by Granny Flat Builder | Sep 17, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Custom Granny Flats, Granny Flats, South Coast Granny Flats, Wollongong Granny Flats
When John first set out to build a granny flat in Dapto, things didn’t go to plan. His original builder went into administration, leaving the project in limbo and John unsure how to move forward.
Acrow Granny Flats was able to step in and provide the solution. Taking over the project, we designed and built a custom standalone granny flat, approved through CDC and completed in early 2025.
The flat was constructed on a slab on ground with a steel frame and truss system, reaching practical completion in just 14 weeks (excluding the Christmas shutdown) — with no extensions of time required.
To make the home more comfortable and appealing for tenants, John upgraded the build with hybrid flooring throughout, double roller blinds, security mesh flyscreens, a wall-mounted vanity, and a bevelled edge mirror. Aside from these personal touches and standard level 2 electrical works, the build stayed on track with no variations.
For John, the experience was completely different from where he started. He was able to watch his project progress quickly and smoothly, with clear updates and attention to detail every step of the way. In his five-star Google review, he shared:
“We are so happy with our decision to pick Acrow Granny Flats. From the first meeting we knew they were different. They have such amazing people and processes that really work. Communications were great with written weekly updates on what was done and what is planned for the next week. The speed was unbelievable, the neighbours could not believe how fast it went up. The project manager was a magician in the way he co-ordinated the trades and dealt with any obstacles. Then when it was completed the quality was first class. The defect list was fixed in one day! I recommend anyone wanting to build – make sure you call these guys.”
This Dapto granny flat shows that even when a project starts with challenges, Acrow can provide the expertise, reliability, and care needed to deliver a first-class result.
Dapto Granny Flat Gallery
Want to Build a Granny Flat in Dapto or the Illawarra?
If you’re thinking about adding a granny flat in Dapto or anywhere across the Illawarra and Wollongong region, Acrow Granny Flats can help turn your plans into reality. Whether you need extra space for family, want to create an investment property, or simply want to unlock the potential of your backyard, we design and build granny flats that suit your land, budget, and lifestyle.
With local experience and hundreds of completed projects across NSW, we understand the requirements of Illawarra councils and deliver high-quality results that add value to your property. From compact one-bedroom designs to larger custom layouts, we’ll guide you from approvals through to handover.
Explore our granny flat designs or book a free site assessment to start planning your granny flat in Dapto today.
Why Choose Acrow Granny Flats?
Building a granny flat is a big decision, and choosing the right builder makes all the difference. At Acrow, we pride ourselves on being the builder that clients can trust and rely on.
- Proven Track Record – With projects completed across the Central Coast, Illawarra, Canberra, and beyond, our portfolio speaks for itself.
- Clear Communication – Clients receive regular updates so they always know what stage their build is at.
- Efficient Timelines – We set realistic build times and stick to them, even when projects involve unique challenges.
- Quality First – From strong steel frames to thoughtful finishes, every detail is handled with care.
- Support at Every Stage – From the first site assessment through approvals and construction, our team makes the process straightforward.
Many clients, like John in Dapto, come to Acrow after experiencing delays or setbacks elsewhere — and find the stability, organisation, and workmanship they were looking for.
Book a free site inspection for your Granny Flat on the NSW South Coast – or anywhere in NSW or ACT
by Granny Flat Builder | Sep 5, 2025 | Granny Flats
Caring for ageing parents often comes with tough choices. Do they stay in the family home, move into residential aged care, or find a way to live independently while still being close to family? With major changes to Australia’s aged care system now underway, building a granny flat could be one of the smartest and most supportive options. Building a granny flat may even now cost less thanks to several interest rate cuts, which make loans cheaper and more manageable
1. Aged Care Policy Is Shifting to ‘Care at Home’
From July 2025, the Federal Government will begin rolling out the new Support at Home Program, which replaces the existing Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care.
The reforms are designed to:
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Expand support for services delivered at home (like nursing, cleaning, shopping, or mobility aids).
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Increase the number of funding levels from four to eight, with more generous budgets for higher-care needs.
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Guarantee older Australians will be “no worse off” as the system changes.
Source: Department of Health – Support at Home reforms
What this means for you: More people will be supported to stay living at home — and if your parents are in a granny flat on your property, that care can be delivered there just as easily as in their own standalone home.
2. Extra Home Care Packages Are Being Fast-Tracked
The government has also announced 20,000 additional Home Care Packages by the end of 2025, as part of a broader commitment to roll out 43,000 places by 2026.
This is good news for families on the waiting list. It means your parents are more likely to access the in-home support they need — whether that’s personal care, meals, or allied health services — without having to consider moving into a nursing home.
Source: The Guardian – Labor brings forward 20,000 in-home aged care places
Pairing this funding with a well-designed granny flat makes it easier to combine government-funded care with the day-to-day support you already provide as family.
