by Granny Flat Builder | Oct 22, 2025 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
As both a homeowner and one of Acrow’s skilled carpenters, Shaughn had a clear vision: to add a secondary dwelling to his Wyongah property that would generate additional rental income while maintaining a high standard of build and design. He knew the value of a well-planned investment and wanted something that would be both attractive and functional for future tenants.
Shaughn selected The Dock — a contemporary design that offers practical living with room to entertain. To enhance its appeal, he worked closely with Acrow to modify the layout slightly, adding a larger patio with an extended roof, perfect for outdoor living and easy maintenance.
Smart, Functional Upgrades
The build was completed under a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), streamlining approvals and keeping the project within budget and timeframe. Flooring choices were practical: tiles in the living areas for easy cleaning and carpet in the bedrooms for comfort.
During the colour selection and finishing stage, Shaughn added personal touches that improved both aesthetics and tenant functionality. He chose knob handles throughout, upgraded the towel rail, and included a dishwasher. A rotary clothesline was installed in lieu of a fold-out, reflecting a balance between practicality and quality living.
Constructed by B&J with a timber frame and truss system, the granny flat stands as a durable, low-maintenance investment property, combining modern design, tenant-friendly features, and clever use of space.
Outcome & Investment Benefits
The completed Wyongah granny flat is compact, stylish, and ready for tenancy. The extended patio and quality interior finishes make it appealing to renters, while the practical additions — from flooring choices to appliances — ensure low-maintenance living. Shaughn’s investment now offers a reliable source of rental income and long-term property value growth.
Wyongah Granny Flat Gallery
Granny Flats in Wyongah, Central Coast
Wyongah, centrally located between Wyong and Gorokan, is a strong market for rental properties and secondary dwellings. Homeowners looking to maximise property value and rental potential can benefit from the local CDC approval pathways, which allow fast-tracked, compliant builds.
Acrow Granny Flats combines local expertise, quality construction, and flexible design options to create investment-ready homes that work for both landlords and tenants. Whether building for income or lifestyle, our team ensures each project is efficient, attractive, and compliant.
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.
From design consultation to colour selection and final handover, Acrow manages every stage of the build. With the ability to customise layouts, incorporate practical upgrades, and navigate CDC requirements, we help investors like Shaughn turn a simple idea into a high-quality, low-maintenance rental property — delivered on time and on budget.
Explore our granny flat designs or book a free site assessment to start planning your granny flat on the Central Coast today.
Whether you’re creating a rental investment, a space for family, or a future-proof addition to your property, Acrow Granny Flats can help you achieve it. From DA submissions to final handover, our team delivers quality construction, honest guidance, and real value for your investment.
by Granny Flat Builder | Oct 21, 2025 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
When Lyndal decided to add a granny flat to her property, she wasn’t building for tenants — she was creating a place to call home. Her brief was simple but specific: a light-filled, easy-to-maintain space that offered the same comfort and quality as a main residence.
After exploring Acrow’s range of designs, Lyndal was drawn to The Willow — a popular two-bedroom layout celebrated for its smart use of space and easy flow between the kitchen, dining and living zones. Working closely with the design team, she chose to modify the plan, removing one bedroom and resizing the home from 60m² to 50m². The change fit the block perfectly, kept the build costs down, and delivered exactly what she needed — a comfortable, well-proportioned home that felt just right for her lifestyle.
A Design Tailored to Everyday Living
Built by B&J using a timber frame and truss system, Lyndal’s granny flat took the standard Willow and reimagined it with a striking skillion roof and raked ceiling through the kitchen, living, and dining area. These architectural changes instantly opened the interior, allowing natural light to flood the space and giving the home an airy, spacious feel well beyond its footprint.
To ensure longevity and performance, Acrow’s team also implemented a stormwater dispersion trench, managing water flow efficiently while keeping the site tidy and compliant with CDC requirements.
Inside, Lyndal made a series of thoughtful upgrades that elevated the home’s finish. She chose a full-height tiled bathroom, upgraded vanity and shaving cabinet, and premium fittings — including a new toilet, basin tap, and a custom shower niche for both function and style. A dishwasher was also added to make everyday life a little easier.
Granny Flat Built Under CDC Approval
Because the site met all relevant criteria, the project was approved as a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) — streamlining the approval process and reducing wait times. This pathway allowed Lyndal to move from design to construction quickly, confident that all compliance requirements were met from the start.
A Compact Home with a Big Feel
The finished home feels bright, modern, and effortlessly comfortable — exactly what Lyndal envisioned. The raked ceiling and open plan design make the living area the heart of the home, while the upgraded finishes bring a sense of luxury and personal style.
