Why Granny Flats Are Booming Across Sydney, Central Coast, and Newcastle

Why Granny Flats Are Booming Across Sydney, Central Coast, and Newcastle

by | Apr 9, 2025 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Sydney Granny Flats

Recent research featured in major media outlets has revealed a surprising fact: up to a million residential properties across Australia may have the space and zoning potential to accommodate a granny flat.

Notably, Sydney, the Central Coast, and Newcastle emerged as the areas with the highest number of properties suitable for secondary dwellings — highlighting the sheer scale of untapped opportunity for homeowners and investors alike.

Top 50 Suburbs With Granny Flat Potential

Some of the top-performing suburbs with the most opportunities include:

Sydney Region
Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill, Cherrybrook, Carlingford, West Pennant Hills, Frenchs Forest, St Ives, Epping, Wahroonga, Blacktown, Pymble, Turramurra, Winston Hills, Quakers Hill, Kellyville, St Clair, St Marys, Beecroft, Seven Hills, Greystanes, Ryde, Hornsby, Eastwood, Belrose, North Rocks, Kings Langley, Forestville, Cranebrook, Killara, Bradbury, Strathfield, Ashfield, Glenmore Park, Thornleigh, Roseville, Doonside, Mount Colah, Hornsby Heights, North Ryde, Allambie Heights, Beacon Hill, South Penrith

Central Coast & Newcastle
Wyoming, Bateau Bay, Terrigal, Umina Beach, Narara, Berkeley Vale, Avoca Beach, Killarney Vale, Green Point, Gorokan

If you own a home in one of these areas, adding a granny flat could be a smart next move.

Granny Flats and Tax Deductions in Australia

One of the reasons granny flats have become so attractive to property owners is the potential for tax deductions. When built and rented out under the right conditions, granny flats can be income-generating assets — and the associated expenses may be deductible.

Want to understand how it works? Take a look at our Guide to Making Your Granny Flat Tax Deductible.

Why Granny Flats Are Gaining Popularity

As property prices rise and the housing supply remains under pressure, many Australians are turning to granny flats as a practical solution — both financially and socially.

Whether it’s to generate rental income, provide space for adult children or ageing parents, or increase property value, granny flats offer homeowners flexibility and long-term benefits. And with rental demand surging across NSW, especially in metro and coastal regions, the timing has never been better.

The Benefits of Building a Granny Flat

Granny flats (or secondary dwellings) are no longer just for grandparents. Here’s why more people are building them:

  • Earn Extra Income
    Renting out your granny flat can provide a reliable second income to help pay the mortgage or fund other goals.

  • Increase Your Property Value
    A well-designed granny flat can significantly boost your home’s market appeal and resale value.

  • Enjoy Flexible Use
    Perfect for multigenerational living, guest accommodation, or future downsizing without leaving your neighbourhood.

  • Contribute to Local Housing Solutions
    In regions facing tight rental markets, offering a secondary dwelling can provide much-needed affordable housing options.

  • Potential Tax Advantages
    Depending on how your granny flat is used, you may be eligible for tax deductions on expenses like maintenance, depreciation, and insurance.

Granny flats represent a smart, future-proof strategy for homeowners looking to get more from their property — especially in high-demand areas like Sydney, Newcastle, and the Central Coast.

If you’re considering building a granny flat, get in touch with our experienced team to discuss the possibilities for your site. Whether it’s for family, lifestyle, or rental return, we’ll help you make it happen.

Granny Flats: CDC vs DA – the Pros and Cons of Each

Granny Flats: CDC vs DA – the Pros and Cons of Each

by | Apr 7, 2025 | Granny Flats

CDC vs DA: What’s the Difference When Building a Granny Flat?

If you’re thinking about building a granny flat, there’s a lot to get excited about—from extra space and rental income to adding value to your property. But before you can start building, you’ll need the right approvals in place.

Understanding the difference between a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) and a Development Application (DA) is a key step in the planning process. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right path forward.

What is a CDC?

A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a fast-tracked approval process that combines both planning and construction approval. It’s designed for straightforward projects that meet specific criteria set by the NSW government.