3. Avoiding Hospital Delays and Residential Aged Care
In NSW, thousands of older people remain in hospital beds longer than necessary because there aren’t enough suitable home care or aged care places available. This not only impacts the health system but also delays people returning to a familiar environment.
Source: Daily Telegraph – Shock figures expose NSW hospital discharge delays
A granny flat on your property gives your parents a safe and private space to come back to, while still being close enough for you to help — and new policy investment is aimed precisely at making these transitions smoother.
4. A Granny Flat Future-Proofs Your Family’s Living Arrangements
Even beyond the health system changes, granny flats bring practical, long-term benefits:
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Independence with connection: Parents have their own space, but support is close at hand.
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Flexible use over time: If circumstances change, the granny flat can later become a rental, a guest home, or a place for grown children.
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Financial advantage: Building a granny flat often costs less than years of residential aged care fees and may add value to your property.
With the Federal Government reshaping aged care to prioritise support at home, the case for building a granny flat has never been stronger. It aligns with the direction of policy, gives your parents independence, and ensures they can access government-funded care in a familiar environment — all while keeping family close.
Thinking about building a granny flat for your parents?
For families weighing up the decision, it’s worth exploring not just the government reforms but also the practical side of building for ageing parents. We’ve shared advice on weighing up the costs and benefits of granny flats, tips on designing with elderly relatives in mind, and even guidance on how to start the granny flat conversation with your parents. Together with the government’s push to expand care at home, these insights show why building a granny flat for your parents is not only viable but one of the most supportive choices you can make.
The Acrow team can help you assess your property, design for comfort and accessibility, and navigate council requirements. Contact us.
by Granny Flat Builder | Aug 14, 2025 | Granny Flats
With interest rates in Australia easing, now is a great time to look at building a granny flat — not just for the extra living space, but for the investment potential. Let’s walk through some example numbers so you can see exactly how much it could cost (and save) you each month. Acrow are starting new build Granny Flats with smart investors every week. Have a look at this custom Granny Flat in San Remo earning 24k per year, this CDC Granny Flat in Newcastle making $27k per year, or this one in Metford generating $26k per year.
The Example Build
Acrow Granny Flats prices start at around $200k in New South Wales and $220k in the ACT. We’ve used a sensible illustration of $250k for our worked example – but its highly possible for you to outlay an even lower initial capital cost. We can do a ballpark quote for you anytime here.
- Build cost: $250,000
- Deposit: 20% ($50,000)
- Borrowed amount: 80% ($200,000) via equity from your existing home
- Interest rate: 3.99% p.a. (variable, interest-only for illustration)
Monthly Repayments at 3.99%
For a $200,000 interest-only loan at 3.99%:
Annual interest = $200,000 × 0.0399 = $7,980
Monthly interest = $7,980 ÷ 12 ≈ $665
Potential Rental Income
As evidenced by our examples in the introduction, a well-built, 2-bedroom granny flat in NSW or the ACT can often rent for $400–$550/week, depending on location and features.
Let’s work on the lower end:
$400/week × 52 weeks = $20,800 per year
That’s about $1,733 per month in gross income.
Before-Tax Cashflow
- Income: $1,733/month
- Interest cost: $665/month
- Positive cashflow before tax: ~$1,068/month
The Tax Advantage – Depreciation
If your granny flat is built as a rental property, the Australian Tax Office (ATO) allows you to claim depreciation on the structure and fittings.
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Capital works deduction: $250,000 × 0.025 = $6,250/year
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Plant and equipment deduction: Sometimes another $2,000–$4,000/year early on
To maximise your tax deductions, it’s important to have a licensed quantity surveyor prepare your depreciation schedule. The Australian Tax Office requires a professionally prepared report to substantiate your claims, and a qualified surveyor can ensure nothing is missed — from capital works to plant and equipment items. Acrow works with trusted, accredited surveyors and can put you in touch with the right professionals to get your schedule completed quickly and accurately. A report will cost you around $600 – another tax deduction perhaps – but is well worth the annual deduction you can get.
What That Means at Tax Time
If your rental income is $18,200 and your interest cost is $7,980:
Operating profit before tax: $10,220/year
Now subtract depreciation:
Lets estimate $7,000 depreciation = $4,220 taxable profit
If you’re on a 32.5% marginal tax rate, tax payable = ~$1,371.50.
That’s much lower than without depreciation — and in some scenarios (with maintenance and other deductible expenses) you could actually report a loss for tax purposes while still being cashflow positive.
Why the Lower Interest Rate Matters
At the previous rate of 5.5%, the same $200,000 loan would cost:
$200,000 × 0.055 = $11,000/year interest = $917/month.
That’s $252 more per month compared to 3.99%. Over a year, that’s $3,024 saved — enough to cover several months of insurance, maintenance, or even part of your rates.