Every detail was considered, from the smooth floor transitions to the carefully selected fittings and fixtures. The result is a space that’s not just practical, but truly inviting — a home built for living, not compromise.
Blackwall Granny Flat Gallery
Granny Flats in Blackwall, Central Coast
Situated near the water between Ettalong and Woy Woy, Blackwall is one of the Central Coast’s most desirable pockets for secondary dwellings. With generous block sizes, established homes, and strong rental demand, it’s an area where a well-designed granny flat can add real value — whether for family use or investment.
Projects in Blackwall benefit from Acrow’s local knowledge of Central Coast council requirements, block layouts, and coastal construction conditions. Many sites in the region are eligible for Complying Development (CDC) approval, allowing faster turnarounds from design to build — just as Lyndal’s project demonstrated.
For homeowners considering a granny flat on the Central Coast, Acrow offers the ideal balance of quality construction, local expertise, and personal service — helping each design fit both the site and the lifestyle it’s built for.
Explore our granny flat designs or book a free site assessment to start planning your granny flat in Katoomba 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
Whether you’re creating a rental investment, a space for family, or a future-proof addition to your property, Acrow Granny Flats can help you achieve it. From DA submissions to final handover, our team delivers quality construction, honest guidance, and real value for your investment.
by Granny Flat Builder | Oct 15, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Sydney Granny Flats
When Laurie and Monica began exploring the idea of adding a granny flat to their Katoomba property, they had a clear goal in mind. They wanted a self-contained home they could rent out — something that would feel warm, welcoming and practical for long-term tenants, while adding genuine value to their property.
But their site came with a complication: being located in a bushfire-prone area meant their new build had to comply with BAL 19 construction standards. This ruled out the faster Complying Development route and required a full Development Application (DA). What they needed was a builder who understood the local conditions and could guide them through the extra approvals with confidence.
That’s where Acrow Granny Flats came in.
A Design with Real Home Comfort
After discussing their goals, Laurie and Monica chose The Trendy Plus — a 60 m² two-bedroom design that feels more like a small home than a secondary dwelling. The “Plus” version takes the popular Trendy layout and enhances it with a larger kitchen and a European laundry, giving the space a more sophisticated, lived-in feel.
Acrow’s team tailored the design to suit the Katoomba site, building on bearers and joists with a timber frame and truss system for strength and durability. Inside, hybrid vinyl plank flooring was installed throughout the living areas for easy maintenance, while the bedrooms were carpeted for warmth and comfort. Outside, merbau stairs and decking added a natural finish that blends beautifully with the mountain surroundings. A carport was also included, offering convenient covered parking for future tenants — an important feature in Katoomba’s climate.
Built for Bushfire Safety
Because of the property’s BAL 19 rating, every element of the build was carefully selected to meet bushfire construction requirements — from ember-resistant materials to specific glazing and joinery details. Acrow managed the DA submission and coordinated compliance with council and bushfire authorities, ensuring that Laurie and Monica’s investment was not only safe but fully approved and future-proofed.
The project was completed in 18½ weeks, a strong result given the site and approval complexity. From start to finish, the Acrow team handled every stage, providing a seamless experience that gave Laurie and Monica peace of mind.
A Ready-Made Investment
The completed granny flat offers everything tenants look for in a quality rental: spacious living, a well-equipped kitchen with dishwasher, internal laundry, outdoor deck, and off-street parking. It’s a comfortable, compliant, low-maintenance home — exactly what Laurie and Monica had envisioned.
Their property now includes a second dwelling that will provide reliable rental income for years to come, all while increasing the overall value of their home.
Katoomba Granny Flat Gallery
Want to Build a Granny Flat in Katoomba or Blue Mountains?
Katoomba and the wider Blue Mountains region present unique challenges for secondary dwellings. Bushfire zoning, sloped blocks and environmental overlays often mean projects can’t proceed under CDC rules. That’s why working with an experienced builder who understands local council requirements and BAL construction is essential.
Acrow Granny Flats has helped many clients across bushfire-affected areas of NSW design and build compliant, comfortable, and attractive granny flats — turning complex approvals into smooth, rewarding projects. With local experience and hundreds of completed projects across NSW, we understand the requirements of Blue Mountains 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 Katoomba 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
Whether you’re creating a rental investment, a space for family, or a future-proof addition to your property, Acrow Granny Flats can help you achieve it. From DA submissions to final handover, our team delivers quality construction, honest guidance, and real value for your investment.
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
