Knock Down Rebuilds With The Markon Group

If you love your neighbourhood but dislike  your home consider a Knock Down & Rebuild.

Knock Down & Rebuild:

Building Your New Dream Home with The Markon Group

If you love your neighborhood but not your outdated house, a knock down & rebuild could be the perfect solution. This approach involves demolishing your old home and building a brand-new one in its place – allowing you to stay in the community you cherish while enjoying a modern home tailored to your needs. The Markon Group, a trusted family builder serving Brisbane, Ipswich, the Gold Coast and surrounding areas, specializes in knock down and rebuild projects on any block. In this article, we’ll explain how The Markon Group does it, the process from start to finish, what you can expect from us, and answer frequently asked questions in a friendly, down-to-earth way.

What is a Knock Down & Rebuild?

In Australian home building, knock down & rebuild (often abbreviated as KDR) means tearing down an existing house and using the same land to construct a new home. In other words, rather than renovating or moving elsewhere, you start fresh on your current block. The old structure is safely demolished, the site is cleared, and then a brand-new, custom-designed house is built right where the old one stood This lets you keep your location and land while upgrading to a home that suits your lifestyle better.

Many homeowners choose knock down rebuilds when they’ve outgrown their home or the building is too old and impractical. Instead of trying to retrofit an aging house, knocking it down gives you a blank canvas to design a modern home from scratch. You won’t be constrained by the old floorplan or costly structural surprises during renovation. Essentially, you get all the benefits of a new home without changing your address.

Why Choose Knock Down & Rebuild?

Staying in the Neighborhood You Love: The biggest advantage is that you don’t have to leave your beloved neighborhood. You can keep the same friendly neighbors, community amenities, schools, and convenient location that you already enjoy. It’s “transforming your home without changing your address,” as as we say If your current block has great views, established gardens, or a prime position, a knock down rebuild lets you retain those while upgrading the house itself.

A Custom Dream Home: With a knock down rebuild, you have complete freedom to design a home that perfectly fits your family’s needs and tastes. Love open-plan living, a big kitchen, or indoor-outdoor flow? Starting fresh makes it easy to incorporate modern layouts, energy-efficient materials, and personalized features that older homes lack. You’re not constrained by the old structure – you can work with Markon’s design team to create everything from scratch exactly as you want it.

Cost Advantages: Surprisingly, rebuilding can often be more cost-effective than extending or renovating an old house. Major renovations commonly run into unforeseen problems (like hidden structural issues or asbestos) that drive up costs unpredictably. By contrast, building new on a cleared site avoids many of those surprises. Additionally, choosing a knock down rebuild can save you tens of thousands of dollars in extra costs you’d face if you moved to a different house. For example, when you rebuild on your own land you avoid paying stamp duty on a new property purchase. Stamp duty on buying an established home in Queensland could easily be $15,000–$20,000 or more – money you don’t have to spend when you simply rebuild on the land you already own. You also skip real estate agent commissions and marketing fees from selling your current home, which could be another $15,000+ saved. In short, a knock down rebuild lets you invest your budget into your new home instead of taxes and transaction costs helping you save on “moving costs, stamp duty and agent fees” while staying in the area you love.

No Need to Compromise on Location: In cities like Brisbane and across South East Queensland, vacant land in prime areas is scarce. If you’ve got the ideal block – good size, great street, convenient location – but an old house that doesn’t meet your needs, rebuilding is an ideal solution. You don’t have to go house-hunting in less desirable areas just to get a better home. Knock down the old place and build a new one right where you are. You’ll retain the land value and likely increase your property’s worth with a brand-new build.

Modern Efficiency and Comfort: New homes are built to current standards and come with today’s technology and insulation, meaning they’re typically more energy-efficient and require less maintenance than aging homes. By rebuilding, you can integrate smart home features, solar panels, better insulation, and other sustainable design elements from the get-go. This translates to lower running costs (power bills, water usage) and a more comfortable living environment long-term. Rather than trying to retrofit an old Queenslander or mid-century home to be energy efficient, it can be more effective to rebuild with all-new materials and meet modern building codes.

