by Granny Flat Builder | Nov 26, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flat with Garage, Granny Flats, Newcastle Granny Flats, The Zenith, Two Bed Granny Flats
Granny Flat with Carport in Umina: A Smart Investment for Long-Term Rental Returns
When Vanessa and Hamish began planning improvements for their investment property in Umina, they were clear on one thing: parking matters. In a suburb where rental demand is strong and tenants value practical inclusions, the ability to offer a dedicated carport would position their new granny flat as a premium rental option.
They chose The Dock, modified to suit both the shape of the block and their investment strategy, and partnered with the Acrow team to deliver a high-amenity granny flat with generous outdoor living, a sleek skillion roofline, and a secure carport that adds both value and tenant appeal.
Meeting the Brief: Practical, Modern, Rental-Focused
Umina is a beachside suburb known for its strong rental yields and steady demand from singles, couples, downsizers, and essential workers. Vanessa and Hamish knew that adding a secondary dwelling was the right move, but they also understood the difference between just adding a granny flat and adding one that attracts higher-quality tenants for longer periods.
Parking was a priority. Outdoor living mattered too. And the home needed to feel modern, bright, and welcoming.
Working under a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), Acrow delivered a faster approval pathway—meaning the investors could move from concept to construction without council delays.
A Design Tailored to the Block, and to Tenant Needs
The modified version of The Dock was an immediate match for the block. Compact yet spacious, and with clever opportunities for expansion, it allowed several additions to maximise the liveability of the granny flat:
Key structural inclusions within the quote:
- Extended front porch and decking, creating a welcoming entry
- Addition of an alfresco deck—ideal for the Umina lifestyle
- Cladding applied to the rear wall and dwarf wall to deck
- Carport with Colorbond roofing providing valuable covered parking
- Breakfast bar added to the kitchen for extra functionality
- A glass sliding door opening to the deck
- Skillion roof with raked ceiling to the living area
- Hi-lite windows to maximise natural light and coastal airflow
These enhancements created a light-filled interior and strong connection to outdoor living; features that consistently appeal to tenants on the Central Coast.
Interior Selections That Lift the Entire Space
During colour and product selections, Vanessa and Hamish opted for several upgrades to improve the tenant experience and future-proof the investment:
- Upgraded entrance door for stronger street appeal
- Stylish kitchen splashback
- Contemporary cabinetry handles
- PC item upgrades
- Added a dishwasher
- Added a shower niche for storage
- Microwave provision to free up bench space
These small but impactful upgrades ensure the granny flat feels more like a modern home than a basic secondary dwelling; another important differentiator in the Umina rental market.
On-Site Additions: Finishing Touches That Add Value
Once construction was underway, the clients added a concrete driveway, integrating the carport seamlessly into the overall layout. The combination of driveway + carport makes day-to-day access effortless, increases property value, and elevates tenant appeal.
The finished result is a tidy, functional, coastal-influenced granny flat with strong rental potential – exactly what savvy investors in Umina look for.
Granny Flat with Carport in Umina Photo Gallery
Why a Granny Flat with Carport Works So Well in Umina
Umina’s popularity continues to rise with renters who value:
- quick access to beaches
- proximity to Woy Woy station
- quality schooling options
- local shopping and dining
- close connection to major employment hubs
And while granny flats already perform exceptionally well in this region, adding a carport or dedicated parking pushes the property further into the “high-demand” category.
Tenants are willing to pay more for secure parking, weather protection, and clear access, particularly in suburbs like Umina where many older homes lack modern parking infrastructure.
If you’re considering a similar project, designs such as The Dock, The Prime, The Zenith, and The Summit can all be adapted to include a carport, garage, or driveway depending on the shape of your block.
Explore our full granny flat design range to see which layout suits your property.
Built by Local Experts Who Understand the Central Coast
From the initial inspection to the handover, our team worked closely with Vanessa and Hamish to deliver a granny flat that met their investment goals and maximised every square metre of the site.
At Acrow Granny Flats, we’ve completed hundreds of secondary dwellings across the Central Coast, each built to meet local requirements, flood considerations, market rental expectations, and the unique features of individual blocks.
If you’re planning a granny flat in Umina, Ettalong, Woy Woy, or anywhere across the Central Coast, our team can help you design a practical, profitable solution, whether you need a carport, garage, or simple driveway access.
