TL;DR: A turnkey home is ready to live in at handover, with common essentials included such as flooring, blinds, appliances, driveway and basic landscaping. It suits buyers who want price certainty and less hassle, but always check inclusions, allowances and site costs before you sign.
You hear the term all the time when you speak to builders. But what is a turnkey home, and how does it change your build journey?
This guide explains what a turnkey build covers, how the process works, the pros and cons, and how to choose the right builder in Queensland.
We keep the language clear so you can compare options with confidence.
A turnkey home is delivered complete. That usually means all the items you need to live there from day one are included.
The exact list can change from builder to builder, which is why it is important to request a detailed inclusions schedule.
In short, a turnkey package removes the guesswork by bundling the day one essentials into a clear scope and price.
It suits first‑home buyers, time‑poor families, and investors who want a property that is truly move‑in or rent‑ready without organising extra trades after handover.
Turnkey should cover more than the shell of the house. Ask for the full inclusions list and check the following groups.
Even with turnkey, some items can sit outside the base price. Common examples include rock removal, retaining walls on steep blocks, upgraded air conditioning, smart home systems, or premium landscaping.
Check the list and ask for written prices for anything that is marked as an allowance.
A clear process sets the tone for a smooth build. Here is how a typical turnkey project runs.
You share your wish list, block details and budget so the builder understands what matters to you.
They confirm whether a turnkey build suits your plan and walk you through a clear inclusions list, costs and next steps for your home.
Your site is checked for slope, soil type, drainage and access to services.
If anything tricky shows up, the builder can adjust the design, engineering and budget before work begins so the build runs smoothly.
You choose or tailor a plan, then the builder prepares an inclusions schedule in clear, plain language that matches your selections. This keeps expectations aligned and avoids confusion later.
Once your plans and inclusions are locked in, you receive a contract, often at a fixed price. Any allowances should be clearly listed, fair, and based on real costs in your local Queensland market.
The home is built in stages, with base, frame, lock up and fit off as the common milestones. You receive updates and can visit at agreed points.
Final inspections are completed before practical completion, and at handover you receive keys, manuals, certificates and warranty details.
A true turnkey handover means you can move straight in without booking extra trades.
Turnkey is not one size fits all. Look out for the following.
Thinking about upgrading an existing home instead of building new? See this guide to the best remodelling companies to compare options and plan your next st
Use the same lens for each quote so you can compare apples to apples.
Still weighing up whether to build new or buy established? Read our guide on building vs buying for a clear look at costs, timelines and what to expect in Queensland.
Read the full contract and the inclusions schedule before you sign. Ask the builder to explain prime cost and provisional sum items and show product examples at that price point.
Keep a written record of every change and approval, and consider using an independent inspector at key stages. Check that the builder is licensed and insured.
In Queensland you can confirm this on the QBCC register.
Choosing a builder is as important as choosing the plan. Here is how Liberty Builders supports a smooth turnkey journey for Queensland homeowners.
Liberty Builders knows Queensland conditions, codes and local suppliers, so your design fits the site and approvals move faster.
Packages are chosen for durability and value, with options to personalise key items to suit your style and budget.
Each stage is checked and you get regular updates from a single point of contact.
Ready for a move‑in‑ready home without the guesswork? We will review your block, budget, and wish list, then give you a clear inclusions list and next steps.
Book a free 30 minute Turnkey Consult with Liberty Builders.