Avoiding Renovation Pitfalls: Anyone who’s done a big renovation knows it can be stressful, slow, and often more expensive than planned. You might start knocking down walls only to discover plumbing and wiring problems or structural issues that need fixing. Renovations also mean living in a construction zone or moving out temporarily. In contrast, a knock down rebuild gives you a fresh start – no unexpected structural surprises, and you get exactly what you want in the design. It can actually be simpler than a complex reno that tries to blend old and new.

Financially Wise: In many cases, the total project cost of knocking down and rebuilding is comparable to (or even less than) buying a different house of similar size and quality when you factor in all the “hidden” costs of moving. You’re essentially recycling your land value to create a better asset. Plus, if your block is large enough to consider subdivision or adding a granny flat in the rebuild, you could unlock extra value or income from your property.

And unlike a new speculative purchase, you’re investing in a tailor-made home you’ll truly enjoy living in.

An excavator demolishes an old house to make way for a new custom home. Knocking down the existing structure is the first major step in a rebuild project, clearing the way for construction.

Why Build with The Markon Group?

Choosing the right builder is critical for a successful knock down rebuild. Here’s what you can expect from The Markon Group and what makes us different:

• Local Expertise & Any Block, Any Location: The Markon Group has decades of experience building homes across South-East Queensland. Whether your property is in Brisbane, Ipswich, or the Gold Coast, our team understands the local council regulations and site conditions. We can undertake knockdown rebuilds on any residential block – from flat suburban lots to sloping or narrow sites – and design the new home to maximise your block’s potential. (Even challenging blocks with steep slopes or odd shapes are welcome – we’ll create a solution that fits your land and lifestyle.)

• Personalized Design Process: We don’t just push standard catalog plans. Our approach starts with you – your family, routines, and vision for your home. Markon’s owner and director, Mark Uzzell, will sit down with you to discuss how you live and what you need in a home, before any designs are drawn. Whether you want a sprawling single-story layout for entertaining or a two-story design to capture views, we tailor the plan to your block and budget. The result is a one-of-a-kind home that reflects your personality, not a cookie-cutter design. You’ll see the difference in the details and functionality when your new home is complete.

• Quality Construction & Materials: At The Markon Group, we build every home as if it were our own. That means using high-quality, durable materials suited for Queensland’s climate. For example, we often use BlueScope steel framing for superior strength and termite resistance, and COLORBOND® roofing for longevity and thermal performance in the hot QLD sun. We choose low-maintenance claddings, proper insulation, smart glazing and shading to ensure your new home stays comfortable and efficient for years. Our craftsmanship is second to none – from solid foundations to the final finishes – delivering a home that’s built to last. We don’t take shortcuts, and we conduct thorough quality checks at every stage of construction

• Transparent, Honest Service: People choose The Markon Group because our process is transparent and human. Building a new home can feel daunting, so we make sure you’re informed and comfortable at each step. We provide honest conversations about costs and feasibility right from the start. All inclusions are clearly detailed and we give realistic allowances for any optional upgrades – no smoke and mirrors pricing. When we present your quote or contract, it’s black-and-white with no hidden extras, so you can confidently take it to the bank for financing approval if needed. This transparency extends through the build: you’ll know what’s happening on your project each week, and we’re always available to answer questions. (Our team is down-to-earth and approachable – no question is too silly!)

• Seamless Project Management: A knockdown rebuild has a lot of moving parts, but with Markon you won’t have to juggle them. We handle everything from start to finish: initial site assessment, design, engineering, obtaining council approvals, organizing demolition, construction, and final approvals. Our project team coordinates all the trades and scheduling, so you can sit back and watch your new home take shape without the stress. We even assist with things like disconnecting services (power, water, etc.) before demolition and connecting new services for your build. Markon’s goal is to make the process as smooth as possible for you

• Communication & Support: We pride ourselves on keeping our clients in the loop. From the first sketch to the final handover, you’ll know where things are at. We encourage regular site meetings at key milestones and will happily walk you through the home as it’s being built. Many of our clients love the personal weekly updates – we often call or message with a summary of progress, so even if you’re not visiting the site, you’ll hear what was completed this week and what’s coming up next. This first-class communication and our friendly, family-oriented culture mean you’ll never feel left in the dark. Building a home is a team effort, and we consider you part of the team.

