Theuns and Elsabe De Wet built a Paal home with the initial intention of putting it on the rental market. They found a tenant even before the home was finished.
The couple, who had migrated from South Africa ten years earlier, were looking to settle in the Hunter Valley, despite enjoying life in the Hills District of Sydney.
“We bought a house in Cessnock with the plan of subdividing and building a new home behind the existing one,” Theuns said. “Our idea was to eventually live in the new property and convert the front house into a bed and breakfast.”
Their long-term plan kicked off sooner than expected when the couple met a local Cessnock builder who had built his own Paal home.
“He showed us his house and put us in contact with Michael Christie from Paal in Emu Plains. Michael gave us so much insight and support. Together we selected one of the home designs and adjusted it to fit our footprint.”
Theuns and Elsabe chose the Hastings 3 from Paal’s economical Met-Kit range. Paal helped them modify the three-bedroom home to include two bathrooms, as well as give it a traditional cottage look.
“That worked well. The home’s appearance ties in with a country town and we really like the feel of it.”
Building through Paal offered a cost-effective way to achieve a low-maintenance yet quality family home, according to Theuns.
The couple was heavily involved in the building process. Despite the occasional challenge, such as excavation and plumbing issues caused by the subdivision, the build was successful.
“The process of working through Paal was exceptionally well done. We got what we hoped for, with Paal as our support. We couldn’t have asked for better.”
“I had a tenant committed before I’d actually opened it up,” said Theuns, who was painting one day when a local asked him what he was doing. Theuns explained he was preparing to lease his house. The man said he had a friend who might be interested.
“The friend saw the house and wanted to take it. He moved in and he’s very happy.”
So are Theuns and Elsabe. “We feel really good about the look and shape of the property. We had a dream, and it eventually evolved into a house, and now we’re very proud.”