If your site and proposed granny flat meet these requirements, a CDC is usually the quickest and simplest option. Best of all, it can be handled by a private certifier—meaning you don’t need to go through council.

What is a DA?

A Development Application (DA) is a more traditional approval process managed by your local council. It involves a formal assessment of your plans against council guidelines, including things like setbacks, streetscape, and environmental impact.

Even if your proposed design doesn’t meet all guidelines, councils may still grant approval if the overall proposal is considered reasonable—offering more flexibility than a CDC in some cases.

How Much Does a CDC or DA Cost?

CDC costs:
The cost of a CDC varies based on the complexity of your build and the certifier’s fees. On average, you can expect to pay around $2,500 to $3,500 for the application.

DA costs:
Development Application costs can vary widely, typically ranging from $2,000 to $9,000, depending on council fees, consultant reports, and any required adjustments to your plans.

Keep in mind that both paths will also require a Construction Certificate before work begins, which carries its own fees.

How Long Does the Approval Process Take?

CDC timeline:
If your block is straightforward and all required documents (like surveys and drawings) are ready, approval can be obtained in as little as 4 to 8 weeks.

DA timeline:
A DA takes significantly longer—usually 4 to 6 months, depending on your council’s workload. It can take even longer if there are objections or requests for amendments.

Pros and Cons of a CDC

Pros:

  • Faster and simpler than a DA

  • Can be approved by a private certifier

  • Suitable for straightforward sites

  • Can sometimes be lodged before land registration

Cons:

  • Strict requirements with little flexibility

  • No room for interpretation—non-compliant designs won’t be approved

Pros and Cons of a DA

Pros:

  • Councils may approve designs that fall outside CDC guidelines

  • Greater design flexibility in some areas

Cons:

  • Slower processing time (up to six months or more)

  • More complex and often requires more documentation

  • Council response times can vary significantly

So, Which Option is Right for You?

If your site meets the CDC requirements, that’s usually the best path—faster, simpler, and often cheaper. But if your land isn’t eligible for a CDC, don’t be discouraged. A DA might take longer, but it can still get you to the finish line.

At Acrow Granny Flats, we work with both approval pathways and guide you through the process from start to finish. Whether it’s a quick CDC or a more complex DA, our experienced team knows how to navigate the regulations—and get your granny flat built.

Thinking of building a granny flat? Get in touch today and let’s talk about what’s possible on your property

Custom Built L-Shaped Granny Flat in Lake Illawarra

Custom Built L-Shaped Granny Flat in Lake Illawarra

by | Apr 4, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Custom Granny Flats, Granny Flats, South Coast Granny Flats

Case Study: Custom L-Shaped Granny Flat in Lake Illawarra, NSW

Acrow Granny Flats recently completed a stunning custom-built, two-bedroom L-shaped granny flat in Lake Illawarra, showcasing the perfect balance between practicality and modern design. This project exemplifies how thoughtful customisation can create a seamless living experience tailored to the homeowner’s needs.

Why Lake Illawarra is Perfect for a Granny Flat

Nestled between the stunning coastline and the picturesque lake, Lake Illawarra offers a unique blend of relaxed coastal living and modern convenience. This sought-after location provides easy access to beaches, parks, and essential amenities, making it an ideal spot for a granny flat. Whether it’s for additional rental income, multi-generational living, or a private retreat, a well-designed granny flat in Lake Illawarra enhances property value while offering versatile living solutions.

Custom Design: A Home That Flows With You

Every home has its unique flow of movement and energy, and this project was designed to reflect the client’s vision of a practical yet stylish space. The L-shaped design maximises privacy while allowing an open-plan feel between the living areas and bedrooms. At Acrow, we specialise in adapting any design to suit how you want your home to function, ensuring every detail aligns with your lifestyle.

Special Features & Finishes

This Lake Illawarra granny flat stands out with its premium selections and thoughtful inclusions:

  • Security & Comfort: The addition of security doors ensures safety without compromising style, offering peace of mind for the occupants.
  • Window Coverings: Double roller blinds (night & day) provide the perfect balance of privacy and natural light control, allowing flexibility for any time of day.

