Behind the Build
Honest insights, expert advice, and real project stories from Dreamline Homes.
Welcome to Behind the Build — a curated space where we share expert guidance, project deep-dives, and practical advice for homeowners navigating renovations, extensions, and heritage restorations in Melbourne. Whether you're mid-project or just starting to explore what’s possible, our goal is to help you feel informed, empowered, and inspired to take the next step.
Author: Scott Hammond
Registered Builder
Why renovation projects fail — and how the right builder prevents it.
Renovation failures rarely happen by accident. Most blowouts, delays and frustrations come from avoidable issues — unclear scope, vague quotes, poor project management and weak communication. For families renovating in Melbourne’s north-east, the right builder can prevent these failures entirely. Here’s how to recognise the risks early and what a reliable, experienced local builder does differently.
What Does a $500k+ Extension & Renovation in Melbourne Really Include?
When families in Melbourne start planning an extension and renovation, the question isn’t just “how much will it cost?” but “what will my investment actually buy?”
At Dreamline Homes, we’ve guided projects from $200k to over $2M. For many, $500k is a powerful entry point — enough to deliver a well-built, functional, and beautiful transformation. For others, investing $800k or $1M+ means layering in premium kitchens, bespoke joinery, and lifestyle-driven upgrades.
Whatever the figure, the key is clarity. Understanding where your money goes, avoiding hidden traps, and working with a builder who applies the same transparency and care at every budget level is what turns a renovation into a legacy investment.
Ready to Turn Inspiration Into Your Dream Home?
You’ve got the ideas — we have the expertise to make them a reality. Let’s talk about your vision, budget, and how we can design and build a home you’ll love for years to come.