The Builder
The choice of a builder may be the most important decision in the
custom home-building process. Choosing a builder early in the process-
ideally before you've settled on a site or design for your home–can
set the stage for a successful home-building experience.
Why might you prefer to choose a builder early on? Builders say the process
is so complex that most owners need professional guidance from the beginning
to avoid mistakes in site selection, home design and written specifications.
Your budget probably shouldn't be among the top criteria in selecting
a builder. No builder can quote an accurate price for a custom or semi-custom
home until he or she knows the type, style, finishes and features of
the home, the site conditions and the type of contract you want to
use for construction. Rather than focusing on cost, you may well want
to base your decision on the builder's competence, reputation, professionalism,
warranty coverage and experience.
Here are seven criteria to consider when deciding on a builder:
- Reputation
Look for an established builder with an extensive client list.
- Area of Operations
Choose a builder who is familiar with the area where you want your home to
be built. Local knowledge is important because residential construction is
very regional in nature. An out-of-the-area builder might not be prepared
to handle variations in local building codes, subcontracting practices, inclement
weather patterns or other factors.
- Type of Home
Select a builder who has extensive experience constructing homes in your
price range and general design style.
- Compatibility
Building a home is a highly personal and emotional experience. That's
why you'll want choose a builder with whom you'll feel comfortable.
- Warranty
The builder should be willing and able to offer you a comprehensive written
warranty on your new home.
- Financial Stability
Some builders run their businesses better than other builders do. Make sure
the building company you select is financially viable.
- Financial strength
Success in the home-building business is earned by building
a quality product at a fair price. A builder who is financially
successful likely will still be in business during the warranty
period for your new home. Further, successful builders are
in the best position to contract for the services of top subcontractors
and suppliers–the people who will actually build your home.
Beyond these factors, the most important consideration is the quality
of the builder's homes. Cost is not a direct measure of quality. Rather,
good quality is the merging of good design with appropriate products
and materials that are installed with superior workmanship.
Articles Courtesy of HomeBuilder.com
