The ZAC Journal

We believe a confident build starts with clear information. Our Journal is a collection of considered articles designed to inform and educate, cutting through the industry noise with straight-talking expertise.

This is where we share our insights – from navigating complex approvals and understanding the nuances of different build pathways, to deep dives into design trends and quality materials. Read our expert perspective to start your build journey with knowledge, clarity, and confidence.

Latest insights
The Hero Display home

Display home visit tips: What to look for beyond the floorplan

Building a home is one of life’s most significant and emotional investments. While floorplans and online galleries provide inspiration, nothing…

The new shape of home ownership: Why co-buying and multi-generational living are on the rise

For generations, the path to homeownership followed a familiar script – save, buy, settle. Increasingly, that script no longer reflects…

Custom home myths debunked: What you really need to know

For many people, building a custom home is appealing – but also uncertain. Much of that uncertainty comes from common myths…

Building on a unique block: What to expect and how to plan

You’re excited to build but you’ve been told your block is “difficult” or “unique” – maybe it’s sloping or narrow….

How much can you customise a new home? Understanding your options

One of the main reasons people choose to build a custom home is the freedom to create something that feels…

Where to start when building a custom home: A step-by-step guide

Planning a custom home can feel both exciting and uncertain. For many people, the challenge isn’t a lack of ideas –…

When should you engage a builder for your custom home?

A common assumption when building a custom home is that you should wait until you have plans before speaking to…

Knockdown Rebuild for benefits of a new home

Custom build vs project home: Which is right for you?

For many people starting their home building journey, one of the first questions is whether to choose a custom home…

The Hero Display home

How to stay in control of your custom home budget

For most people considering a custom home, the biggest concern isn’t the cost itself – it’s the fear of where…

Sydney’s new communities: Where lifestyle meets opportunity for homeowners

Sydney has always been evolving, but right now, the pace of change feels bigger than ever. New communities are emerging,…

Creat a spa experience at home

Bring the spa experience into your home

When you think of a spa, what comes to mind? Soft lighting, calming music, warm towels, and a sense of…

Detached Dual Occupancy now in Hawkesbury: What this means for homeowners

The Hawkesbury has long been known for its open spaces, rural charm, and strong community ties. But as the region…

The rise of the dirty kitchen: a smart addition for modern living

Back in the early 2000s, a walk-in pantry was the ultimate kitchen must-have. Fast forward 25 years, and kitchens have…

The rise of smart home technology: The future of living

In this age of technological advancement, our homes are becoming smarter, more efficient, and more connected than ever before. Incorporating…

Changes to the NSW BASIX scheme

Here’s what you need to know about changes to the NSW BASIX scheme The NSW Government has committed to achieving…

10 expert tips for working with your home builder

The key to a successful new home build is a great working relationship with the builder, the company and their…

Narrow block home designs: Smart solutions for urban living

There are more narrow blocks coming onto the market in greenfield locations as the supply of land for housing in…

Get the most out of your visit to a display home

Display home villages, like HomeWorld Box Hill, are an excellent way to explore multiple off-the-plan homes in one convenient location….

Building smart in a changing property market: What homeowners need to know

With the cost of living rising alongside higher interest rates and inflationary pressures, building a new home requires thoughtful planning…

How to add wow factor to your new home

Homes with a wow factor are memorable, inspiring, and often unexpected. But what makes a home truly “wow”? The answer…

How to set a budget and choose the right home building approach

One of the first and most important steps in building a new home is establishing a budget. How you approach…

A ZAC Homes house that is custom designed

Understanding custom home design: Your options explained

In the world of home building, the term custom design is often loosely used to describe small tweaks to a…

How to choose the right builder for your custom home

Hiring the right builder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when creating your dream home. It’s a…

Landscaping shot of firepit

How to make your home feel like a luxury resort

Building a new home gives you the opportunity to create a space that feels like your own private resort —…

Knockdown Rebuild: A smart way to create your dream home

A recent report by the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) highlights a growing challenge for homeowners in the Greater…

Knockdown Rebuild: Stay in the community you love

One of the greatest advantages of a Knockdown Rebuild is that you can stay in the community you know and…

Demolishing your existing home: What to expect

Once you’ve decided that you’re going to knock down your existing house and build a brand new home on the…

Can I build a duplex on my land? Key factors to consider

Before you consider building a duplex on your existing land or buy land to build a duplex you need to…

Residential land being prepared

Knockdown Rebuild checklist: Everything you need to know before your start

Undertaking a knockdown rebuild project where you demolish your old house and build a brand new home, is a big…

Monochrome modern bathroom design

How to design a bathroom in your dream home

Choosing the right bathroom look and layout is an important part of designing a dream home. Making significant changes down…

concreate slab

New build site costs explained: What homeowners need to know

Building a new home can be complex and overwhelming, but careful thought and planning upfront can ease the load and…

marsden home

How to set up your perfect alfresco area

Think of the outdoor area of your home as an extension of the inside, rather than a completely different space….

The rise of multi-generational living: designing homes for extended families

According to a 2020 study by the UNSW’s City Future’s Research Centre, one in four Sydney households are considered multi-generational….

Is building a duplex on your land a good investment?

Building a duplex on your current land can be an excellent investment or a great multi-generational home, but there are…

Double level home from Homes by ZAC with Designer facade

Knockdown Rebuild vs renovating: which is right for you?

With land in Greater Sydney at a premium, many homeowners are re-evaluating how their existing home can better support the…

Common Knockdown Rebuild challenges and how to overcome them

There are many reasons to commit to a knockdown rebuild. You may love your neighbourhood but not the home you…

Duplex vs Dual Occupancy: choosing the best multi-dwelling option

The increasing price and lack of available greenfield blocks is leading more families to consider building multi-dwellings on their existing…

is-it-time-to-invest-in-your-property-with-a-knock-down-rebuild

Why Knockdown Rebuild is booming in Sydney

The Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) recently released a report stating that Greater Sydney is facing a severe shortage…

Things to consider when designing that perfect kitchen

Designing the perfect kitchen can be a seriously daunting task. We all have an image of what we want the…

Why consider building a duplex? Key benefits explained

When looking for ideas on what type of house to build on your land (either a new block or a…

Buying land for your new home: Five factors to consider

Many people dream of building their perfect home. However, before you purchase land, there are some important things to consider….