I have heard of couples finishing within 12 months. Meaning they were able to move in but normally the yard wasn't fully completed. I have also heard horror stories about contractors not turning up, putting in the wrong things, under estimating the costs etc.
Some councils are much stricter than others in terms of land and heights. Hornsby council is very strict. The land is normally good and leaves you room for a yard but they want you to build your house up rather than out. So if you want a two or more storey place it's perfect but if you want a single level home of a decent size then that council won't work for you.