10 Essential Tips For Choosing The Right Home Builder: A Novice's Guide
You’ve found an architect, you have your blueprints in hand, the vision for your dream home is crystal clear. Now it’s time to choose the right builder to make it all happen…
It's a big decision, and one you will need to live with for many months to come. But how do you decide, and what should you look out for?
Simply comparing estimates could take you down the wrong path... Even the way that builder's estimate, and what they include in their initial quote varies hugely, so when you are comparing prices you are unlikely to be comparing apples with apples...
So how else can you choose?
1. Trust your instincts:
There's a reason you have them! As a shortcut to keep you safe from harm... When you meet potential builders, trust your gut. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. You are entering into a partnership. You want someone who understands your vision, respects your input, and that you can trust to do what's best for you at all times.
2. Communication is key:
A builder who listens is a gem. Make sure you feel heard and understood. You want someone who stays open to your ideas and communicates clearly about timelines, budget and any bumps in the road.
3. Understand their process:
Ask up front about the building process from start to finish. A well organised builder with a solid plan will save you unnecessary headaches down the line. Get them to explain anything that isn't clear or that you want further details on. This is a good chance to learn about how they work, but also how they communicate before you make your decision.
4. Look for flexibility:
Homebuilding is a dynamic process, and unforeseen changes are bound to happen. A builder who can adapt and find solutions on the fly will make your life a whole lot easier, and the end result a whole lot better.
5. Be transparent about your budget:
A good builder is transparent about costs and will help you manage them along the way. They will assist you in making decisions to find the best value for your money without sacrificing quality. They can work with you to cut costs, or rethink parts of the build along the way as needed.
6. Check their track record:
Ask for references. Check out potential builders' past projects. Take a look at the builder's portfolio. Even better - visit completed homes if you can.
7. Speak to previous clients:
Ask the builder if you can speak to recent clients. It's always invaluable to hear directly from someone's first hand experience of working with them. Ask the client about any challenges they faced and how the builder handled them.
8. Visit current projects:
Ask your potential builder if you can visit any sites they are currently working on. That way you can get a sense of their work ethic, team dynamics and how their construction site is run.
9. Verify licensing and insurance:
Sounds like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people don't and then get caught out. Make sure your builder is licensed, insured and all paperwork is up to date.
10. Get it in writing!
Contracts are good for both you and your builder. Ensure everything that can be is included - from timelines to payment schedules, what happens if the build is delayed, frequency of site meetings, scope of work, implications of changes... You will spend a lot of time running through the details of this before the project starts. It might feel painful, but this process is very important and the foundation for a smooth partnership.
Remember, this is your dream home, and you deserve a builder that's as invested in it as you are. Take your time, do the research, and trust the process.
If you still have questions, or would like to talk to Harmony Build about your upcoming project, please get in touch! We'd love to hear from you.
