How to Choose a Home Builder in Christchurch (Without the Stress or Regret) Advice From Kian Clements-Ormond
- Hedgley Homes
- Jun 25
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 25

Building a home isn’t just a project.
It’s where your kids will grow up.
Where your life will unfold.
Where memories will live in every corner.
So yeah—choosing the right home builder?
It’s a big deal.
And if you’re reading this, you probably already feel the weight of that.
Maybe you’ve heard the stories…
The builder who disappeared halfway through.
The extra $40k that wasn’t in the original quote.
Or the dream home that somehow turned into a nightmare.
You deserve better.
And this guide will help make sure you get it.

1. Start With Your Dream — Not Theirs
Before you sit down with any builder, pause for a second.
Take a breath. Make a cup of tea. And ask yourself:
"What does home look like for me?"
"Do I want to be involved in the design, or leave it to the experts?"
"What’s more important: timeline, budget, design details, or all three?"
Clarity is power.
When you’re clear on what matters to you, it’s easier to spot a builder who’s aligned—and filter out the ones who aren’t.

2. Look at What They’ve Actually Built — Not Just What They Say
Don’t just take their word for it.
Ask to see:
Homes they’ve built in Christchurch (not stock photos)
Floorplans that feel like they could work for your lifestyle
Reviews or video testimonials from families like yours
Even better?
Ask if you can walk through a finished home or talk to a past client.
The good ones won’t hesitate.

3. Pay Attention to How They Make You Feel in Early Conversations
Some builders will talk at you.
Some will listen to you.
Notice:
Do they slow down and explain things clearly?
Do they ask questions that show they’re genuinely interested in your life, your family, and your priorities?
Do they respect your budget?
This relationship matters.
You’re going to be in communication for months, maybe longer.
You need to feel like they’ve got your back from day one.
4. Ask the Questions Most People Are Too Nervous to Ask
We get it. Asking the “tough questions” can feel awkward.
But here’s the truth:
The people who don’t ask these questions? They’re usually the ones who end up blindsided.
Ask these questions:
“How do you handle delays or weather issues?”
“What happens if the quote changes—how will you communicate that?”
“Can I talk to someone who built with you last year?”
You’re not being difficult.
You’re being smart.
5. Make Sure They Have a Clear Process (Not Just Promises)
It’s easy to say, “We’ve got it all handled.”
But can they show you how?
Here’s our step-by-step process at Hedgley Corporation:
Initial Consultation — no pressure, just clarity, and getting to know YOU and what YOU want.
Concept Session — your ideas + our design experts
Fixed Price Quote — full transparency, no nasty surprises
Build Updates — weekly check-ins so you never feel left behind
On-Time Handover — so you can plan your life with confidence
A good process removes anxiety.
You should never have to wonder “What’s happening next?”
6. Watch for Hidden Costs in the Quote
If a quote feels too good to be true, it probably is.
Ask:
Are earthworks included?
What about council fees, driveways, landscaping?
Is the insulation standard or upgraded?
Are we building for today’s code… or cutting corners?
You have a right to understand where your money is going.
A builder who hides details is not a builder who deserves your trust.
7. Trust Your Gut — and Ask for the Facts to Back It Up
This is your home.
Your future.
Your peace of mind.
If you feel hesitation with a builder, don’t ignore it.
If something feels right, but you want to be sure, ask for proof.
The right builder will welcome that.
“You’re Not Just Building a House. You’re Building a Life.” Said Kian Clements-Ormond of Hedgley Corporation

You deserve a team that understands that.
At Hedgley Corporation, we’ve helped build over 101 Kiwi homes.
We make sure you have your own inputs on your build inside and out, and walk with you—step by step—until your dream comes true.
Here's What Hedgley Corporation's Clients Have to Say:
HOW LYNN BUILT HER DREAM HOME WHILE TRAVELING
“Hedgley Corporation built my house in Halswell, Christchurch, which I'm very pleased with, and I now have a lovely home.
I was consulted throughout the journey, which ensured I was able to have an input into the build, both externally and internally, and the appliances in my house.
Everyone I had any contact with was both helpful and respectful, and made every attempt to answer my queries and resolve any issues.
I was away in Australia for most of the build, and his ability to manage everything made an enormous difference for me.
TONIJAE'S STRESS-FREE BUILDING EXPERIENCE
"We had a wonderful experience building our first home in Amberley with Hedgley Corporation!
The team we worked alongside was all very friendly and helpful!
We’ve been in our home since 28/05/2023 and it’s been fantastic, when we have encountered issues or questions after moving in, the Hedgley team has still been of great help!"
CADDY WAS SHOCKED TO SEE HER NEW HOME...
"When we were looking for a building company, we did a lot of research as we naturally wanted to make sure we align ourselves with a professional company that delivers what they say they will and that is sound.
We took a leap of faith with Hedgley Corporation as they were relatively new and we have not been disappointed from start to finish.
What we liked initially about Hedgley Corporation was their designs and vision for creating a house that was not your regular run-of-the-mill house.
Hedgley Corporation and along with a fantastic builder, and built us a stunning quality home for us which we are absolutely thrilled with.
Their communication, follow-up, and professionalism was brilliant from their Project Manager; Kian Clements-Ormond; throughout the whole process.
We highly recommend Hedgley Corporation."
Ready for Clarity?
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We’re here to help—even if you’re just in the early stages.
Let’s make this exciting again.
Let’s build something beautiful — together.