A second home, built where you already live.
SaintJ Group designs, approves and builds architect-led backyard homes across Melbourne — for extra income, extra space, or extra family under one roof.
The most efficient square metre in Australian property.
$450+
Typical weekly rent for a 2-bed backyard home, Melbourne metro
6–10
Weeks from slab to handover
0
Stamp duty — you already own the land
15–20%
Typical uplift to total property value
Three starting points. Every one fully customisable.
Prices are a guide based on a standard Melbourne block with typical services access. Your fixed price is confirmed after site assessment.
The Studio
1 bedroom, 35–45m²
From $139,000
- Open-plan living & kitchenette
- Full bathroom
- Private entry & courtyard
- 6-week build program
The Retreat
2 bedroom, 55–65m²
From $189,000
- Separate living & dining
- Two full bedrooms
- Study nook
- 8-week build program
The Residence
2–3 bedroom, 70–85m²
From $239,000
- Full-size kitchen
- Ensuite + main bathroom
- Alfresco deck
- 10-week build program
Designed for your site
No off-the-shelf shed conversions. Every home is drafted against your block’s orientation, overlays and easements before a single quote is fixed.
Fully approved, fully insured
Planning permits, building permits, and full construction insurance are handled end to end — nothing left for you to chase.
Built to last, not just to lease
7-star energy ratings as standard, double glazing available, and materials chosen for a 50-year service life, not a 10-year flip.
Before you ask, we answer.
Do I need a permit for a backyard home?+
Almost always, yes — either a planning permit or a building permit, depending on your zone, block size and overlays. We manage the entire approval process for you, from initial assessment through to the final permit.
Can I rent out the backyard home separately?+
In most councils, yes, provided the dwelling meets minimum size and amenity requirements. We design every home with independent rental in mind — separate entry, its own services, and full compliance with rental standards.
What does 'fixed price' actually mean?+
Once your contract is signed, the price doesn't move for anything within the agreed scope — no site cost surprises, no allowance blowouts. Any changes you request are quoted and approved before they happen.
How long does the whole process take, start to finish?+
From your first site assessment to keys in hand is typically 4–6 months, with the physical build itself taking 6–10 weeks depending on the package.
Request your fixed-price quote.
Tell us a little about your block and what you’re after. A SaintJ Group consultant will call within one business day to book a free site assessment.
Book a free 20-minute site assessment call.
No pressure, no obligation — just a clear answer on what your block can carry and what it would cost.