7 steps to Selecting the right Custom Home builder
Navigating a custom home build can be a daunting and tedious task. There are thousands of decisions to be made and think through. Communication between a designer/architect, client, and custom home building contractor is key. Here are key factors to consider when picking a custom home builder that will provide a great experience.
Transparent and timely communication: Choose someone that is willing to explain things in detail. There is nothing more frustrating than being given vague and ambiguous information, when looking for a direct answer. A great contractor is someone that will discuss your questions, comments, and concerns about every aspect of the project. Usually, you can get a sense from the very beginning when you first reach out, or are initially introduced. If they are rushing through the conversation and trying to move on, they will likely continue that way if you work with them. Remember that you are entering into a legally binding contract and a temporary relationship with this person, while they build what is often your most valuable asset. You don’t want the next 8-12 months to be a constant frustration, so make sure they communicate in a way that works well with you and your family.
Reputation and references: Ask for references and research the builder’s reputation. Have they built in your area, and do you know anyone they have built for. Often this is the most telling information. Great contractors will have raving reviews from people they have worked for in your area. Check their online reviews and if they have any online presence. Do they have photographs or video of completed work? Do they seem to know what they are doing and provide not only a high quality experience, but a high quality product? Any builder worth partnering with, will happily share past clients information, (with permission) and those clients will typically be happy to give a truthful review of their experience. They are responsible for a huge financial investment of yours, so do your due diligence, and find out if they are trustworthy and honest before you sign a contract or write a check.
Licensing and insurance: A custom home builder should be properly licensed and insured. You can and should, always request this information in writing prior to signing a contract. It is extremely important to protect yourself and your investment from law suits and unnecessary financial burden. A licensed general contractor must go through a minimum of 8 hours of continuing education per year in North Carolina to renew their license and must carry General Liability insurance. Often there are additional insurances and licensure requirements for certain businesses depending on their structure and employees, as well as the types of work they perform. For example, a business with 3 or more employees must carry workers compensation insurance and performing any mold and asbestos remediation require specific training and licensing. You can also ask for a generalized financial statement to make sure that builder is financially solvent. If they go out of business half way through your build, or a few months later, you’ll be in a tough position. Ask for proof up front so you know that you are in good hands.
Design flexibility: A skilled and knowledgable custom home builder should offer flexibility in the design process. They should be willing and able to work with you and your architect or designer to create a home that meets your specific needs and preferences. Often companies can also perform design services in house, and that can result in a more efficient project timeline and budget. Whether you purchase pre-drawn plans, are working with an architect or designer, or start a contract with a design build firm, you should have options. Ask about a contractors design offerings and preferences in your initial discussions to better understand if they are capable of being a team player.
Project management: In custom home building, things can change on a daily, or even hourly basis. A great custom home builder has great project management talent and skills. Consider if they use software to manage project schedules and budgets. Ask about who will be running the build, and how often you can expect that person to be physically on site. Ask if there is daily site supervision, and who the point of contact will be. Great questions to ask are “Who do I talk to when things go wrong?”, and “How will those things be addressed?” Strong project management infrastructure will help minimize confusion and delays on a project, ultimately getting you to move in day in your new custom dream home, on time and on budget.
Detailed contract & warranty: Review the contract carefully, and feel free to have an attorney review the contract as well. There are specific requirements for what should be included in a construction contract and you want to make sure that each piece of information is covered in detail. You want to be able to understand the scope of work, the timelines, the payment schedule, and any warranties that come with the work. A comprehensive contract protects your interests and ensures both parties are on the same page. A vague and basic contract is a very dangerous thing, so take your time and read through it. It’s important to understand what you are agreeing to well in advance of any potential snags in the project.
Quality of workmanship: If at this point, the contractor checks off all of the previous boxes, they will likely have a high quality of workmanship. But still, you should examine the quality of the builder’s previous projects. Visit completed homes if possible. Pay attention to details such as finishes, materials, and craftsmanship. High-quality workmanship is essential for a durable and aesthetically pleasing home. Ask the builder where they source materials, and what trade partners and subcontractors they use. Ask them why they work with them, and what they produce that puts them above other options. A custom home builder that cares about details and communication will likely care about the quality of work they are providing. They would be happy to share that type of information with you, and take pride in doing so.
At the end of the day, you’ll have plenty of different options. If you go down this list and the custom home builder can check off these boxes for you, you are headed in the right direction. It’s important not to rush into anything. Take your time and do your due diligence to make sure they are the builder you want, and not the builder you settle for. Trust your gut as well. If you get a bad feeling, or the builder gives off strange vibes, it’s probably not a good fit.
To learn more about Dove Creek Contracting’s custom home building process and offerings, click here