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
How Long Does a $500k+ Renovation Really Take in Melbourne?
When families ask how long a $500k+ renovation will take, they often hear fragments — “six months for construction” or “a couple of months for permits.” Add them together and it seems simple. But without seeing the whole journey, expectations quickly become unrealistic.
At Dreamline Homes, we take a different approach. We always begin with your completion milestone — whether that’s being in before Christmas, ready for the school year, or celebrating a family event — and we map every stage backwards.
For most families in Melbourne’s North-East, a $500k+ renovation takes 9–13 months without planning permits, and 12–25 months if planning is required. That’s the full picture: design, selections, permits, and construction.
By planning with transparency and care, you know exactly how your renovation will align with your life — and when you can step back into a finished home with confidence.
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.