So, you’ve finally decided to build your forever home. Congratulations!
Even as you begin to envision what the final product will look like, your next steps are crucial if you want to make that vision a reality. Choosing the right builder can make or break your plans, and since you’ll be working with them for upwards of a year, it pays to pick the right team.
If you’re not sure how to find the right person, we’ve got you covered. Read on for the five tips you need to know to hire a builder.
1. Start With the Pros
If you’re not sure how to start, it’s a good idea to use expert help to come up with a list of experienced builders. First, check with a local chapter of The National Association of Home Builders and ask whether they have a directory of who to hire to build a house in your region.
Another good option is your local yellow pages directory. Alternatively, you can check with your town office to see if they have a list of contractors on file.
2. Narrow Down Your Options
Once you have a list handy, it’s time to narrow down your options with a little research.
Look up the builders’ credentials with the Better Business Bureau and your State Contractors Board. Make sure that the builders are licensed, insured, and bonded in your state. Call sub-contractors and suppliers to hear their opinions about working with the builders before you hire someone to build a house.
3. Reach Out to References
For each builder you’re considering, ask for the contact information of a few references you can speak to. Once you get hold of these references, ask about their experiences during the building process.
Was the original estimate accurate, and did the project finish on time and on budget? How did the builder react to stress and callbacks? Was the project organized, and were the finances transparent?
Overall, your goal is to get a good sense of whether or not they’d recommend this builder for your home. The top home builders will have glowing reviews from every reference you speak to, making it clear who you should hire!
4. Ask the Right Questions During Interviews
The interview is a key moment when you’ll have the opportunity to dig deep into the builder’s practices and perspective, so don’t waste it! Asking the right questions makes all the difference.
Ask how they’ll determine the cost of your home, how pre-construction services are compensated, and how they’ll address your questions during building. See if you can meet the project manager and ask who will be supervising the day-to-day work. Learn how long they expect the project to take, and make sure you understand the warranties in full.
5. Watch for Red Flags
As you move forward, you should still be alert for any sign of red flags throughout the hiring process. This can include anything from a poorly written contract to an incomplete estimate. You’ll also want to steer clear of anyone who requires a substantial down payment before work begins or anyone whose bid seems too good to be true.
While not all of these red flags are necessarily deal-breakers, you should think twice about hiring any company that raises alarm.
Follow These Steps to Hire a Builder
If you’ve been stuck in the process of learning how to hire a builder, these steps will help you get past the initial rut and move forward with your project. The right builder makes all the difference when it comes to your forever home, and these five simple steps can help you partner with the perfect team for your needs.
Get started with your research today!
Want to learn more about the home and real estate tips you need to know? Check out our other posts for more helpful information.
