Building your home with Defence benefits is one of the smartest ways to achieve long-term financial security — but like any major investment, it pays to plan ahead. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking to build for your family, or planning an investment property, understanding how your Defence entitlements fit into your home-building journey is key.

At Simonds Homes, we’ve guided thousands of ADF members through this process — making sure every benefit and opportunity is maximised. Here are the five things you should know before you start building.

1. Understand Which Benefits You Qualify For

Before you start looking at designs or finance, confirm which Defence entitlements you’re eligible for. Each scheme — DHOAS, HPAS, and HPSEA — comes with its own criteria around service length, postings, and property type.

Taking the time to clarify these early will ensure you’re setting realistic goals and avoiding delays. Our Defence Specialist, Prue Dowsey, works directly with ADF clients to help confirm eligibility and coordinate with Defence-aligned brokers who understand the finer details of each benefit.

2. Plan for Your Future — Not Just the Present

Life in Defence can change quickly. When choosing where and what to build, think long-term — not just your current posting. Will the home still suit your lifestyle in five or ten years? Would it make a good rental if you’re posted elsewhere?

At Simonds, our flexible range of home designs — from compact low-maintenance options to larger family homes — ensures your property grows with you, no matter where life takes you.

3. Choose a Builder Who Understands the Defence Lifestyle

Not every builder is experienced in managing the unique circumstances of ADF families. You need a partner who understands how postings, relocations and entitlements affect your build timeline and financing.

Simonds Homes offers specialised support through our Defence Program, helping streamline approvals, manage timelines and provide flexible appointment options that suit your schedule — even when you’re away on deployment or training.

4. Don’t Overlook Location

Your home’s location affects everything — from DHOAS eligibility to long-term rental demand. Building near key Defence bases like Amberley, Puckapunyal, or Edinburgh not only supports your current lifestyle but also strengthens your property’s investment potential.

Our consultants can help you identify high-growth communities and estates that fit both your family’s needs and your Defence benefits.

5. Maximise Value Through Defence Benefits and Builder Offers

Your Defence entitlements are just the beginning of your savings. When combined with Simonds Homes’ offers and promotions, you can gain even greater value — from premium upgrades to price savings on complete turnkey homes.

With Prue’s guidance and Simonds’ transparent fixed-price contracts, you can build with confidence knowing every benefit and bonus is working for you.

Build with Confidence, Backed by Experience

For over 75 years, Simonds has built homes for families across Australia — including those who serve. With our Lifetime Structural Guarantee, flexible designs, and dedicated Defence expertise, we’re here to help you build the home that fits your future.