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Your Guide to Off-the-Plan Success

architecture

12 June 2025

As co-founder and managing director of Australia’s premier off-the-plan listings. portal, Apartments & Developments, Tom Hywood and his team have played a key role in connecting thousands of buyers with premium off-the-plan properties across Australia.

Tom shares his insights on what to consider when purchasing a premium apartment, townhouse or penthouse.

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne’s inner suburbs offers a unique opportunity: access to brand-new homes in some of the city’s most desirable locations, often with greater flexibility around design, finishes and settlement timelines. Whether you’re after an apartment with uninterrupted views, a generously sized townhouse with a high walkability score, or a luxe penthouse in a boutique development, buying off-the-plan lets you secure the property ahead of market growth and tailor it to suit your lifestyle.

To help you make an informed decision, here are some practical tips—and the key questions worth asking.

1. Look with the team behind the project

One of the best indicators of how your experience will unfold is the track record of the developer and builder. Take time to review their previous projects, check completion timelines, and ask how buyers responded to the finished product. A strong reputation is always a good sign.

Ask your agent: Can you show me examples of the developer’s past projects? How have they been received?

2. Consider the design beyond the surface

Design is about more than just finishes—it’s about how the home will feel to live in. A well-planned layout, good natural light, generous proportions and quality materials all make a lasting difference. Great design should support your lifestyle and stand the test of time.

Tip: Ask your agent to walk you through the floor plan so you can understand why certain design decisions were made.

3. Clarify what’s included

Make sure you’re clear on what’s included in the base price, and where there may be opportunities to upgrade—whether that’s appliances, stone surfaces, flooring, lighting or outdoor spaces. Most developers provide a detailed schedule of finishes, so ask for this and clarify any available options to customise and personalise your home.

Ask your agent: Can I see the full list of inclusions? Are there any customisation options available?

4. Review the contract with expert guidance

Off-the-plan contracts typically include elements that differ from those in standard purchases. Your solicitor should be experienced in these types of agreements. Key items to check include timelines, deposit structure, how changes to the plan are handled, and what to expect after settlement.

Tip: Ask your solicitor to walk you through the process from contract to completion, so you know exactly what to expect.

5. Understand how the neighbourhood is evolving

Even in the most established suburbs, the local landscape is always changing. Premium areas often see ongoing development, such as knockdown rebuilds or boutique infill projects, which can subtly shift streetscapes, outlooks and levels of privacy over time. Ask about any nearby planning applications or changes that could impact the future appeal of the area.

Ask your agent: Are there any upcoming developments or planning changes in the area that could affect the outlook, access or amenity in future?

6. Keep track of timelines and progress

One of the key advantages of buying off-the-plan is having time to plan your move or manage other property transitions. Make sure you understand the expected timeline, how updates will be communicated, and when decisions around customisation and settlement will need to be made.

Ask your agent: When can I expect completion, and how will I be kept informed during the construction process?

Final thought: lean on your expert agent

Purchasing off-the-plan gives you access to quality homes in premium neighbourhoods - often ahead of the curve. It’s a rewarding process when approached with the right information and support. Ask questions, do your research, and focus on what matters most to you - whether it’s space, outdoor entertaining, views or walkable surroundings. Finally, lean on your agent who has intimate knowledge of not just the project they’re selling, but also of the local area in which they’re selling it.

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