  • Modern Flooring: Hybrid flooring in a sleek Coastal Blackbutt finish delivers durability with a contemporary touch, perfect for a low-maintenance yet high-end aesthetic.

  • Luxurious Bathroom: The spacious bathroom features a 1500mm double vanity in Polytec Classic White Matt, paired with Brushed Nickel tapware for a timeless look.

  • Kitchen Convenience: A dedicated microwave provision integrates seamlessly into the kitchen, which features Polytec Coastal Oak lower cabinetry and Polytec Classic White Matt upper cabinetry, creating a stylish contrast.

  • External Aesthetics: The home features a Colorbond Shale Grey roof, James Hardie 230mm Hardie Plank in Smooth cladding, and Dulux Powered Rock render, ensuring a sleek and modern exterior.

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The Acrow Difference

With years of experience building across Wollongong, Illawarra and the South Coast, Acrow Granny Flats understands the unique challenges and opportunities of the region. Our team ensures every build meets the highest quality standards while offering a personalised approach that turns a house into a home.

This custom L-shaped granny flat in Lake Illawarra is a testament to the power of thoughtful design, tailored features, and expert craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking to invest, accommodate family, or create a private retreat, Acrow Granny Flats can help bring your vision to life.

Interested in a custom granny flat for your property? Contact Acrow Granny Flats today to explore your options.

Lake Illawarra Granny Flat – Gallery

Enjoy our gallery of this beautiful Granny Flat

Looking to build a granny flat on the South Coast? Contact Acrow Granny Flats to explore our popular Cube design and how it can be customised to suit your needs.

Customised Dual Entrance Cube Granny Flat Built in Mollymook

Customised Dual Entrance Cube Granny Flat Built in Mollymook

by | Mar 31, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Custom Granny Flats, Granny Flats, South Coast Granny Flats

Acrow Granny Flats recently completed a stunning customised Cube granny flat in Mollymook, located on the beautiful South Coast of NSW. This contemporary 2-bedroom granny flat features a spacious open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, offering a modern yet functional design perfect for both hosting guests and everyday living. The Cube design includes two well-sized bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, a shared bathroom and laundry, and plenty of natural light.

A standout feature of this project is the extended Modwood deck, measuring 9m x 3m (27m²), which creates an ideal outdoor entertaining space. The deck is finished with Modwood in the colour Sahara and includes a subfloor screening for added privacy and a clean finish.

Customisations and Special Features

This Cube granny flat was customised to meet the specific needs of the homeowners, Anthony and Mary Flint, who wanted to maximise both privacy and functionality:
✅ Privacy Screening – Aluminium privacy screens in Colorbond Dover White provide seclusion and enhance the modern aesthetic.
✅ Induction Cooktop – The kitchen is fitted with a Fisher & Paykel 60cm induction cooktop (CI604CTB1), offering efficient and responsive cooking.
✅ External Pendant Lights – Two external pendant lights were installed on the porch, adding a warm, welcoming touch to the entrance.
✅ Subfloor Screening – The Modwood deck is neatly finished with a matching subfloor screening in Sahara stain for a polished look.
✅ Front and Side Access – The layout includes both front and side access, improving convenience and flow around the property.

Dual Entrance Granny Flat Mollymook – Gallery

Enjoy our gallery of this beautiful Granny Flat – imagine the outdoor living on that deck!

Why the Cube is So Popular

The Cube is one of Acrow Granny Flats’ most versatile and sought-after designs. Its compact yet spacious layout makes it suitable for a wide range of blocks, even those with challenging site conditions. The flexible floor plan allows for easy customisation, ensuring each build meets the client’s specific lifestyle needs.

Living in Mollymook – Why It’s Perfect for a Granny Flat

Mollymook, situated on the picturesque South Coast of NSW, is known for its pristine beaches, relaxed lifestyle, and vibrant local community. A granny flat in Mollymook offers the perfect balance of coastal living and convenience. Whether used as a guest house, rental opportunity, or a secondary residence for family, a granny flat in this location provides both lifestyle and financial benefits.

