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Using the right custom home builder for you is crucial this decision will significantly impact the entire outcome of your new home. We’ll cover some of the key factors that you should consider when searching for your new custom home builder.
Custom Home Builder Search
Before choosing your home plan you’ve probably already talked to a couple of builders some of the builders are probably even friends of yours or friends of friends and you’re likely already familiar with their reputation and experience. But if you’re choosing a builder that you’re unfamiliar with and don’t know do some research and look for a builder who has a solid reputation in the industry ask for references check the online reviews and even ask if you can tour some of their completed work.
Builder Experience
Experience is also crucial. Builders with a long history of successful projects are more likely to deliver quality results. This doesn’t mean that a new custom home builder isn’t going to provide quality work. It just means that a more experienced builder has, well, more experience. An inexperienced builder may take longer or need to as they go.
Portfolio
If you’ve seen the builders website you’ve probably seen the portfolio of some of their previous work that they’ve displayed on their website this is key when choosing a custom home builder because if you see work that they’ve completed that you want to also have completed in your home their portfolio confirms that they are capable of doing what you ask. You also get a better sense of the craftsmanship that they are capable of.
Confirm Credentials & Licensing
You’ll want to confirm the builder’s credentials and their licensing. Ensure that the builder has a current license and will adhere to the local building codes and regulations. Check for any professional affiliations certifications and memberships in the industry.
When we interviewed builders, a builder that we spoke with provided some questions that we should not only ask him but also ask other builders we are looking to work with. These questions are: has the builder ever filed bankruptcy, and has the builder ever worked for a company that has filed for bankruptcy. These questions are important because any company can close and reopen under a new name relatively quickly. This is also important because the builder will be responsible for spending your money. If they do not manage the money allotted for the build correctly and truthfully you could end up needing more money to complete your home.
Communication
Communication skills will be very important during your build you should find a builder that you communicate well with and understands the vision for your home. Effective communication will be vital throughout the construction process so assess their responsiveness and clarity in communication. A good builder should be able to explain complex construction details in a way that is easy for you to understand. One thing that I like about the builders that we have selected is that they use social media to explain a lot of the concepts in detail yet easily understandable for a person not in construction and provide examples and short videos.
Customization
Customization and flexibility is key and do you have a certain vision for your home and your needs may change during the construction process so you want a builder who was flexible and is able to make customizations as needed. Just expect that any changes or customizations you make during this process will come with a fee.
Quality of Materials
Ask the builder about the types and quality of materials that they will be working with high quality materials and skilled workmanship contribute to the longevity and value of your home. Using lower end materials can result in a on the add a low appraisal value and this could impact your loan and the final equity you have in the home once completed. Also as your home ages more quality materials will last longer and require less updates over time.
Timeline
You’ll want to ask your custom home builder about the timeline and project management of building your custom home. What is the estimated timeline for completion and make sure that it aligns with your expectations. If you’re financing your build the bank will have a timeline and the actual build will have a timeline and you’ll want to make sure that the home build will be completed within the timeline the bank sets. Asking about the project management process may seem silly but it’s an important to understand the process to ensure and efficient and organized construction if anything seems strange or off about the project management clarify with your builder.
Warranty?
A reputable builder should provide warranty on their work and the work of their contractors. Understanding the terms and duration of the warranty on your home during your build is important in case issues arise after you get your certificate of occupancy. Ask your potential builder about the process of post home construction support and how issues or concerns will be addressed once complete.
Price
One of the questions you’ve probably answered early on in your interview process I’m choosing a custom home builder is the pricing. Good custom home builders will provide a detailed breakdown of costs to ensure that there are no hidden fees. Your bank will need the detailed breakdown if you are financing the project. Before sending it to your bank a good transparent builder will provide a clear contract that outlines the scope of work the materials used and a payment schedule. You’ll also want to understand how changes in the costs will impact the overall build as if you’re financing the build the bank will lend you a certain amount and the pricing fluctuates for materials you’ll need to understand the process for making changes and paying for those changes.
Local Knowledge
The builder you choose for your custom home build we’ll likely be local because most builders don’t travel very far for custom home builds but you should consider a local builder who has knowledge and a better understanding of the local building codes suppliers subcontractors and environment. I carefully considering these factors and conducting A thorough search you can increase the likelihood of selecting a custom home builder who will meet your expectations and deliver a home that reflects on your vision.
Making the Decision
It’s also important to be on board with your spouse or partner in selecting a builder. You should both be on the same page as this will reduce any conflict and I told you SOS during the build. Building a custom home is stressful enough you don’t want to be arguing with your loved one over selecting the wrong builder.