The Bottom Line
With today’s interest rates, a well-located granny flat can:
- Cover its own loan repayments
- Generate extra cashflow
- Deliver significant tax deductions through depreciation schedules
If you’ve been thinking about building, the numbers are looking better than they have in years.
This is not specific financial advise and is provided for illustration purposes only. You should always consult your tax and financial advisors before making a big decision
by Granny Flat Builder | Jul 21, 2025 | Granny Flats
With rents climbing year after year, many young Australians are trapped paying off someone else’s mortgage instead of building their own future. But there’s a smarter way: instead of sending $600—or more—every week to a landlord, your kids could be contributing to an asset that grows your family’s wealth.
Building a granny flat in your backyard lets you do exactly that. Your children get affordable, stable housing, while you increase the value of your property and even generate extra income. It’s a win-win that helps everyone save money and plan for the future. With 2025 Interest rates dropping, now is a good time to look at this opportunity.
For many families, this simple step turns a costly rental situation into a wealth-building opportunity — and it’s easier to make the numbers work than you might think.
The Example Build
- Granny flat build cost: $250,000
- Deposit: $50,000 (20%)
- Borrowed amount: $200,000 via equity from your home
- Interest rate: 3.99% p.a. (variable, interest-only for illustration)
Loan Repayments at 3.99%
- $200,000 × 0.0399 = $7,980/year in interest
- Monthly interest = $7,980 ÷ 12 ≈ $665/month
What Your Kids Pay Instead of Rent
If your son or daughter pays $600/week for the granny flat:
- $300/week × 52 weeks = $15,600/year
- That’s $1,300/month
Your Cashflow
- Loan cost: $665/month
- Child’s contribution: $1,300/month
- Surplus: ~$635/month (before tax)
This surplus can cover insurance, maintenance, or offset your own mortgage, while still providing an affordable living option for your child.
What They Save
By moving from $600/week rent to $300/week contribution:
- They save $300/week, which totals $15,600/year
- Over 5 years, that’s $78,000 saved, not including bond deposits, moving costs, or other rental expenses
Plus, that’s money helping build equity in your property and family assets, not someone else’s.
The Tax Advantage for You
If you later decide to rent the granny flat to someone else, you can claim depreciation:
- Capital works deduction: $250,000 × 2.5% = $6,250/year
- Plant & equipment deduction: $2,000–$4,000/year in early years
That’s up to $10,000/year in deductions, reducing your taxable income. Check with a licensed quantity surveyor for a full depreciation schedule and ensure compliance with the ATO.
Note: While a granny flat rented to family is still considered an income-earning asset, you should consider the capital gains tax implications if you later sell the family home. Professional advice is recommended.
Future Flexibility
Once your kids move out, you have options:
- Rent it out at market rates ($400–$550/week in many areas)
- Use it for extended family or guests
- Sell your home with the granny flat as a value-adding feature
The Bottom Line
A granny flat isn’t just a building — it’s a financial tool that:
- Gives your kids a stable, affordable place to live
- Lets you recoup costs and even profit while helping them
- Becomes a long-term asset for your family’s future
With smart planning, your granny flat can turn rising rents from a drain on your family into a wealth-building opportunity — keeping your kids housed and contributing to a brighter financial future.
This is not specific financial advice and is provided for illustration purposes only. You should always consult your tax and financial advisors before making a big decision
by Granny Flat Builder | Jul 7, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Lake Macquarie Granny Flats
Set in the rising-growth suburb of Woodrising, this 48m² custom granny flat is a standout for its careful planning, BAL 29 compliance, and thoughtful multigenerational purpose.
Designed to allow a daughter to support her elderly mother on-site—while maintaining privacy and independence—the project was completed in 2024 under Lake Macquarie Council approval. It’s a true example of how we help homeowners navigate challenging sites and complex requirements, all while keeping the process respectful and collaborative.
Why Woodrising Is a Smart Spot for a Granny Flat
Woodrising, in Lake Macquarie’s western corridor, continues to attract attention for its large blocks, strong local infrastructure, and proximity to Newcastle. For families already living in the area, adding a secondary dwelling is a strategic way to future-proof their lifestyle—whether it’s for elderly parents, teenagers, or live-in carers.
This block was no exception, but the access and bushfire zoning meant careful planning was key.
Custom Design with Standard Inclusions
The home itself is a custom 1-bedroom layout with a compact footprint and a practical floorplan:
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48m² internal area with an additional covered porch for weather-protected entry
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Open-plan kitchen, dining, and living with plenty of natural light
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Dedicated laundry and full bathroom
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Built on a slab-on-ground using a steel frame and truss system for long-term durability
Despite the bespoke layout, the owner selected standard inclusions throughout, proving that smart design doesn’t need expensive upgrades to feel complete.