View more completed projects or book your free site assessment to get started. Explore Acrow Granny Flat designs to see how your vision can come to life.
by Granny Flat Builder | Nov 12, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flat with Garage, Granny Flats, Newcastle Granny Flats, The Zenith, Two Bed Granny Flats
Granny Flat with Driveway for Zora & Julie-Ann: Owner-Occupied Comfort in Mayfield, Newcastle
When Zora and Julie-Ann decided to build a granny flat on their property, their goal was clear: they wanted a modern, functional space that would provide comfortable, independent living while integrating seamlessly with their existing home.
They chose The Zenith design—an L-shaped layout perfectly suited to accommodate a concrete driveway and maximise the use of their block. The project was submitted as a Development Application (DA), ensuring all local council requirements were met, including allowances for future infrastructure such as an EV charging station, a feature that is becoming increasingly common.
Personalising the Space
Zora and Julie-Ann wanted a home that felt luxurious and functional. During the colour and fixture selection process, they made several thoughtful upgrades:
- Tiling to ceiling height in the bathroom for a luxe feel
- Upgraded shower head, shower mixer, toilet, and vanity
- New kitchen sink for convenience
- Venetian blinds throughout instead of standard roller blinds
- Additional power points to enhance functionality
These touches created a comfortable, modern home that caters to the family’s needs while maintaining a high-quality finish.
Construction Solutions for Granny Flat with Driveway
The L-shaped Zenith design allowed for seamless integration of a concrete driveway, providing secure access to the granny flat without compromising the layout or outdoor space. During construction, Acrow also accommodated:
- Subfloor screening for pest protection
- Additional connections for water, stormwater, and electrical
- Planning for an EV charging station, meeting the DA requirements
The granny flat was built with timber frame and truss construction, supported by bearers and joists (B&J), ensuring a solid, durable build. Every detail was carefully managed to deliver a home that is practical, stylish, and compliant with council requirements.
Granny Flat with Driveway Photo Gallery
Why a Granny Flat Works for Mayfield Homeowners
In Mayfield, Newcastle, and across the wider region, granny flats provide homeowners with versatile solutions:
- Independent living for adult children or elderly family members
- Flexible space for home offices or guest accommodation
- Potential rental income for investment purposes
- Room for modern infrastructure such as EV charging
- Ability to add practical features like driveways, carports, or decks without compromising the main home
The Zenith design in particular is ideal for blocks where a driveway or additional outdoor space is desired, offering a layout that naturally accommodates L-shaped external areas.
Acrow’s Expertise: Delivering Functional, Stylish Granny Flats Across NSW
Zora and Julie-Ann’s project highlights Acrow Granny Flats’ strengths:
- Guidance through DA and CDC approvals, including allowances for emerging requirements like EV charging stations
- Flexible designs, including The Zenith, The Prime, and The Summit, that suit any block or lifestyle need
- Integration of driveways, carports, and decks for functional, appealing layouts
- Local knowledge of council regulations and site-specific requirements
- Hundreds of completed granny flats across NSW, from the Central Coast to Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and beyond
Zora and Julie-Ann’s story shows that a thoughtfully designed granny flat with a driveway can provide both independence and convenience. Whether you’re in Mayfield, Newcastle, or elsewhere in the region, Acrow can help you create a modern, functional granny flat tailored to your family’s lifestyle.
Explore Acrow Granny Flat designs to see how your vision can come to life.
by Granny Flat Builder | Aug 2, 2025 | Newcastle Granny Flats
What’s are the Newcastle Council Granny Flat Regulations?
Newcastle Council defines a secondary dwelling (commonly called a granny flat) as a self‑contained living unit on the same lot as an existing principal dwelling. It can be internal, attached or detached, but must remain on the same land parcel and cannot be subdivided. No separate access or services are required separately from the primary dwelling.
Planning Framework: Housing SEPP & Code SEPP
Housing SEPP (State Environmental Planning Policy – Housing 2021)
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The Housing SEPP has replaced the Affordable Rental Housing SEPP 2009.
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It allows secondary dwellings to be permissible in standard residential zones (R1–R5, and sometimes other zones under certain LEPs).
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Under Housing SEPP, detached granny flats must meet criteria such as:
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Minimum lot size 450 m²
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Maximum size 60 m² (or as specified in LEP)
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Only one secondary dwelling per site
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Must be self-contained (kitchen, bathroom, laundry)
Exempt & Complying Development Code SEPP (Code SEPP)
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Complying Developments are fast‑tracked approvals under State law, available when all SEPP and Code standards are satisfied.
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For granny flats, this means a single Complying Development Certificate (CDC) may be issued quickly (often within 10 days and for Acrow Granny Flats, typically within 3 weeks) if the proposal complies.