• Trust & Track Record: The Markon Group is QBCC-licensed and fully insured for your peace of mind. Our director, Mark, has a hands-on background and has earned a reputation across South-East Queensland for delivering beautifully crafted homes. With decades of experience under our belt, we understand the unique challenges of knockdown rebuilds – from dealing with demolition contractors to navigating council paperwork – and we ensure every step is managed with precision and care. Our past clients often remark on our attention to detail and genuine care in turning their vision into reality. When you build with Markon, you’re choosing a builder that’s committed to doing things properly – no shortcuts, no surprises – just a great home built with integrity.
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Our Knock Down Rebuild Process

While every project is unique, The Markon Group follows a well-structured process to take your knockdown rebuild from idea to completion. Here’s an overview of how it works and what to expect at each stage:

1. Initial Consultation & Site Assessment: It all starts with a friendly chat and a free, no-obligation site inspection. We’ll meet you at your home (or the property in question) to talk about what you envision for your new house. During this discovery phase, we assess your block’s features and any potential constraints. This includes checking site access, slope, orientation (to plan for sunlight and breezes), and looking for any council overlays or requirements (e.g. heritage protections, zoning, easements) that might affect a rebuild. We’ll discuss your family’s needs, design ideas, and budget range to gauge feasibility. By the end of this step, you’ll have a clearer idea of what’s possible on your site and we’ll advise if a knockdown rebuild is the right option for you (almost always, the answer is yes unless there’s a council restriction). This initial meeting is also a great time for you to ask questions about the process.
2. Design & Planning: Once we’ve determined that rebuilding is feasible and you’re ready to move forward, the next step is designing your new home. Markon’s design team will work closely with you to create a custom home plan that ticks all your boxes. We consider how you live your daily life – for example, do you need an open-plan kitchen to supervise kids while cooking? A home office? Extra bedrooms for a growing family? We’ll incorporate all your must-haves and nice-to-haves into the design. If you have a particular style in mind (Hamptons façade, modern minimalist, etc.), we ensure the new build captures that look. During this stage, we also handle soil tests and land surveys as needed, and begin preparing documentation like concept drawings. Some clients like to choose from our previous designs or display homes as a starting point, which we can then customize to suit their block; others prefer a wholly unique design – either approach is fine. We’ll also discuss inclusions and finishes in this phase so that the design and budget align. Markon believes in clear communication, so we’ll provide a ballpark pricing estimate once a concept is chosen, to make sure we’re on the right track before proceeding.
3. Approvals & Permits: Before any construction (or demolition) can begin, the necessary approvals must be in place. Don’t worry – The Markon Group takes care of this paperwork for you. We will arrange all required council and building approvals on your behalf. This typically includes obtaining a demolition permit from the local authorities to legally knock down your existing house, as well as lodging building plans for approval to ensure the new structure complies with the Building Code and local planning rules. We might also need specific permits if there are any trees to remove or if your site is in a special zone (for example, character overlay or flood-prone area). Our team is experienced with the Brisbane City Council, Ipswich City Council, Gold Coast City Council, and other SEQ jurisdictions – we’ll handle the applications and keep you updated on their progress. During this time, if not already done, we finalize architectural drawings, engineering certifications, and any energy efficiency reports needed for approval. This stage can take a few weeks to a few months depending on council processing times, but we manage it closely to minimize delays. The goal is to have everything approved and ready so we can hit the ground running once demolition is done.
4. Demolition of the Old House: Now for the exciting (and slightly bittersweet) part – tearing down the old to make way for the new! The Markon Group will coordinate the demolition of your existing home when the time comes. We work with professional, licensed demolition contractors who ensure the structure is taken down safely and efficiently. If your old home contains asbestos or other hazardous materials, rest assured these specialists will handle removal in accordance with all safety regulations. We’ll arrange disconnection of utilities like electricity, gas, and water prior to demolition, and get the site fenced and prepared. Demolition itself is usually quick – often a matter of days – though we allow a couple of weeks to account for site clearing and any unexpected issues (like bad weather). You don’t need to lift a finger; our team oversees the process, including waste removal. Typically, by the end of this stage, your block will be a cleared, clean slate – essentially a vacant lot ready for construction. Standing on your empty lot can be an emotional moment for some homeowners, but it’s also the moment you can start visualizing your new home taking shape on that very ground.
5. Construction of Your New Home: With the site clear and approvals in hand, Markon’s construction crew moves on to building your dream home! This phase begins with setting out the new home’s footprint on the block and laying the foundations. Then we progress through all the stages of a standard build: slab or footings, frame erection (you might see that shiny steel frame go up if you opted for it), roof and exterior cladding, plumbing and electrical rough-ins, interior walls, installation of fixtures and fittings, right through to final paint and finishing touches. During construction, quality control is paramount – we perform inspections at key stages (for example, slab poured correctly, frame straight and true, waterproofing done, etc.) to ensure everything meets our high standards and complies with codes. We also invite you for walkthroughs at certain points (like after framing or before plastering) so you can see the progress and feel confident in the build. Depending on the size and complexity of your home, construction typically takes several months. On average, building a new house can take about 6–9 months in Queensland, but it may be shorter or longer based on design and weather factors. Throughout this stage, our site supervisor and team will be in regular communication with you. Expect updates at least weekly, and you’re welcome to ask for a site visit if you’d like to check on something specific – we’re quite proud of our open-site policy for clients.
6. Handover & Aftercare: Finally, the most rewarding step – handing over the keys to your brand-new home! Before we consider the project truly finished, we conduct a thorough walkthrough inspection with you. Together, we’ll go through the entire home to check every detail. If there are any minor defects or touch-ups needed (common in any new build), we document them and get them fixed promptly. The Markon Group aims for a defect-free handover, meaning we strive to deliver your home in perfect condition at move-in. We’ll also provide you with a handover kit including all relevant documentation – warranties for appliances and materials, certificates (like waterproofing, glazing, etc.), and your homeowner warranty insurance through QBCC (which in Queensland covers structural defects for 6.5 years). Our team will explain how to operate any new systems in the house (for example, if you have a new smart home setup or irrigation system) and ensure you’re comfortable with everything. Even after you’ve moved in, the team at Markon remains just a phone call away. We stand by our work and are happy to attend to any questions or warranty items that might arise after construction. Our relationship doesn’t end at handover – we’re here to support you enjoying your new home for years to come.