Built to BAL 29 Standards and Energy Commitments
With a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) of 29, construction was adapted to suit both environmental requirements and the owner’s peace of mind. Features include:
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Toughened glazing to windows and sliding doors
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Aluminium mesh flyscreens for ember protection
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Eave and roof penetration protections
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Non-combustible cladding, sarking and insulation materials
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Sealed LED lighting and energy-efficient air conditioning systems
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Rainwater tank connected to toilet and laundry, helping meet BASIX water commitments
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R4.0 insulation to ceiling and R2.5 insulation to walls for improved year-round comfort
Together, these features ensured compliance with both bushfire and energy efficiency codes—without compromise to functionality or form.
A Difficult Site, Carefully Managed
This build came with one major obstacle: limited access to the rear yard. In fact, access was so restricted that an excavator had to be craned into position just to begin site works.
With tight logistics, bushfire zoning, and the homeowner living on-site throughout construction, careful coordination was essential. Having a client with previous owner-builder experience proved to be a real advantage—she understood the process, asked smart questions, and collaborated with the team to keep things moving smoothly.
Woodrising Lake Macquarie Granny Flat
Multigenerational Living That Works
Building for an aging parent means more than just adding a room—it requires privacy, access, and comfort. This project delivered on all three, offering a space where family can remain close without sacrificing independence.
Whether it’s caring for loved ones or future-proofing your lifestyle, a granny flat like this is more than just a structure—it’s a living solution.
Have a tricky block or unique living need? Let’s talk.
Acrow helps families across NSW and the ACT build secondary dwellings that are functional, future-ready, and built to last—even when site access, bushfire zones, or council rules seem overwhelming.
Book a free site inspection today to find out what’s possible for your block—custom designs, standard inclusions, real results.
by Granny Flat Builder | Jul 4, 2025 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
For this savvy Central Coast investor, adding a granny flat to their San Remo property was about more than just ticking a box. It was a chance to maximise rental potential while showcasing great spatial thinking—and the result is a smart 60m², two-bedroom home that delivers both liveability and return on investment.
Approved via DA and completed in 2024, this project was handled by Mick (Sales) and Chris (Project Management), who brought the client’s vision to life from an existing custom layout.
Clever Design, Created for Rental Appeal
While many granny flats follow a typical L-shape or corridor layout, this custom floor plan breaks the mould. The client had a clear spatial strategy: place the bathroom and both bedrooms into one corner, freeing up the rest of the home for an expansive open-plan living, dining, and kitchen zone.
This design means:
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Less hallway = more usable space
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Smoother furniture placement and uncluttered walls
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A wide double sliding door opens to the side yard—ideal for creating indoor-outdoor flow for future tenants
This orientation not only improves privacy between bedrooms and living zones, but allows clear side access—a highly desirable feature for renters or guests.
Built to Perform, With Timber and Bearers & Joists
Constructed on bearers and joists with a timber frame and truss system, the home is built for long-term durability and compliance. The design adheres to all applicable energy efficiency and BASIX requirements, including:
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R2.5 wall insulation & R3.0 ceiling insulation
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Rainwater tank connected to toilet and laundry
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Air conditioning installed to both bedrooms and the living area
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Sealed LED lighting and ventilation to BCA standards
Thoughtful Upgrades That Tenants Will Appreciate
The client came to us with a clear layout in mind, and from there, worked closely with our team to fine-tune both the design and finishes. Together, we focused on smart, rental-friendly upgrades—features that lift the appeal of the home without pushing the budget beyond what makes sense for an investment.
Key upgrades include:
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Kitchen island bench to separate the living space and create extra prep room
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Tiling to full ceiling height in the bathroom for a polished look
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Wall-hung vanity and upgraded shaving cabinet
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Pull-out spray mixer tap in the kitchen
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Carpet to bedrooms for comfort and warmth
These touches help elevate the flat beyond a basic fit-out, making it more appealing to quality tenants looking for a home, not just a rental.
$460 Weekly Rent Potential in San Remo
According to Domain.com.au, the median rent for two-bedroom homes in San Remo is $460 per week—or almost $24,000 annually. That’s a strong return for a 60m² footprint, especially when built on an already owned investment property.
This project shows what’s possible when you combine a great block, a clear rental strategy, and a team that knows how to execute a custom design efficiently.
Custom San Remo Granny Flat
An Investor Build That Sets the Standard
From the considered layout to smart upgrade choices, this San Remo granny flat is a strong example of how Acrow supports investors—from early layout review through to council submission and handover. With standard compliance, thoughtful selections, and experienced project management, the outcome is a rental-ready secondary dwelling designed to generate income from day one.
Thinking about building a granny flat to generate income?
Whether you’ve already drafted a layout or are just exploring options, we can help you build a smart, compliant and rentable secondary dwelling across NSW and the ACT.
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📝 Book a free site inspection to get started
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