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The primary dwelling must also comply with the Code SEPP standards.
CDC vs Development Application (DA) under Newcastle Council
Complying Development Certificates (CDC)
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A CDC can be issued by Newcastle Council or an accredited certifier, via the NSW Planning Portal.
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Submissions vary based on site conditions: flood‑prone, bushfire area, potential land contamination or proximity to infrastructure.
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Applicants must include documentation like BASIX, flood or bushfire certificates, and possibly arborist reports.
Development Application (DA)
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Where a site doesn’t meet CDC criteria—e.g. lot < 450 m², bushfire prone, mine‑subsidence zone, heritage/protected site—an DA must be lodged with Newcastle City Council.
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In Newcastle, “Local Development” includes granny flat DAs. Some larger or controversial proposals may go to the Hunter & Central Coast Regional Planning Panel but this is rare for a Granny Flat.
- Acrow Granny Flats find that typical DA submission time with Newcastle City Council varies from 3-6 months. We have good relationships with the council and meet with them once a week about our projects to help move them along
Environmental Constraints & Special Site Conditions
Bushfire
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If the property is in a bushfire‑prone area, SEPP compliance is not permitted via CDC; a DA may be required.
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Construction must meet AS3959‑2018 standards and Planning for Bush Fire Protection guidelines. BAL level cannot exceed 29.
Flood‑Prone Land
Acid Sulfate Soils, Contamination & Mine Subsidence
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Sites with known acid sulfate soils or mine‑subsidence risk need specific technical studies.
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Newcastle compliance checklists require Hunter Water notices, contaminated land disclosures, or geotechnical reports before CDC or DA approval.
Tree Removal/Heritage & Local Environment Plan Controls
Newcastle Council Submission & Assessment Requirements
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CDC applications must follow Newcastle’s checklist including plans, engineering, BASIX, reports (flood, bushfire, arborist, acid sulfate, land contamination).
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DA applications trigger Council assessment, exhibition to neighbours, and possible referral to the regional planning panel if needed.
| Pathway |
Council Submission Made To |
When Used |
| Complying Development |
CDC via certified certifier or Newcastle Council |
Typical for sites ≥450 m², flat, non‑flood/non‑bushfire, no heritage/tree constraints |
| Development Application |
DA to Newcastle City Council |
Required when site fails CDC rules (small lot, bushfire, flood, land contamination, heritage) |
Newcastle Council References & Links
We’ve summarised everything you need to thing about in this blog. To review official local requirements and apply:
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Newcastle City Council secondary dwelling guide: definitions, zoning and approvals – read here
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Newcastle Council Complying Development application guidance: includes checklist for flood, bushfire, contamination etc – read here
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Newcastle development overview & DA information: process and forms for local development applications – read here
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Newcastle City Council CDC Checklist – download here
- NSW Government Planning Rules for Granny Flats – read here
Building a granny flat in Newcastle means navigating both state regulations (Housing SEPP & Code SEPP) and local conditions under Newcastle City Council. Many sites qualify for a fast CDC approval when conditions are straightforward—but sites impacted by flood, bushfire, acid sulfate soils, mine subsidence, or heritage constraints typically require a full DA. With careful documentation and early technical assessment, clients often move through approvals efficiently.
Acrow Granny Flats Takes Care of Newcastle Council Granny Flat Regulations
Navigating granny flat regulations in Newcastle can be complex—especially when your site involves flood zones, bushfire risk, or council-specific requirements. At Acrow, we’ve delivered hundreds of successful granny flat projects across the Newcastle region. Our local team understands the nuances of CDC and DA pathways, and we know exactly what’s required for fast, compliant approvals. Whether you’re building in Adamstown, Shortland or Stockton, we handle the paperwork, technical reports, and council coordination—so you can focus on the bigger picture. Start with a FREE SITE VISIT or we can respect your time with a BALLPARK ESTIMATE, and let us guide you through what’s possible on your block.
by Granny Flat Builder | Jun 20, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Newcastle Granny Flats
In high-demand rental areas like Shortland, adding a secondary dwelling to your property isn’t just practical—it’s profitable. This recently completed two-bedroom granny flat was built for investment purposes and now generates an estimated $27,000 in annual rental income, based on a current median rent of $525 per week (source: domain.com.au, June 2025).
