Thinking of building a home? Here's what you need to know about the crisis in construction

First-home buyers have been caught up in the collapse of a string of construction companies. (ABC News: Emma Machan)

Imagine you've saved a deposit, signed a contract with a builder, and watched eagerly as the foundations of your dream home finally began to take shape.

Then, you hear the news that the company has gone broke and work on your half-built house comes to a grinding halt.