Mollymook is also ideal for retirees or those seeking a sea change, with its close proximity to local shops, restaurants, and medical facilities. The Cube’s design enhances this laid-back lifestyle by blending indoor and outdoor living, making the most of Mollymook’s natural beauty.

Design and Colour Selections

The Cube’s contemporary design is complemented by carefully chosen colour and material selections:

  • Roofing, Fascia, and Gutter – Colorbond Shale Grey

  • Cladding – Weathertex Selflok Milwood 300mm in a smooth finish

  • Decking – Modwood 137mm x 23mm in Sahara

  • Windows – Aluminium frames in GA330A Textura White with double glazing

  • External Painting – Dulux Terrace White and Lexicon Quarter

  • Kitchen – Polytec cabinetry in Classic White (Satin Finish) with 20mm Evostone in Monsoon for the benchtop

  • Bathroom and Laundry – Belga Taupe tiles with Magellan Grey grout, and chrome tapware and fittings

Outcome

The completed granny flat in Mollymook showcases Acrow’s expertise in delivering tailored, high-quality secondary dwellings. Anthony and Mary were particularly impressed with the seamless build process, attention to detail, and the thoughtful inclusion of privacy and access solutions. The Cube’s contemporary style and functional design have created a beautiful and practical living space that integrates perfectly with the coastal lifestyle of Mollymook.

Looking to build a granny flat on the South Coast? Contact Acrow Granny Flats to explore our popular Cube design and how it can be customised to suit your needs.

The Gemini – A Stunning 2-Bed 2-Bath Granny Flat Build in Lake Macquarie

The Gemini – A Stunning 2-Bed 2-Bath Granny Flat Build in Lake Macquarie

by | Mar 26, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Lake Macquarie Granny Flats

The Gemini – A Stunning 2-Bed 2-Bath Granny Flat Build in Lake Macquarie

Building a granny flat is not just about adding extra space — it’s about creating a stylish, functional living area that feels like home. At Acrow Granny Flats, we recently completed a stunning Gemini 2-bed 2-bath Granny Flat in Belmont North, Lake Macquarie — and it’s a perfect example of how smart design and high-quality finishes come together to create a modern, comfortable living space.

This Gemini was designed with both privacy and functionality in mind, featuring two bedrooms at opposite ends of the home, a central open-plan living area, and stylish finishes that reflect the client’s unique taste. Let’s take a closer look at the details that make this granny flat stand out.

Smart Design for Comfortable Living

The Gemini’s layout is designed to maximise both comfort and privacy. The two bedrooms and two bathrooms are positioned at opposite ends of the granny flat, creating a sense of separation and privacy — ideal for shared living or hosting guests.

The central living space features a modern L-shaped kitchen that flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas. Large windows and sliding doors flood the space with natural light and provide direct access to a patio, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

Beautiful Colour Selections and Finishes

The thoughtful selection of colours and materials gives this Gemini granny flat a modern yet welcoming feel:

Exterior

✅ Cladding: James Hardie Primeline Chamfer Weatherboard in Taubmans Silver Blaze
✅ Roof, Fascia & Gutter: Colorbond Basalt — a sleek, deep grey that complements the weatherboard perfectly
✅ Windows: Aluminium frames in Pearl White Gloss for a crisp, clean finish
✅ Front Door: Hume Bushfire Resistant BFR4 with translucent glass — finished in Merbau clear stain for warmth

Interior

✅ Walls: Taubmans Silver Pearl throughout (except ensuites), with Taubmans Brilliant White in bathrooms for a fresh, bright feel
✅ Flooring: 12mm Timber Laminate in Valley Oak throughout the living areas and hallways
✅ Bedrooms: Crestview Carpet in Warm Stone — soft and inviting underfoot
✅ Kitchen:

  • Benchtop: Smart Stone Essentials Range in Santorini (20mm)
  • Cabinetry: Laminex White 200 in a natural finish with nickel handles
  • Splashback: Gloss White tiles (300x600mm) laid horizontally
  • Appliances: Haier 600mm Electric Oven, Ceramic Cooktop, and Slide-Out Rangehood

