Choosing a Custom Builder

Designing your own home can be an exciting process. It provides the opportunity to intimately create the perfect home for your family's needs. Yet, an enjoyable custom home experience requires choosing the right builder that can meet your needs with a quality custom home product.
     -Walk through a few of the builder's previous homes to determine whether the style matches your own.
Every custom builder adds their own distinctive touch and style to each home they build. By walking through completed homes or looking through a portfolio of photography, you can distinguish if the builder captures the vision of your home. Visiting these homes will also provide great ideas to incorporate into your own home.
      -Determine if a builder has strong industry relationships by checking lender and trade contractor references.
A quality custom home requires a builder that has strong industry relationship with trade contractors and construction lenders. Satisfied trade contractors ensure the buyer that contractors are committed to the builder and to providing a quality product. This also provides confidence that there will not be any surprises at the closing
      -Find out how long the builder has been in the custom home building business, and choose one that has been around for several years.
Longevity is important when choosing a custom builder. A builder who has weathered different economic climates is committed to quality-built homes. They will also have many satisfied customers to verify their commitment. A builder that has been around for the long-haul will also be around to fulfill any warranty claims.
      -Ask if the builder is involved in ongoing industry education to keep abreast of the most up-to-date building technologies and materials.
The educated builder will provide fascinating ideas and items you can add to your home -- from appliances, cabinets, home entertainment systems, security systems, pre-wiring, energy saving items, allergy considerations, construction techniques, and many more. He will know the latest trends in design and can help you build a home that you and your family will enjoy "showing off" to family and friends.
     -Read through the contract to ensure that you understand it and are getting full disclosure.
All builder contracts differ. Make sure you thoroughly read your builder agreement before starting construction on your home. All questionable items should be put in writing. By having all expectations agreed upon in advance, the buyer will know exactly what to expect and be able to resolve any miscommunications more quickly.
      -Investigate the warranty and compare it to other standard warranties in the industry.
Most builders provide a one-year construction warranty. Find out as much as you can about what warranties the builder offers and have them put in writing. By understanding exactly what the warranty covers will protect you in the future of your home.