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    Turn Key vs Design & Build: What’s the Difference?

    19 Jan 2026•4 min read

    When exploring new build options in New Zealand, one of the first decisions is how you want to build. Some people want a ready-made path that’s simple and straightforward. Others want full creative control from the ground up.

    At Mike Greer Homes, we offer both Turn Key and Design & Build options – two clear pathways to the same goal: a home that fits your life, your budget, and your future.

    What is a Turn Key Home?

    A Turn Key home is all about simplicity.

    It’s a complete house and land package, built from one of our proven designs, with carefully selected finishes that you can personalise if you come on board early.

    With Mike Greer Homes, you pay up to a 10% deposit upfront, and the rest when your home is finished and ready to move in. There are no progress payments along the way, which makes budgeting simple.

    Why people choose Turn Key:

    • Fixed price – no hidden costs or surprises
    • Simpler decision-making with a set floor plan and colour selection
    • Minimal involvement required, ideal for first home buyers or busy homeowners
    • Simple payment structure with only a small deposit upfront

    What is Design & Build?

    Design & Build with Mike Greer Homes gives you the freedom to create a home that’s uniquely yours, while still being supported by a proven, structured build process. You can start with land you already own, or work with our team to help secure the right section for your future home.

    Most Design & Build projects are funded through a construction loan, where payments are made in stages as your home is built. This means you’re not paying for everything upfront, and your funding aligns with real construction progress – providing financial clarity and control throughout the build journey.

    Design & Build is particularly well suited for customers who are:

    • Financially ready, with stable income and lending approval in place
    • Cashed up, with savings, equity, or capital to contribute
    • Settled and established, planning a long-term home solution
    • Landowners, or those in the process of securing a section

    Working alongside our experienced design team, you’ll create a home that’s tailored to your lifestyle, budget, and site – optimising layout, sun, views, functionality, and long-term value.

    Learn more about construction loans with Kiwibank.

    Which is right for you?

    Turn Key suits buyers who value simplicity and certainty. It’s a fixed-price, move-in-ready solution with a small deposit upfront and the balance paid on completion. It’s ideal for customers who want a streamlined experience with minimal involvement in the build process.

    Design & Build is ideal for homeowners wanting a fully customised home with staged payments tied to the construction process. This option suits financially prepared buyers who are cashed up, settled, and ready to invest in a long-term home, particularly those who already own land or are securing a section.

    Build Your Dream Home with Mike Greer Homes

    Whichever path you choose, the team at Mike Greer Homes is here to make the journey simple, transparent, and rewarding.

    Ready to explore your new build options? Talk to our team today and find the pathway that’s right for you.



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