Bathrooms

✅ Floor Tiles: Bellingen Charcoal Matt (600x600mm) for a sophisticated look
✅ Wall Tiles: Gloss White (300x600mm) laid vertically in a stackbond pattern
✅ Fixtures: Pina Handshower and Basin Mixer in chrome
✅ Vanity: Duraplex 600mm with a white china top and frameless mirrored shaving cabinet
✅ Shower: Semi-frameless with a chrome frame and modern brass floor grate

Laundry

✅ Tub: Everhard 30L Mini Laundry Unit
✅ Tapware: Phoenix Ivy MKII Sink Mixer
✅ Splashback: Gloss White tiles to match the kitchen

Lets Take a Look – 2-Bed 2-Bath Granny Flat Gallery

A Private Retreat with Modern Comfort

The Gemini’s clever layout and modern finishes make it the perfect retreat for homeowners seeking extra space, a rental opportunity, or multi-generational living. The separation of the two bedrooms enhances privacy, making it ideal for both short-term stays and long-term tenants.

The open-plan kitchen and living area create a welcoming hub for daily life, while the seamless connection to the outdoor patio provides an inviting spot for entertaining or relaxing.

Why the Gemini Is Perfect for Lake Macquarie Living

Building a 2-bed 2-bath granny flat in Lake Macquarie is a smart investment. The Gemini’s functional design and high-quality finishes provide long-term value, whether you’re creating space for family, a private guest retreat, or a rental opportunity.

At Acrow Granny Flats, we handle the entire process — from design and approvals to construction and final handover — ensuring a stress-free building experience.

Can I fill in a swimming pool and build a Granny Flat?

Can I fill in a swimming pool and build a Granny Flat?

by | Mar 24, 2025 | Granny Flats

With careful and correct planning you can turn an unwanted pool space into the perfect place for a Granny Flat

Pools undoubtedly offer a refreshing escape during scorching summers, becoming a hub of relaxation and fun. However, their allure comes with responsibilities. Pool maintenance can be demanding, involving regular cleaning, chemical treatments, and equipment upkeep. Moreover, even well-maintained pools have a limited lifespan due to wear and tear. If you find that you’re no longer making the most of your pool and the upkeep has become burdensome, repurposing the pool area by having it professionally filled in could open up exciting possibilities. The land once occupied by the pool can be transformed into a valuable space for a secondary dwelling, like a Granny Flat. This approach maximises your property’s potential, creating new living space while sidestepping the ongoing costs and maintenance of an underutilised or aging pool.

The importance of correct pool site removal for a Granny Flat

The idea of constructing a granny flat over a swimming pool site might seem intriguing, but it’s not as simple as placing a new structure over the existing pool. The first and most crucial step is the complete removal of the swimming pool itself. Whether your pool is made of concrete or fiberglass, it’s imperative to clear the area of any remnants of the old pool. Why is this step so vital?

Foundations are the backbone of any building, and they must be built on stable ground to ensure the structural integrity of the entire construction. When you’re building a granny flat over a former pool area, the ground needs to be prepared thoroughly. If there are any remnants of the old pool, such as concrete debris or discarded building materials, these can cause instability in the ground, leading to potential issues with your new building’s foundation.

Introducing VENM: Virgin Excavated Natural Material

Imagine starting the construction process and realising that your foundation is compromised due to hidden debris from an old pool. Not only would this be a major setback, but it could also lead to significant delays and expenses. Bits of concrete, rusty rebar, and other building materials can cause havoc beneath the surface. Additionally, the presence of asbestos, a hazardous material commonly used in older construction, can pose health risks if disturbed during construction. To avoid these issues, a thorough and professional removal of all debris is paramount.

The process of building over a former swimming pool site involves more than just clearing the area. It requires proper preparation of the ground to ensure stability and safety. After removing all debris, the space needs to be filled with suitable material known as Virgin Excavated Natural Material (VENM). This term holds great significance and is recognised by environmental authorities across different states.