The Design: The Dock – Modified for Market Appeal
The base design is The Dock, one of Acrow’s most popular two-bedroom granny flat layouts. It’s efficient, attractive, and versatile—perfect for rental use. For this project, a few key upgrades were made to enhance appeal and functionality:
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Raked ceiling with square-set cornice to the living, kitchen and dining areas
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Island bench in place of the standard L-shaped kitchen for improved flow
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Sliding door off the dining area, adding natural light and outdoor connection
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Niche to shower, dishwasher provision, and an upgraded toilet
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Attached configuration to suit block layout and maximise yard space
The rest of the finishes were kept to Acrow’s standard inclusions—ensuring the project stayed on budget while still delivering a high-quality, low-maintenance home.
Built Fast Under CDC with Steel Frame Construction
Approved via Complying Development Certificate (CDC), this project moved quickly through approvals and construction. The build commenced on 22 January 2025 and reached Practical Completion by 17 April 2025—just 12 weeks on-site.
The structure was built on a slab-on-ground (SOG) using a steel frame and truss system, making it ideal for long-term durability and investor peace of mind.
Compliant with BAL 12.5 Bushfire Regulations
The dwelling meets BAL 12.5 requirements with features that include:
These additions provide protection for tenants and ensure long-term compliance in bushfire-prone regions.
Rental Returns: $525 Per Week in Passive Income
With Newcastle’s ongoing rental demand and land values rising, granny flats like this are a smart move for owners looking to boost yield.
In Shortland, two-bedroom homes are currently leasing for a median of $525 per week, equating to an estimated $27,300 per year in rental income.
That kind of return makes building a granny flat a compelling strategy for:
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Generating passive income
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Increasing the value of your property
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Leveraging underutilised land
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Future-proofing your investment
Minimal Extras, Strong ROI
By sticking to standard inclusions where possible, and choosing value-focused upgrades, this investor was able to build an attractive rental property without overspending. It’s a strong example of how Acrow helps clients build for return—not just resale.
Granny Flat Investment Newcastle Project Gallery
Want to Add $27K a Year to Your Investment Property?
A two-bedroom granny flat can generate serious rental income in the right area—and Acrow can help you get there. From concept and approval to construction and handover, we handle the details so you can focus on the return.
Book a free site inspection today to find out what’s possible on your block—anywhere in NSW or the ACT.
Find out what’s possible on your block. We build investment-ready granny flats across NSW and the ACT.
by Granny Flat Builder | Apr 23, 2024 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Newcastle Granny Flats, The Pavillion
Newcastle Granny Flat Case Study
This granny flat completed in Stockton in 2023 was customised by the client from The Pavillion, one of Acrow’s stylish and modern two bedroom granny flat designs. This style of granny flat suited our client due to the narrow space available on his block, a perfect design for yards with limited space. This clever design maximises privacy for the new occupants by placing the bedrooms at opposite ends, with a spacious open plan living, dining and kitchen area in between. This space creates endless options for cooking, entertaining and relaxing. Bedrooms both include built-in robes.
The client loved watching the granny flat come to life and had only good things to say about the project manger and builders once the project once complete. Our client was delighted with all our basic inclusions, noting that nothing needed upgrading, and kept his budget intact. When it came to colour selections, we were going for a ‘boat shed vibe’. While clients can come into the head office or granny flat displays to do colour selections in person, this client chose to complete them simply via email. The requested ‘vibe’ was achieved, again with no upgrades required, including the showpiece blue cladding.
Even with a flood affected site there were no difficulties with construction and this beautiful Stockton granny flat was completed within 12 weeks.
Acrow Newcastle Granny Flat Review
Here is the five star feedback this client left on Google for our work on this Newcastle granny flat:
“After sifting through nearly 20 granny flat builders, Acrow was my only logical choice. For pricing, service and quality of finished product they are 10/10. From the salesman Mick, Dario my builder, all the support staff in Hd office, right down to all the sub-contractors, made this build a really great experience, add to that a 12 week build time, and i certainly wont be going anywhere else for the next one. Well done Acrow”
A thoughtful design and an emphasis on privacy and character, this granny flat is a perfect investment or home for the family.
Stockton Granny Flat Project Gallery
Local Granny Flat Builder Newcastle
Stockton is a suburb of Newcastle and is located 600m from its central business district. Stockton is a peninsula surrounded by the Hunter River and the Pacific Ocean. Its proximity to Newcastle CBD makes it an ideal place to make property investments such as the addition of a granny flat. With beaches, rivers, and recreational areas all within easy access, its also a great place to have family, using a granny flat as a way to provide space for multi-generational families.
For over two decades, Acrow has been the trusted name in crafting exceptional granny flats in Newcastle. As a family-run business, we take pride in our extensive experience and dedication to delivering high-quality living spaces tailored to your needs.
