I built a Metricon 6 years ago and its been fine. A few minor issues where a subbie stuffed up over the years, but to their credit they have come back and fixed the wrongs on each occasion.
A local builder will cost you quite a bit more per sq/m. My next house would probably be a Porter Davis or a Henley as their designs look sensational. If you go with a volume builder, just ENSURE you let them know that you are not the type of person who will accept 1/2 arsed workmanship and always keep abreast of each stage and regularly visit the job site. I used to leave quite a few windows slightly ajar (as they lock you out of the building until you take possession) and get into the house weekly to look around for any problems / errors. That was HUGELY valuable!! If you do that you should be fine. Remember that you get what you pay for!
Also try and plan for future proofing and anything you think you'd want in 3-5 years etc (if you do plan on being in the joint semi long term)... I did. My idiot family kept telling us the house was gonna be too big. Then we had 3 boys!! Its a large house but perfectly suited to our needs. I now wish I had a 3rd garage and a theatre room etc. That will all be in my next joint. Just my 2c worth
