Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to build a new home in Vancouver?

The cost to build a home in Vancouver varies greatly and is difficult to pinpoint without a complete project scope. Many use “Price Per Square Foot” as a rough estimate, but this can fluctuate depending on factors like whether it includes living space or permitted Floor Space Ratio, and if taxes (PST, GST) or soft costs (architects, permits, insurance) are included. Site conditions, access, property size, and design features like basements, suites, or rooftop decks also influence the final cost, making a precise estimate challenging without detailed project specifics.

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When should I contact a home builder if I’m considering building a new home?

The earlier the better.

Many clients wait until after they’ve finalized their home plans with an architect or designer, but by involving a builder early in the process, you can make informed decisions that align with your budget. Early collaboration allows the builder to provide valuable insights on costs and practical considerations, helping you achieve your goals while staying within realistic financial limits.

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What should I expect from my first appointment with the Averra team?

In your first appointment with the Averra team, expect a collaborative conversation where we learn about your project and its specific requirements. We’ll discuss your ideas, project scope, budget, and timeline, and you’ll get an overview of our process.

This meeting is also a chance to ask any questions you have and address any concerns. Ultimately, it’s an opportunity for both parties to assess if we are a good fit to work together and ensure your vision aligns with our approach to delivering quality projects.

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What areas do you build in?

Averra has proudly built homes around the Greater Vancouver Area including West Vancouver, North Vancouver, West Side and East Side Vancouver.

At this time, we have a strong focus and several exciting projects underway in East Vancouver and the West Side. In addition, we have experience building in the City of Burnaby with projects in the Burnaby Heights neighbourhood.

Does Averra offer design-build services?

Yes!

We can offer one-stop integrated design-build services.  It is a seamless way to work with our team from the very beginning to envision, develop and construct the home or duplex that meets your needs. 

Simply complete this form to let us know what you’ve been thinking about and we can help you get started.

 Can we speak to past clients (homeowners) of homes Averra Developments built?

Absolutely!  Averra will proudly refer 2-3 past clients of homes we recently built and completed.  We want to be considerate to our past clients’ time and schedules thus, we generally provide these referrals once we have answered all of your questions and you are reasonably confident you would like to work with us as your builder.

Do you offer home warranty?

Yes, as a member of the National Home Warranty Program, Averra offers a 2-5-10 home warranty insurance. It includes 2-years of coverage on labour and materials; 5-years of coverage on the building envelope, and 10-years coverage on major structural items.

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Do all new home builders provide warranties?

No, only builders approved by the Home Protection Office (HPO) and deemed Licensed Residential builder can apply for warranty coverage.

Once a builder is deemed a Licensed Residential builder they must apply for third party insurance coverage. Not all builders are approved for coverage and both HPO and insurance companies conduct extensive screening for approval. Screening includes: business history, technical expertise, financial capacity, and after sales customer service. Each year the Licensed Residential Builder must reapply with both HPO and their insurer.

What do you Build?

Our focus and the majority of our experience is building residential multiplexes, duplexes, custom homes, net zero homes infills and laneways.  We build homes for clients to live in, rent or sell.  Each year we also develop a few select projects which we will build and sell.

In addition, we have experience and can help clients with major home renovations to raise their homes and build second or third floor additions.

We are experienced building high performance homes with ICF foundations and are Qualified NetZero builder

Can I visit my home during the construction process?

Yes, as part of the build process there will be several scheduled “site visits” although we are very safety conscious and require all site visits outside of these be scheduled through the site supervisor.

Are Pinterest and Houzz good tools to use when planning a new home?

Absolutely!  Both are excellent and help us see what our clients are envisioning. Often people cannot articulate what is in their mind, so using these platforms can be very helpful.

Is Averra trained and licensed to build an energy-efficient new home?

Yes, the Averra team has successfully completed, applies their knowledge to new home builds and holds a valid EnerGuide Rating System (ERS) license.

For more information visit: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/efficiency/homes/20556

What is the difference between the “NearZero” program and “Net Zero” home?

NearZero is a program sponsored by the City of Vancouver and CleanBC. Together they are working to collect data and encourage the construction of more high-performance homes in our city.  It is a program to support Vancouver’s goal to transition to zero emission buildings (ZEBs) in all new construction by 2030.  The NearZero Program has been developed and is administered by the Zero Emissions Building Exchange (ZebX) to accelerate the knowledge, capacity and passion for zero emission buildings.

NetZero is a standard of construction that results in a home or building with a zero net energy consumption for heating and hot water needs.  In Canada, the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) oversees the training and certification of home construction that meets this standard.  Homes that earn the net zero home label produce as much energy as they consume.

Does Averra build homes that are part of the NearZero program and are Net Zero labeled?

Yes, and yes!

Our team is proud to have projects in the NearZero Program, supporting the growth of innovative greener custom home building in Vancouver.

We are trained and experienced builders of both single-family homes and duplexes. Our passionate construction team is trained and actively engaged in the construction of NetZero certified homes in Vancouver, BC, Canada.

Does Averra have experience building homes in Vancouver’s peat bogs?

Yes, we have built several homes in Vancouver’s former peat bog neighbourhoods.  These are areas that use to be former marshes or creek beds that the city drained in the 1900s.  Peat is a sponge full of water and will rise and sink depending on the water table.

You have likely walked, biked or driven through these areas where roads, sidewalk and homes are unleveled or have cracked masonry or concrete.   Vancouver has several of these areas throughout the city.

We have established relationships with engineers that have worked in these areas, experience with the cost and schedule impacts of using helical piles to build home foundations that meet seismic requirements and ensure new homes will stand strong for many years to come.

Is Averra hiring?

Yes, we are always looking for great people to join our team.  Feel free to check out our Careers pages for positions we are actively looking to fill.