Looking for a home that’s both affordable and ticks all the boxes? Consider building new in a well-priced location.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to purchase your next property, there are many advantages to building a new home rather than buying an existing one.

House and land packages offer a particularly economical pathway into the market, with the freedom to choose a design that suits your needs.

There are numerous locations across Australia where it’s entirely possible to secure land and build your dream home within budget.

In fact, it’s possible to build an affordable new home in a master-planned community for under $650,000.

Affordable pathway to your first home

Shaun Patterson, Chief of Sales & Marketing at Simonds Homes, says house and land packages are a popular choice for people considering a new home build.

Not only can you adapt your new home to be “just the way you like it”, but all the essentials are also included for you.

“By choosing a house and land package, the process is simplified, so you don’t have to spend time searching for the perfect block for your chosen design,” he explains.

“We have noticed a shift in lifestyle preferences towards spacious, customisable homes in well-planned communities. With homebuyers no longer needing to be so close to the city, they can make the most of a house and land package.”

Then there are the possible cost savings thanks to the minimum environmental standards of new homes.

“With modern building techniques and new energy efficiency requirements, your long-term energy savings and reduced maintenance costs will lead to reduced ongoing expenses, making them a smart choice for homebuyers,” Patterson adds.

Here is just a small selection of locations across Australia where you can buy a house and land package for close to $650,000 or less.

1. Mount Duneed, Victoria

At Armstrong in Mount Duneed, just outside the booming regional city of Geelong, Simonds Homes offers house and land packages priced from $624K.

“Armstrong Creek is an award-winning community by Villawood, with fantastic community hubs and facilities to create a family friendly environment for homeowners,” Patterson says.

“It’s just a short drive to Geelong, with good road links and public transport options, and Melbourne is easily accessible, making it a convenient commute.”

To boost savings even further, Villawood – the developer behind the community – is currently offering to pay your builder deposit up to $25,000.

Glenlee estate in neighbouring suburb Armstrong Creek is another one to check out, with house and land available from under $600,000.

Speak to the Simonds team at their Armstrong display center to ask about creating your perfect house and land package in Geelong.

2. Clyde, Victoria

Clyde, Victoria, stands out as an great choice for new home buyers seeking a harmonious blend of laid-back lifestyle living and urban accessibility. The communities of Evergreen and Meridian in Clyde offer residents peaceful surroundings within close proximity to city amenities.

Known for its convenient location on the outskirts of Melbourne, Clyde benefits from the vibrancy of its new neighbourhoods while also enjoying the established conveniences of adjacent suburbs like Cranbourne East.

This unique combination makes Clyde an ideal destination for families and investors looking to experience the best of tranquil suburban life coupled with modern conveniences and promising investment returns.

"In Clyde, communities like Evergreen and Meridian offer a unique blend of tranquillity and accessibility. Building a new home in these communities means enjoying peaceful surroundings while being just a short drive away from the bustling city life," Patterson says.

"These communities also enjoy the advantages of established neighbouring suburbs like Clyde and Cranbourne East. This allows our clients to experience the best of both worlds: the vibrancy and innovation of a new community, along with the convenience and amenities of a well-established area."

"This blend of new and established communities presents an excellent investment opportunity. Our clients are confident that purchasing in this area will yield substantial returns over time."

3. Walloon, Southeast Queensland

Just outside Ipswich and only an hour’s drive from Brisbane, Dawn Walloon is a well-equipped and nature-filled community accessible to first-time buyers.

“Dawn Walloon offers great value with affordable house and land packages while still benefiting from established amenities close by, such as schools, shopping centres and healthcare facilities,” Patterson says.

“There’s over 2.4km of interconnected walking and bike paths, seven parks and a Village Hub for neighbours to come together have been planned to create a beautiful community.”

Here, you can find house and land packages from under $600,000 and land from $314,000, plus first home buyers in Queensland have an additional incentive.

Contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025 will have their first home buyers grant doubled.

4. Mickleham, Victoria

Mickleham, Victoria is quickly emerging as a prime destination for new home buyers seeking a blend of affordability, modern amenities, and community-centric living. Situated just a short drive from Melbourne, Mickleham's premier communities like Merrifield and Botanical offer residents the perfect balance of convenience and tranquillity.

With its vibrant community atmosphere, top-tier amenities, and expansive green spaces, Mickleham provides an ideal setting for families to build their dream home and enjoy a lifestyle of comfort and connectivity.

"Building your dream home in Mickleham’s premier communities like Merrifield and Botanical provides long-term value at an affordable price point. With excellent schools, shopping centres, and recreational facilities at your doorstep, you’re investing in a future of comfort and convenience." Patterson says.

"Our clients love Merrifield and Botanical for their strategic location and vibrant community atmosphere. Building a new home here means being part of a thriving neighbourhood that offers everything from modern infrastructure to beautiful parklands."

"Choosing to build in a community in Mickleham is more than just selecting a location; it's about embracing a lifestyle. These communities are designed with families in mind, featuring top-tier amenities, expansive green spaces, and a strong sense of community."

5. Mallala, South Australia

For those seeking an idyllic country setting within easy reach of the city, Gracewood is an ideal spot.

“Surrounded by the beautiful South Australian landscape, Gracewood really does offer an incredibly peaceful lifestyle within a closeknit community at Mallala,” Patterson says.

“Being so close to national parks and beautiful South Australian beaches, it’s a really special place to raise a family while still being within an hour of Adelaide.”

The estate also has a range of affordable house and land packages on offer, which start at $532,882.

First home buyers in South Australia may be eligible for the $15,000 first home buyers grant, plus South Australia has recently abolished stamp duty for all first home buyers who build or buy a new home.

The house and land packages are available across regional and metro locations in Victoria, South Australia and Southeast Queensland. Speak to the Simonds team to find the perfect match for your budget.

This article was originally published on realestate.com.au.