives perspective. When builders, designers, and homeowners zoom out together, decisions get easier—and better. That’s the power of the aeroplane view.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Canteen Duty & Project Management.

Canteen duty reminded me how quickly kids adjust their treat dreams to match their coins. In building, it’s not so easy—cost clarity comes late, and regret follows. Early planning helps homeowners shape dreams within reach, before money and energy are spent.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Don’t Wait for Change. Be the Change.

The State Budget left many builders frustrated—but venting alone won’t change the game. Families still want to build—they just need someone they can trust. Now’s the time to sharpen your systems, communicate clearly, and lead with care. Don’t wait for change. Be the change.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Budget – Fantasy or Fiction?

When Sam and Bec realised their dream build didn’t match their budget, we hit pause—early. That shift gave us time to reshape their brief around reality, not fantasy. The result? A plan they could afford and love. Early budget truths don’t kill the dream—they protect it.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

The Trust Build Partnership.

Some things just work better together—like jam and scones. That’s how it feels teaming up with Roberson Construction in Wagga Wagga through our Trust Build Partnership. By guiding homeowners early and building trust from day one, we’re not just avoiding blowouts—we’re transforming the client experience.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Beyond the Existing

After 52 years, my family home is ready for its next chapter. This week, I brought my planning lens to a place filled with love, memories, and potential. It’s not just about what a home is—it’s about what it could be. Seeing beyond the existing is the first step to unlocking something truly special.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Project Brief Vs. Project Wish.

Every project starts with a dream—but dreams alone won’t get the job done. The difference between a project wish and a project brief is the difference between stress and strategy. If you’re tired of projects running on hope, it’s time to chart a smarter path forward.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Building is a High Stakes Game.

Building is a high-stakes game—your time, money, energy, and relationships are on the line. Success doesn’t come from luck, it comes from strategy. Just like any good game, you need a plan that suits your project. Want to learn the top six build plays? Catch me at the Melbourne Home Show this Friday at 11:30am.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Run Your Own (Build) Race

Building a home isn’t a sprint—it’s a long race that demands strategy, stamina, and self-awareness. Forget keeping up with the Joneses. Your build, your pace, your priorities. Run your own race, stay steady, and finish strong. That’s the real win in any project.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Should you get Multiple Build Quotes?

Getting multiple build quotes is standard practice, but is it always the best approach? If every quote comes back over budget, you’re left with tough choices. A smarter alternative? The collaborative model—where builders provide real-time cost feedback early, helping you avoid budget blowouts before they happen.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Good ‘Designer’

Good design isn’t about titles—it’s about finding the right professional for your project. Whether it’s an architect, building designer, or interior designer, what matters is their ability to align with your vision, budget, and goals. Don’t underestimate the power of great design—it’s the foundation of a successful home build.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

What the hell is Home Build Mentoring?

Home Build Mentoring isn’t a fancy gimmick—it’s a game-changer. By guiding homeowners from the idea stage, it prevents budget blowouts, design flaws, and project stress. Success isn’t accidental; it’s engineered through smart, early decisions.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Building Trust.

Building trust is the foundation of a successful residential construction business. It’s not just about materials and contracts—it’s about people. When builders shift from transactions to relationships, everything changes. Let’s focus on guiding clients with confidence and fostering real connections.

Read More
Katie Rees Katie Rees

Build Cost Plateau.

The latest ABS data shows a slight dip in building costs—the first since early 2020. While a major drop isn’t likely, this signals steadier pricing ahead. The challenge now? Helping homeowners bridge the gap between expectation and reality. Early education is key.

Read More