Having a custom home built is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people that allows them to finally create the dream home they have always wanted for their family. However, the process of building a custom home can feel stressful and overwhelming, which is why it is important that you find the right home builder to walk you through this process.
The right builder will be able to guide you through all of the decisions you will need to make, and they will work tirelessly to ensure that the end result is the home you have always wanted. Yet, with so many custom home builders to choose from, how will you know which one is right for you? To help get you started on your journey towards building your dream home, here are a few tips on how to choose the right custom home builder.
Compile a List of Potential Builders
The first step you should take when looking for a custom home builder is to compile a list of potential builders in your area. It is important to take your time when researching builders to see who may best fit your needs. Look at whether builders have done previous work in your area, and how much experience they have building custom homes.
When building a custom home it is important to look at builders close to you, as they will be familiar with local building regulations, and they may even be able to help you find a lot to build on if you do not already have one in mind. If you know people who have had a custom home built, ask them who they worked with, what the experience was like, and whether they would recommend them to you, as word-of-mouth can be a great way to find potential builders to add to your list.
Research Reviews and Previous Work
As you continue to narrow down your list of potential builders, it is important that you take time to really research each builder thoroughly. Look at their Google and Yelp reviews to see what previous customers had to say about their work, as previous customer satisfaction can give you a good idea as to whether or not you want to work with a builder.
When looking at a builders’ website and social media pages, you should also look to see if there are any pictures and videos of recent houses they have built/worked on. Looking at a builder’s previous work can help you to get a feel for the quality and style of their work, as this can help you see if they will be the right fit. If most of their work appears to be modern and you prefer a more classic design, then their design style may not be right for you.
Meet With Multiple Builders
Once you have narrowed down your list to a few key builders you may want to work with, it is important that you take the time to sit down with each builder on your list and discuss what you are looking for in a custom home. This will allow you to get a sense for what each builder is like, what their process is, and whether or not you might feel comfortable working with them.
A critical mistake many people make is to choose the first builder they meet with. However, even if the first builder seems like a good fit, it is important to talk to multiple builders, and get multiple quotes, to get a better sense of your options. While meeting other builders may reaffirm your belief that the first builder is your best option, you may also be surprised to find a builder whose personality, experience, and style better matches what you are looking for.
Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions
When meeting with builders, it is important that you are not afraid to ask questions, as asking questions can give you a good sense of a builder’s customer service skills. A good builder will understand that having a custom home built is a major investment, and they will be more than willing to answer any questions that you may have, even if they seem minor or insignificant to you. In fact, a great builder will be fully transparent and will encourage questions, and they may even provide answers to questions you had not thought of before.
If at any point a builder seems annoyed by your questions, like they are trying to end the meeting, or if they seem to be rushing you into making a decision, these are indicators of a builder you will want to steer clear from.
Ask for References
You should also not be afraid to ask a builder for references from past customers. A good builder will be more than willing to provide contact information from recent customers you can contact who are willing to provide testimonials regarding the quality of their work. Great builders may even provide this information before you can request it. Be sure to follow up with these references so that you can get a better idea of what the builder is like. Do not waste time working with builders who are unwilling, or seem hesitant, to provide you with references.
Ask About Warranties
One of the primary advantages of owning a new construction home is that the home, and everything within it, will be brand new and will likely be covered under a warranty. This can be a relief for many homeowners as they will not have to worry about dealing with the expensive problems that can come up with older homes.
However, make sure when talking to builders to ask about what kind of warranty service they provide. A good builder will be confident in the quality of their work, and they will provide an extensive warranty to back this confidence. This is something you should look for in a builder as a warranty will give you a peace-of-mind that you will not have to deal with problems with your home in the near future.
When choosing a custom home builder, it is important that you take your time to find an experienced builder who will be able to provide you with the dream home you have always wanted. Contact us to learn more about what you should look for in a custom home builder as well as to find out about how we can make your dream home a reality.