CHOOSE
YOUR BUILDER
Choosing the right builder is as important as the home you build. The primary goal is to find a reputable and respectable builder who will deliver quality and meet your expectations. The following criteria can help you through the process of selecting the right custom-home builder.
Best Resources for Builder Recommendations
One of the best ways to find a builder who meets your needs is by speaking with homeowners who have recently completed the building process. Other great resources for builder referrals include your Mortgage Expert, friends, family, real estate agents, architects, or Goldenwest’s preferred builder list. Goldenwest works with several preferred builders who specialize in both stock plans and custom homes. Your Mortgage Expert can provide you with the names of preferred builders that may fit your needs.
Find a Builder That Offers a Warranty
One advantage of new construction is your home and components should typically be under warranty. Most builders offer at least a one-year warranty. You could also look into a structural warranty of 10 years or longer. Make sure your builder provides prompt and courteous service under the warranty.
Do Your Research
Before choosing a builder, ask for a complete list of references. The best list is the builder’s most recent clients, with projects both under construction and completed. Some builders may allow you to set up an appointment to visit homes they have previously built and possibly speak with the homeowners. Below is a list of questions that would make a great starting point when speaking to references and homeowners:
- Are you happy with your home and quality?
- Did the builder complete the home in a timely manner and as promised?
- Were they punctual?
- Did the builder listen to your requests and needs?
- Was the builder responsive to your needs?
- Would you build another home with this builder?
- Were there any problems or issues that arose during the building process and were those issues able to be resolved?
If you do get the chance to inspect and tour an existing home recently built, pay attention to the quality of finish work, paint, flooring, cabinets, and exterior materials.
Invest Time to Meet with Prospective Builders
A rule of thumb is to speak with at least two or three builders. Be prepared to invest the necessary time for thorough meetings with each builder. There is much to consider to insure you have a positive building experience. Remember, the builder has a vested interest in the construction of your home too, and both of you will expect to see progress from the first meeting. Below are topics to discuss during those meetings:
- A current resume of projects with similar scale and detail
- Estimated time frame
- Expectations for both parties
- Preferred contact method and frequency
- Description and understanding of how construction will progress
- List of subcontractors they work with
What Questions Should I Ask a Potential Builder?
Below are builder-specific questions to ask during the meeting:
- How many years have they been in business?
- Licensed and insured?
- On average, how many homes do they build each year?
- What do they have to offer that other builders may not?
- Do they specialize in production homes, custom homes or both?
- What are the standard features of the homes they build?
- Who will oversee the construction of the home?
- Who will be the main point of contact if there are any questions?
- How and when can you make changes or upgrades?
- How and when will the final price of the home be determined?
- Who absorbs increases or changes in materials or labor costs?
- What is the process for inspection at key points of construction?
- How do I address any concerns I may have regarding the construction process?
A face-to-face meeting is important because you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you. Expect the builder to be professional and willing to take the time to earn your trust by answering your questions. The builder you choose should be someone with whom you can work well and have open communication. Construction projects take anywhere from nine to twelve months, and in some cases may take longer. Once you feel you have found a potential builder, only then provide a copy of your plans to initiate a bid. We recommend you obtain more than one bid and confirm the builder’s timeline before making your final selection.
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