Acrow offer a diverse range of stylish granny flat designs and floor plans to suit every taste and requirement. From custom designs tailored to your specific needs to inclusive packages that exceed expectations, we’re committed to bringing your vision to life. Plus, with our price beat guarantee and unwavering support for property investors throughout the Newcastle region, you can trust us to deliver results that exceed your expectations.
Whether you’re an investor seeking to maximise returns, a parent looking to accommodate a growing family, or a retiree planning for the future, Acrow Granny Flats is here to make your granny flat project a reality.
Download the Granny Flat Design Collection for Newcastle
Download the granny flat design collection
by Devesh Malhotra | Apr 18, 2024 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Lake Macquarie Granny Flats, Newcastle Granny Flats, The Pavillion
Newcastle Granny Flat Case Study
This recently completed Granny Flat in Edgeworth, offers privacy and comfort and was designed to be well suited for positioning on the block. The granny flat features two bedrooms, one of which includes built-in robes for added convenience. The strategic layout maximises privacy by situating the bedrooms at opposite ends of the home. An expansive open-plan living area serves as a place for relaxation and entertainment, boasting ample space for cooking and entertaining. The inclusion of bespoke elements such as the custom timber porch and a 1.2-meter breakfast bar elevates the aesthetic appeal and personalised touch.
Our client chose to adapt The Pavillion, a classic two bedroom granny flat design. Building this granny flat for his two eldest children to give them their own space, he was very involved in the design and colours process. The client personalised the granny flat floor plans slightly to extend the deck and add a breakfast bar in the kitchen. He upgraded his selections to include tiling to ceiling height in the bathroom, a niche in the shower, gas cooktop & hot water system, and supplied his own kitchen sink. The block didn’t present any challenges, Acrow did some additional sewer works but otherwise the job was straight forward and was completed ahead of schedule.
The long rectangle shape of the chosen granny flat was carefully considered to optimise space while maintaining a distinct sense of separation from the main home. Each dwelling enjoys its own generous yard space, fostering a sense of ownership and allowing each home to personalise their outdoor living areas. The position adds the potential for future fencing to further enhance privacy.
Acrow Granny Flat Review
Here is the five star feedback this client left on google for our work on this Newcastle granny flat:
I did heaps of research on all of the Granny Flat builders in my locality prior to finally settling on Acrow to build my new granny flat to give my 2 eldest children their own space. To say that I am totally happy with the choice of Acrow as a builder is a gross understatement, the entire package from price to quality of finishes is first rate.
Everything from the initial enquiry with Mick, the design phase with Sam, through colour selection with Crystal and finally to the construction phase with the project manager Dario, this was the easily the smoothest building project I have ever undertaken. Additionally, Dario was one of the most accommodating and easy to deal with people that I have ever encountered on a building site, nothing was to difficult for him and he always kept me informed of any changes to the schedule, (which was completed 2 weeks ahead of time by the way) and that makes me very happy.
I also want to say a big shout out to all the tradies and subcontractors Acrow employed on the job. I wish to thank all of these amazing people and congratulate Acrow on what I consider truly superior service. Such dedication to customer relations is rarely experience in this day and the entire company as an organization can justifiably be proud of their achievements.
Well done to all and my sincerest Thank You.
Peter.
With its thoughtful design, tailored amenities, and emphasis on privacy and individuality, this granny flat is a perfect investment or home for the family.
Granny Flat Project Gallery
Local Granny Flat Builder Newcastle
Edgeworth, located 18 kilometres west of Newcastle’s vibrant central business district, presents an ideal canvas for the addition of backyard granny flats. The abundance of space and the ambiance of Lake Macquarie contribute to the area’s appeal, making it a perfect destination for those seeking multi-generational living with space, or solid investment opportunities.
For over two decades, Acrow has been the trusted name in crafting exceptional granny flats in Newcastle. As a family-run business, we take pride in our extensive experience and dedication to delivering high-quality living spaces tailored to your needs.
Acrow offer a diverse range of stylish granny flat designs and floor plans to suit every taste and requirement. From custom designs tailored to your specific needs to inclusive packages that exceed expectations, we’re committed to bringing your vision to life. Plus, with our price beat guarantee and unwavering support for property investors throughout the Newcastle region, you can trust us to deliver results that exceed your expectations.
Whether you’re an investor seeking to maximise returns, a parent looking to accommodate a growing family, or a retiree planning for the future, Acrow Granny Flats is here to make your granny flat project a reality.
Download the granny flat design collection
