The BuildMeUp website has just been launched and is the brainchild of Christchurch man Eddie McLean. It is the result of more than two years of in-depth research and planning by its founder.

McLean identified there was a need for BuildMeUp which is a New Zealand-first independent comparison platform where it provides home buyers with design & plans to be tendered for free to multiple builders.

“Having worked for several building companies over the years I have learnt from what they've done right and even more so from what they're done wrong.

“I knew there had to be a better way to build and to have the certainty that you’ve got the right builder and the best deal,” McLean said.

“I felt there needed to be far more information provided with absolutely no sales pressure.

“I didn't want to represent just one company that "says" it's the best. I wanted to be completely independent, unbiased and offer choice, transparency and convenience.

“When people compare through BuildMeUp’s platform they are able to make more informed decisions and of course competition means they get the most home for their money, which is our goal.”

With BuildMeUp's tendering process it's win-win for both customer and builder with cost efficiency that benefits everyone. Customers have a free tendering platform to help refine the right builder. Builders have the most economical marketing which creates the opportunity to price for only the work they want to specialise in.

McLean predicts BuildMeUp will save home buyers, in some cases, 10s of thousands of dollars and with housing affordability being very front of mind this has to be considered a very positive step.

“We may not be popular with those in the industry who apply high margins, but many others are embracing the platform and our online community is growing by the day”

“Commercial buildings are tendered every day, so why not your home? Our website will provide a side by side comparison on price, specification, company information and testimonials, there's certainty that only a tender can offer,” Mclean says.

With strict criteria for all building members, the BuildMeUp website also has a list of connected suppliers, advisors and advertisers who also provide valuable pricing information.

Here are some comments received from suppliers:

James Holloway from Holloway Builders -

“BuildMeUp provides us with a cost-effective marketing channel and the opportunity to connect with our preferred clients and deliver them the quality builds that the Holloway Brand is known for.”

George Hattingh from the Drafting Zone –

“BuildMeUp offers me a new and exciting way to advertise my concept plans and full design services, building companies plans have ties, but there can often be a more flexible and cost-effective option using an independent designer like me.”

BuildMeUp will start off with a base in Christchurch but plans to go nationwide within 12 months.