Thanks so much for all the advice - this forum continues to overwhelm me with the generosity of the members!

Some great advice - esp the now and later stuff -there are definiety things I could wait for eg landscaping etc - just turf would do to keep the dust down, outdoor entertaining area etc. Also makes me think of the things we could do ourselves - my mum can make the curtains etc. I would spend the money to get any structural garden work done tho - such as retaining walls to create flat areas - would be easier to do then than later.

The builder has an EXCELLENT reputation and is primarily based in my area. They have won awards (recently) for design, quality and customer service as well as value. They will also make changes to the plan for no extra cost such as position of internal walls/rooms, bathroom layout etc and flipping design etc. We can also do things to the plan we like such as "square off" the back to get a bit of extra space in kids b/r for low $$$ (eg $2k). They seem flexible, within reason of course.

They factor in sloping site costs into their sloping site designs but will come and do a tender BEFORE we buy the land to make sure it is suitable etc. They also have a 5 star inclusions pack (which is inc in the $290K which has lots of things that have been mentioned inc Omega appliances, remote garage, flyscreens, fancy fittings (taps etc), extra tiles in bathrooms, exhaust fans in all wet areas, china toilet cistern, choice of doors etc. The price also includes BASIX requirements in NSW which has to do with water tanks and enviro specs I think.

I am getting excited - DH hasn't said "No" to my ideas - so thats a good start - he needs time to think it over tho. I am going to go and visit the block again today!