Kelly
Hi 10% is pretty normal re consents/engineers/ landscaping if needed that the builder has to pay for upfront however paying in advance for the whole build you are asking for trouble. I would be weary of this builder he could have cash flow problems plus its an open ticket to rip you off!. No matter who you end up building with you should have a building construction lawyer go over any contract for you $900 – $1500 as you cant afford to enter into this blind. Look for finance companies like New build finance that take care of the progress payment side of things so builder doesnt get paid in advance, work assessed before payment etc if you prefer that option,