VENM definition:

VENM is defined as virgin excavated natural material (e.g. clay, gravel, sand, soil and rock) that is not mixed with any other waste and that: 

(a) has been excavated from areas that are not contaminated2, as a result of industrial, commercial, mining or agricultural activities, with manufactured chemicals, that does not contain sulphidic ores or soils and does not contain naturally elevated levels of certain elements or compounds, or

(b) consists of excavated natural materials that meet such criteria as may be approved by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) 3.

The following is not classified as VENM:

  • excavated material which has been stockpiled, reused or processed in any way or has been sourced from a site where contamination is present or has been previously identified.
  • fill material, engineered or manufactured topsoil, material which has been impacted by anthropogenic inclusions (for example asphalt, road base and building rubble) or vegetation waste.

Do you need a complying development certificate (CDC) or development application (DA) to fill in a pool?

A pool is not just a recreational feature; it’s also a legislated construct that requires careful adherence to regulations. Whether you’re planning to build or remove a swimming pool, obtaining the necessary permissions and approvals from the local council is essential. Furthermore, regardless of whether the pool is filled with water or not, it must be surrounded by a compliant fence until it is filled. Failing to maintain an appropriate pool enclosure can result in fines or, even worse, an accident, so definitely leave the fence.

If you are filling in the pool well before you start your construction venture, you might obtain a CDC. Getting a CDC for filling in a pool is quite easy to do, simply search local certifiers who do this, they will make the required lodgement with council to notify them. Your chosen contractor for filling in the pool will also need to see a copy of the CDC before they can start the works. Costs may vary between contractors but should be in the ballpark of $500.

If your pool is still in place when you have your initial consultation with Acrow, we will do all the council work for you. That is, when lodging a DA for your new structure, we would include the removal of the pool in the DA.

Know what services are connected, and safely have disconnected

Is your pool connected to electricity – for example your pool pump, or solar? or is there gas or any other services nearby or connected to the area that will require demolition? Consider the existing services to the pool such as power and gas that may be within the building foot print, and have these safely mapped and disconnected by a qualified expert.

Pool filled in and compacted for stability

Just filling the pool area with VENM isn’t sufficient. The material also needs to be properly compacted. Compaction ensures that the ground is stable and won’t shift or settle under the weight of the new Granny Flat. A stable foundation is the key to preventing future problems such as structural damage, cracks, and uneven settling.

Once the process of repurposing a pool area for a new structure begins, it’s important to anticipate a potential timeline of up to two weeks or more. Keep in mind that work cannot proceed on wet ground to ensure a solid foundation. In the case of a fiberglass pool, the procedure involves stripping the pool bottom first to preserve the shape of the pool, the filling process commences at one end, typically from the bottom, while carefully compacting the fill material as it’s added. The attention to detail during this process is vital to create a solid foundation for the forthcoming Dwelling.

 

Provide all the detail you can to your builder

When you’re considering building a Granny Flat over a swimming pool site, it’s crucial to communicate this plan (or that the site formerly had a pool on it) from the very beginning of your building process. Why? Because proper soil testing must be conducted to determine the suitability of the ground for construction. Soil testing evaluates factors such as soil composition, density, and load-bearing capacity.

In all cases, an Engineer will also ask us to extend our footings past the existing base of the pool. Our foundations will be designed by an engineer to account for the changes and disturbances in the ground. All information you can give helps engineers and builders conduct the appropriate testing and design the appropriate foundation for your Granny Flat.

More Expert Building content from the Acrow Construction team:

  • What is a raft slab?
  • When are retaining walls required?
  • What are screw piers?

 

Acrow are committed to making your building project stress free and simple. You can be assured that we will be aiming to complete your project with the best outcome for your long term use of the home. Building a home is a journey we are privileged to go on with our clients, and Acrow are committed to being completely transparent and delivering the highest standards of communication along the way.

We work with expert engineers who help us deliver your building plans to the most up to date local council regulations. At every step of the way we are working with the engineers guidelines to validate expected building conditions. When there are surprises, (which there mostly aren’t) you can be assured that your building supervisor has the expert knowledge to guide the decisions you make next – and the team to back it up.