Signing a home and land contract is the first step in turning a house dream into reality. For many buyers, the question is the same: how long will it take and what happens next? From approvals to foundations to final finishes, understanding the process removes stress and helps you plan around school, work and life.
In South East Queensland, a typical house and land package takes around 20 to 28 weeks from site start to handover. This varies based on weather, design, and location. Kiba Built uses a structured process with a customer portal to keep each stage clear, so you always know what’s happening and what comes next.
Weeks 1–4: Contracts, Finance And Planning
The first month is all about setting up. After signing the land and building contracts, your lender finalises loan approval. Soil testing and site surveys are arranged, and plans go to council for permits. You’ll also confirm design choices like floor plans, facades, and structural changes. Colour selections and finishes are usually chosen now too, especially for standard plans.
Kiba Built opens your online portal at this stage so you can follow every update. This phase may seem quiet on site, but it sets the pace for a smooth build later.
Weeks 5–8: Site Start And Slab Stage
The site is cleared and fenced. Access paths are set and the block is levelled. Underground plumbing and termite protection are installed. Once complete, the slab is poured. This marks your first construction progress payment. For sloping blocks, extra preparation may be needed.
You’ll now see the footprint of your home on site. It’s a good time to confirm drain positions and garage access. Kiba Built supervisors meet clients during each stage, ensuring alignment before the next step begins.
Weeks 9–12: Frame Stage
Timber or steel frames are delivered and erected. External and internal walls go up. Roof trusses are installed, followed by bracing. Your home now takes visible shape and rooms are easy to walk through.
Once the frame passes inspection, the next progress payment is made. This is often when families visit to visualise furniture placement and day-to-day flow. Kiba Built emphasises accuracy here, since small errors can affect finishes later.
Weeks 13–16: Lock-Up Stage
The home becomes weatherproof. External walls are finished in your chosen cladding or brick. The roof is completed, and windows and external doors are installed. Garage doors also go in at this stage.
Internally, electricians and plumbers run their rough-in services, and insulation is added before walls are closed. The home starts to look finished from outside. The lock-up payment is now due. External colours and sealing details can be checked during site visits.
Weeks 17–24: Internal Fit-Out And Fixtures
This phase transforms your house from a shell into a liveable space. Plasterboard is installed and painted. Skirting, doors and cabinetry are fitted. Bathrooms are waterproofed and tiled, and vanities, toilets and showers are installed.
Kitchen cabinetry and benchtops go in. Appliances are connected later in this phase. Flooring such as carpet, tile or timber is laid. Electricians and plumbers return to connect switches, lights, and taps. This stage takes the longest, often six to eight weeks.
Kiba Built simplifies this part by including many premium items in their standard packages, so clients rarely need mid-build upgrades that slow things down.
Weeks 25–28: Final Touches And Handover
The last phase includes internal cleaning, touch-ups and inspection preparation. If included in your package, driveways and landscaping are finished now. The home is inspected by a certifier who issues final approval.
Kiba Built schedules a pre-handover inspection with you to list any final fixes. While this happens, you can arrange utilities, insurance and removalists. Once the final payment is made, you receive the keys and a handover pack with warranties and guides.
With support from the portal, clear timelines, and dedicated site supervisors, Kiba Built makes sure the end of the process feels as organised as the start.
A Clear Path From Contract To Keys
From signing the contract to unlocking the front door, building a new home follows clear steps. Each phase—planning, foundations, framing, lock-up, fit-out and handover—moves your home forward. Timelines can shift with weather or approvals, but strong planning and transparency help manage expectations.
Kiba Built brings clarity to every stage through its customer portal, reliable supervision and well-chosen inclusions. If you’re considering a home and land package, a custom plan or acreage build in South East Queensland, this structured approach supports every step from contract to keys.
Kiba Built QBCC 15100054 © 2026 All Rights Reserved
Developed by
