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We will offer tips for home builders here. Articles will be archived as new ones appear.

How To Choose a Builder  

Once you’ve contacted a builder, ask to see a client list of three or four people for whom the builder has constructed a home; you do not want just references, but people for whom the builder has completed construction of a house similar to your plans. Just phoning and asking a few questions is not enough. Arrange to visit the homes of the references, so you can check for the signs of good construction. Be sure to do this when the builder is not there, as his presence may inhibit the homeowners from giving you the frank and candid answers you need. Remember, you actually are conducting interviews to find the most qualified person for the job. Include a background check and a check with a local Better Business Bureau. Also check to determine if the builder has any credentials, awards, recognitions, and affiliations with industry associations?

Your references should allow you to inspect their homes, which will allow you to get a first-hand look at the quality and craftsmanship the builder offers. Satisfied clients - and, by the same token, unsatisfied clients -- can be your best resource when deciding who will be the best choice to build the home of your dreams.

Some questions that you should consider asking the builder/contractor:

• Were you comfortable working with this builder? Was there a good team spirit and compatibility between you and the builder?
• Did the project run smoothly? If not, what went wrong?
• Did the job finish on schedule? If not, what held it up and were there any unexplainable delays?
• Were the cost estimates accurate? If they went over, where and why?
• Was the builder helpful in keeping within the budget?
• Did he make helpful suggestions or bring up ideas you had not thought of? Were his explanations clear and logical?
• Was he frequently present on the job? How was the flow of communication during the entire process?
• Was the builder helpful in situating the house? 
• Was the builder interested in preserving the lot and the surrounding areas such as trees, natural habitat and/or natural landscaping? (This is sometimes referred to as “going green.”)
• Did the contractor schedule inspections in a timely manner, and were they completed without a problem?
• Did the contractor always use the quality of materials and workmanship as specified in the contract?
• Was there anything done that did not meet the satisfaction of the homeowner and if so, was it corrected without any problem?
• What about the punch list? Were all problems with the finish work quickly resolved?
• Have you had any major problems with the house during the time you've been occupying it? If there has been a problem, was the builder efficient in answering your calls and following up with you?
•  If there were any problems, were they fixed promptly and properly?
• How was the builder during the warranty period?
• Would they build with the builder again?
• Are they happy with their home?
• Were there any surprises during the process?