The result of a successful knock down rebuild: a stunning modern home built by The Markon Group. You get to enjoy a brand-new house with all the features you’ve dreamed of – all without leaving your familiar neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can The Markon Group do a knock down rebuild on my block?
A: Yes – if your property is in the Brisbane, Ipswich, Gold Coast or greater South-East Queensland region, we can likely rebuild on your block. We handle projects on standard suburban lots, acreage properties, narrow city lots, and even challenging sloping sites. As long as there are no council restrictions preventing demolition (for example, heritage-listed homes cannot be demolished without special approval), we will work to make your project happen. Our team will perform a thorough site assessment and check local regulations, but in most cases, any residential block is suitable for a knock down rebuild.

Q: Do I need to arrange the demolition myself?
A: No, you don’t have to manage that. The Markon Group provides an end-to-end service, which includes coordinating the demolition of your old home. We will engage a licensed demolition contractor and schedule the demo at the appropriate time in the project. We also take care of obtaining the demolition permit and disconnecting utilities before demolition. Our team oversees the site clearing so that it’s done safely and efficiently. Essentially, you can leave the whole knock-down part to us, and we’ll hand over a clean site ready to rebuild.

Q: What about council approvals and permits?
A: We’ve got you covered. The Markon Group will handle all required approvals for your knock down rebuild. This includes lodging plans with council for building approval, obtaining demolition permits, and ensuring all building codes and local guidelines are met. We’re familiar with the processes in various SEQ councils, so we’ll navigate the paperwork on your behalf. You won’t have to wade through red tape – we’ll inform you of any key milestones or documents needed, but otherwise take care of it behind the scenes.

Q: How long does a knock down rebuild project take?
A: The timeline can vary, but generally you should allow roughly 12 months from start to finish for a full knock down rebuild. Some projects might be completed in as little as 8–10 months, while more complex custom homes could take 12–15 months. Here’s a breakdown: planning and design may take a few months (including time for approvals), demolition adds a few weeks, and construction itself often ranges around 6 to 9 months depending on the house size and weather delays. The Markon Group will give you a more specific timeline once we know the details of your project. We also do our best to streamline each phase – for example, preparing as much as possible during the approval wait so we can start construction promptly after demolition. Throughout the journey, we keep you updated on the schedule so you know what to expect.

