Lifestyle Block Dreams? Here’s How to Make It Work

Owning a lifestyle block is a dream for many, a bit of land, space to breathe, a garden, maybe even a few animals. But for most people, the challenge isn't the dream it's knowing how to get started.

If you're holding the title to a bare block, or you already live in an older home on a large section, this blog will help you explore different strategies, spark ideas, and maybe even start your strategic plan for your new home.

Live on Your Land While You Build

One of the biggest questions is: where will you live while your new home is being built?

Here are three practical solutions:

·       Build a shed or sleepout with insulation, plumbing, and basic amenities. This gives you short-term accommodation and keeps you close to the build. It works especially well if option #3 is something you’re considering. If you already plan to have a shed later, this could be a smart way to achieve both your dream home and dream shed.

·       Build a 70m² granny flat. With new rule changes expected by early 2026, you may not need building or resource consent. This unit can later become guest accommodation, a work-from-home space, or even a rental.

·       Subdivide your land and sell the existing home (if there is one). You can live in the house while preparing your plans, then sell it off and build your dream home on the remaining land, trading up from old to new.

This last strategy is often overlooked, but it’s one of the smartest. It can release equity, reduce debt, and allow you to stay on the land you love, just in a new, purpose-built home.

You may be able to combine several of these ideas. With a bit of planning, you can create a strategy that works for you and start working towards that dream home.

Always check with your local council for the rules that apply to your property.

Use Your Land to Fund Your Dream

If you own a larger lifestyle block - whether bare or developed, you might be sitting on untapped value.

A few examples:

·       Subdivide and sell part of the land: If zoning allows, you can use the proceeds to help fund your new home and take financial pressure off.

·       Neighbouring developments: If nearby properties are being developed and you’re planning to subdivide in the future, it might be the perfect time to bring in services like power or water. Shared timing could reduce costs and make access easier.

·       Upgrade the existing home and sell: If your land has an older home, consider giving it a light renovation. A fresh coat of paint or new carpet can go a long way. These relatively low-cost upgrades can add value and give you a solid return on investment.

These options work especially well when combined with a staged building approach. A little future planning, starting smaller and expanding later - can make all the difference.

Stage Your Build for More Flexibility

You don’t need to build everything at once. In fact, building in stages is one of the smartest ways to make progress without putting yourself under financial pressure.

You could start with:

·       A shed with a self-contained studio

·       A small home that can be extended later

·       A granny flat or minor dwelling, with the main build planned for Stage Two

This approach gives you flexibility and breathing space and often allows you to live on the land during construction, saving thousands in rent or bridging costs.

Things to Think About When Building on a Lifestyle Block

Lifestyle blocks offer amazing opportunities but they also require more planning upfront than a typical suburban site. Here are some key things to consider early:

·       Water tanks: Most blocks don’t have town supply, so you’ll need rainwater tanks. Size them to suit your future home not just the initial stage.

·       Pumps and filtration: Reliable water pressure and clean water make a big difference. Don’t forget UV filtration if you're collecting rainwater.

·       Firefighting water supply: Many councils require a minimum amount of stored water (often 20,000L) that’s accessible in an emergency.

·       On-site sewage systems: You’ll need a septic tank or treatment system. It’s worth installing one that can handle your future home not just the smaller structure you're starting with.

·       Driveway and access: Emergency vehicles and delivery trucks need safe access, even in wet weather.

·       Running power and internet: Getting services to your build site can add unexpected costs. Don’t forget to include trenching and cabling in your early planning.

·       Site prep and earthworks: Sloped land or soft ground can impact foundations and add to costs. A soil test is a smart first step.

💡 Tip: If you’re starting with a sleepout, granny flat, or shed, it’s often more cost-effective to install larger infrastructure like tanks and sewage upfront. That way, they’re ready when you build the main home later.

Smart planning now avoids extra costs and stress later on.

How Marsden Homes Makes It Easier

When you’re building your future, you need more than a good builder - you need a team you can trust from day one.

Here’s what you can count on with Marsden Homes:

·       Fixed-price contracts - so you know exactly where you stand

·       24/7 client portal access - track your schedule, updates, and budget in real time

·       Weekly photo updates - perfect if you’re off-site or overseas

·       200+ quality checks - because “near enough” isn’t good enough

·       Defect-free handover - move in with confidence

·       5-star aftercare - we check in after handover and stay with you for the long haul

We also get involved early - helping you explore the best way to approach your build, based on your land, budget, and long-term goals.

Ready to Start Planning?

Whether your lifestyle block is a blank canvas or includes an older home, we can help you unlock its full potential and build a home designed around your life now and into the future.

👉 Book a 15-minute call to talk through your land and where to start Book a Call

Your lifestyle dream is closer than you think. Let’s make it work - together.