FAQ
We understand that purchasing a small home can feel like a big step, and the process may seem complex.
To help guide you through every stage, we've put together some frequently asked questions and clear answers to make your journey easier.
Whether you're looking to customise your design or learn more about the logistics, we're here to ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish.
General
A Homewerk Small Home is a meticulously crafted, compact living space that embodies comfort, beauty, and functionality. Drawing inspiration from the charm of 1960s New Zealand state homes, each Small Home is customisable with various layouts, colourways, and cladding options. Each is designed to be transportable and available nationwide across New Zealand and Australia, with a fixed-price build cost.
We offer three unique floor plans: the Petite, Original, and Double, all under 60sqm. These layouts are perfect for use as a granny flat, minor dwelling, stand-alone first home, or as a bach. Each is designed to maximise space and provide practical, stylish living solutions for those downsizing or looking for a secondary dwelling on their property.
Absolutely! You can personalise your Small Home by selecting from a curated range of colourways, timeless cladding options, and high-quality fittings. Our design-led approach allows you to create a space that genuinely reflects your individual style.
Homewerk Small Homes feature high-quality, sustainable materials that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. These include Aalto art paint for distinctive, characterful finishes; Abode cladding for durability and style; sustainable cork flooring for eco-friendly comfort; and natural insulation to maintain a cosy, energy-efficient environment. We also incorporate mid-century-inspired fittings, stainless steel worktops, and custom-built furniture, with carefully selected accents like Charlotte Perriand-inspired lights for a timeless look that feels both modern and enduring.
Yes, each Homewerk Small Home features thoughtfully designed, custom-built furniture to make the most of every square metre. Included is a built-in L-shaped lounge suite with generous under-seat storage, perfect for keeping essentials close but neatly out of sight. A built-in dining table provides a dedicated space for meals and gatherings without taking up extra room, while a built-in desk in the bedroom offers a convenient workspace that complements the home’s compact, efficient design. These built-ins blend seamlessly with the layout to create a clutter-free, practical, and stylish living environment.
Homewerk Small Homes are designed with energy efficiency at the forefront. They meet Healthy Homes standards, ensuring excellent ventilation, heating, and insulation. The use of thermally broken joinery and well-insulated walls helps maintain a comfortable temperature year-round while reducing energy costs. Additionally, we’ve incorporated top-quality Skyline windows that feature a built-in rain sensor. These windows automatically open and close, creating passive cooling and enhancing air circulation throughout the home, ensuring fresh airflow without compromising energy efficiency.
A Homewerk Small Home can be placed on a wide variety of land types, including rural properties, coastal sites, or urban backyards. Just ensure to check local council regulations for building consent and land-use requirements. Many councils in Aotearoa allow minor dwellings on existing sections with minimal hassle.
It’s straightforward:
- Get in touch to discuss your ideas and needs.
- Select your preferred floor plan, colourways, cladding, and fittings.
- We’ll reserve your slot in our build schedule and handle the rest, working with transport and draughting professionals.
- Your home is built, delivered, and ready to be moved into!
Once your design is finalized and you've secured a build slot, the process typically takes 5 to 6 months. However, build times may vary depending on your specific choices and any custom requirements.
Yes, we offer nationwide delivery across New Zealand, including remote locations such as Waiheke Island and the South Island. Whether you're looking for a compact prefab home, modular home, or tiny house, we ensure your transportable home is delivered to your desired site. We also offer affordable shipping options to Australia, making our small, sustainable homes available across the Tasman. No matter your location, we'll get your custom-built home to you with ease.
The cost of building a Homewerk Small Home depends on your chosen floor plan, customisations, and finishes. Our pricing starts from $165,000 + GST for our tiny home studio and ranges up to $240,000 + GST for our two-bedroom Double. Whether you're interested in a modular home, a tiny house, or a prefabricated home, we offer competitive prices that reflect the quality of our sustainable, eco-friendly homes. For a detailed, personalised quote, please contact us directly or use our online home builder tool to explore options tailored to your budget and requirements.
Yes, all Homewerk Small Homes require council consent, but the process is simple! Every modular home comes with its Code Compliance Certificate (CCC), ensuring it meets all necessary building standards. With our homes, you’ll need only a Site Connection and Foundations Consent from your local council. Our experienced team will assist you in navigating the process, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free experience from start to finish.
We recommend discussing financing options with your bank or a mortgage broker. Some clients choose to add their small home as a second dwelling or investment property, while others use savings or personal loans. Westpac is a great bank that offers prefab home loans, making it easier to finance your modular home. Whether you're looking to secure a loan for a tiny home or a larger prefabricated home, we can help guide you through the process.
At Homewerk, our commitment to you doesn’t end with delivery. We provide ongoing support for the life of your modular home or tiny house, ensuring that you are fully comfortable in your new sustainable, transportable home. Whether you need help with settling in, maintenance advice, or have questions about your custom-built home, we are always here to assist you with expert guidance and support.