Q: Do we need to move out during the knock down rebuild?
A: Yes, you will need to move out of the house during this process – since the old home will be demolished, it won’t be livable while we build the new one! Most homeowners arrange alternate accommodation (renting or staying with family) from just before demolition through to completion of the new build. It can be an adjustment to be away from home, but remember it’s temporary and leads to your brand-new home at the end. If it’s your primary residence being rebuilt, factor in rental costs for a few months as part of the project planning. The good news is you won’t be paying any more mortgages or stamp duty for a new property – you’re investing those funds into the rebuild itself. And Markon’s team works efficiently to get you back on your block and into your new house as soon as possible.

Q: Is knock down rebuild more expensive than renovating?
A: Not necessarily – in fact, it can be more cost-effective in many cases. Large-scale renovations often come with unpredictable costs; you might start with one budget and end up paying much more due to unforeseen issues (e.g. structural problems, delays, older materials needing replacement). With a knock down rebuild, you have a fixed price contract up front for a brand-new home. You also save on costs like stamp duty, agent fees, and even avoid having to do constant repairs that an older home might require. Every situation is different, but Markon will help you compare options. We provide transparent quotes for the new build and can even advise on the estimated costs of an equivalent renovation so you can make an informed choice. In our experience, if you want a significantly modernized home, it’s often better value to rebuild new than to renovate an aging structure piece by piece.

Q: What are the costs involved in a knock down rebuild?
A: The total cost will include several components: demolition of the old house, design and drafting fees, council/building approval fees, the construction cost of the new home itself, and potentially some site preparation costs (like earthworks or service connections). The Markon Group will provide a detailed, fixed-price quote covering all these aspects before we proceed to contract. We pride ourselves on delivering fully inclusive pricing with no fine print, so you know exactly what’s included. Of course, costs vary depending on the size and specifications of your new home.  We will work with you to maximize what you get and ensure transparency in pricing.

Q: What are the main advantages of rebuilding vs. moving?
A: We covered many of these above, but to recap the big ones: you get to stay in your preferred location (no need to leave your community), you avoid paying stamp duty on a new property (saving possibly tens of thousands of dollars), and you don’t have to pay real estate commissions or incur the hassle of selling/buying process. Additionally, you end up with a brand-new house customized for you, which is usually more energy-efficient and requires less maintenance than an older home. Emotionally, many people also prefer not to uproot their lives – a knock down rebuild means the kids can stay at the same schools, you keep your daily routines, and simply swap out the house itself for a better one. Financially, building new often adds value to your property and can be a smarter investment than pouring money into an old house or paying purchase costs on a different house.

Q: How do we get started?
A: Getting started is easy – just contact The Markon Group for an initial consultation. We’ll arrange a meeting to discuss your ideas and assess your current home/site. This first chat is free and comes with no obligations. We can answer any other questions specific to your situation and guide you on next steps. Even if you’re just in the early “thinking about it” stage, we’re happy to help with information and advice. Our goal is to make the knock down rebuild journey as smooth and rewarding as possible, from that first conversation all the way to the day you move into your dream home.

Ready to Rebuild Your Home in Brisbane, Ipswich or the Gold Coast?

A knock down and rebuild project can sound complex, but with the right builder by your side it’s an exciting and achievable way to get the home you’ve always wanted without leaving your neighborhood. The Markon Group has the experience, local knowledge, and personalized approach to make your knock down rebuild a success. From handling permits and demolition to designing and constructing a beautiful new home, we take care of the hard work while keeping you informed and involved. The result is a stunning custom home built on the land you love – truly the best of both worlds.

If your current house is holding you back but your location is perfect, don’t endure the stress of a never-ending renovation or the upheaval of moving. Instead, love your neighborhood AND love your new home by choosing a knock down rebuild with The Markon Group. Get in touch with our friendly team to explore how we can help you start fresh and build the home of your dreams, right where you are. Your ideal home might be closer than you think – it could be on the very same address you call home today!