Why does building or renovating feel so risky right now? If you’ve been thinking about starting a new build or extension but feel unsure, hesitant, or overwhelmed, this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast is for you.

In this final episode for 2025, Amelia and Frank unpack why confidence in the building process has shifted over recent years. From rapidly rising construction costs and labour shortages to planning complexity, approval delays, and supply chain uncertainty, they explain what’s really driving that sense of risk, and why it’s not just about money. Frank shares insights from decades in the industry, explaining how risk has moved away from builders and now sits much more heavily with homeowners, particularly when it comes to contracts, price increases, and late-stage changes.

The conversation explores how many building problems actually start long before construction begins, often due to poor research, unrealistic expectations, or assumptions made during the design phase. They discuss why estimates feel “rubbery,” why fixed-price contracts are harder to secure, and how small decisions around land choice, materials, or selections can have major cost and timing impacts later on.

Most importantly, this episode focuses on what you can do to reduce that risk. You’ll learn why early planning, asking better questions, choosing experienced professionals, and making informed decisions upfront can dramatically reduce stress, delays, and disputes.

If building feels risky right now, this episode will help you understand why, and show you how to approach the process with far more clarity and confidence. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

In this engaging episode of the Building Design, Prime Time podcast, hosts Amelia and Frank Geskus dive deep into one of the biggest questions facing property investors today, should you renovate an existing home or build a new one? With their signature mix of expertise and down-to-earth conversation, they unpack the pros, cons, and hidden traps of both approaches, offering invaluable insights for anyone looking to make smart, informed property decisions.

Frank and Amelia explore everything from the emotional and financial challenges of entering Australia’s real estate market to the practical realities of planning approvals, renovation risks, and site constraints. They discuss how factors like location, thermal efficiency, maintenance costs, and tenant demand all influence whether a renovation or new build will deliver the best return. Along the way, they share entertaining real-world examples and a few personal lessons learned “the hard way.”

Listeners will appreciate the duo’s honest, relatable tone blending humour with hands-on experience as they tackle topics like over-designing for personal taste, choosing the right builder, and understanding what today’s tenants truly want. The episode wraps up with a passionate discussion about Australia’s housing shortage and the vital role private investors play in meeting rental demand.

Whether you’re a first-time investor, a seasoned property owner, or simply curious about building design, this episode offers practical wisdom, thoughtful reflection, and a healthy dose of inspiration. Tune in to Building Design Prime Time Podcast, where real insights meet real-life building stories.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, Frank and Amelia sit down with Sophie from Harrington Road to explore the emotional, practical, and financial challenges of downsizing, transitioning into aged care, or managing a deceased estate. Sophie shares how her team supports clients through every step of the process, from assessing human needs and property potential, to guiding families through decluttering, organising belongings, and navigating legal and financial considerations. Sophie highlights the services her team can provide in order to refresh and renovate a property, increasing the overall value without any upfront cost.

Listeners will hear real-life stories of quirky, unique, and even surprising collections uncovered during transitions, from vintage carpets and retro furniture to dolls and stamp collections, and how Harrington Road helps families decide what to keep, gift, or sell. Sophie explains how a targeted, strategic refresh of a property can dramatically increase its market value, sometimes by thousands of dollars, compared to focusing on selling individual items.

The conversation also highlights the importance of early planning, having those often “awkward conversations,” and knowing your options before a transition occurs. Whether it’s temporary storage, accommodation, or hands-on support with sorting belongings, Harrington Road tailors their services to each client’s needs, reducing stress and making the process smoother for everyone involved.

This episode is full of practical advice, heartfelt insights, and inspiring stories about bringing relief, clarity, and care to families during challenging times.

If you’re interested in learning how to make these transitions easier, increase your property’s value, or simply hear about the unique stories behind homes and their people, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Subscribe to the Building Design Prime Time Podcast now so you never miss an episode!

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.