So you’ve made the decision to build your dream home, which means you’re getting ready to embark on a very challenging yet rewarding expedition. However, depending on the builder you choose your journey could end up being more challenging than necessary.
Here is some useful insider information for you – many custom home and renovation builders are really good at talking the talk, however not all of them can ‘walk the walk’. To make sure you’re a highly informed client, we’ve compiled a list of 9 characteristics you should look for in a high-quality home builder to bring your dream home to life.
1. They Have a Good History
Would you prefer to see a surgeon who has just graduated from medical school or someone who has performed surgeries for over 10 years?
Easy answer, right?
Although a new home builder might work really hard for you, they might not have the necessary experience to handle a big or difficult project. They might not have the ability to manage a large crew yet or be able to get your job done on (or under) budget and on time.
Before you sign a contract, do some research on a couple of local home builders to get a good idea of their history. For each builder you’re considering, find out:
- How long has the company been in business?
- What are their finances like?
- Do they provide quality craftsmanship?
- Can they provide you with references from past clients?
Conducting research in the early stages of the process can help to ensure you don’t hire a builder who is lacking in financial stability or expertise.
2. They Show Up On Time
If your builder can’t even show up to an initial appointment on time, why do you think they’ll start your project on time or even deliver it within the deadline? Whether or not someone is punctual is the basic measure of a person’s time management skills.
The same goes for a business. If your builder is constantly running late, this is a red flag that could cause major drama for you down the track. Punctuality should be linked with quality.
3. They’re Busy
Ask yourself – do you want to meet with a builder who doesn’t have any work on? Or would you prefer a busy, booked-out builder? While each builder should be assessed on a case-by-case basis, a quiet builder can sometimes be a red flag. There’s always the possibility that they’ve just wrapped up a few projects at once, or perhaps they’ve just moved to the area but there may be more serious reasons.
Great builders have great reputations and they generally have plenty of clients waiting for them to get started on their projects. While an open schedule shouldn’t be a red flag on its own, it might be something to look into further.
4. They Answer your Calls
From the very first time you ring your builder, they should take the call and be completely courteous. All good professionals do this to earn your business. Whether or not they answer your follow up calls is the true test. If you’re considering a particular builder, but you’re not 100% sure if they’re the right choice, ask yourself:
- Do they answer your call if you have a couple of questions following your initial meeting?
- Are they prompt about returning your calls if you leave a message?
- Are they happy to chat through ideas?
This can be a great indication of the type of communication you can expect to receive after your job is underway.
5. They’re Honest with You
When conceptualising your dream home, it can be easy to have unrealistic expectations and get carried away. That is when you need your builder to be straight with you. Of course, this should be done in a professional way.
If the time frame is too short or your budget will not cover all your needs and wants, you need to know upfront what the truth is. There are some builders who will tell you what they think you want to hear and say “sure” just to get the job. However, down the road that could lead to upsets and issues.
Interested in a clear and honest process? It should never be hard to find.
6. Customisation is Something They Encourage
High-quality home builders understand that their clients want their new home to have various standard features along with some custom options.
Whether that involves home technology, cabinetry, or the overall floor plan, you should never feel like your builder is trying to force you to choose one option over another. Things like technology are making home building and living easier, and so more customisation should be expected.
7. They Are Energy Conscious
These days, many clients are searching for ways to lower their utility bills and reduce their carbon footprint simultaneously.
You probably feel the same way. So make sure that your builder offers you a good energy package. Find out if an efficient HVAC system is included and what type of insulation they are planning to use. Are they going to install energy-efficient appliances and low-emissivity ENERGY STAR qualified windows?
According to glazier Mark Rogerson, the right windows can save you hundreds of dollars a year. He explains “energy efficiency isn’t just about big ticket items like solar power. Small changes, like installing energy efficient windows, can help reduce power bills as well as reduce noise pollution.”
One of the main benefits of building a new home is being able to make it highly energy-efficient, so ensure that your builder is totally on board with this.
8. They Stand Behind Their Work
A high-quality builder always stands behind their work and continues to be available ongoing. They also offer post-completion services and a substantial warranty. Otherwise, how can you have true peace of mind?
A very good builder stops by a couple of times after you have moved in to ensure that you are still satisfied and is willing to do whatever they can to make any necessary adjustments and fixes.
A skilled builder lets the work speak for itself.
Looking to see examples of quality local building? Check out the Redchip Constructions gallery here.
9. They Have Good Ideas
It’s may be easy to follow a blueprint but having the ability to think on the spot in order to solve a problem is a big asset. It’s always ideal to have a builder who has practical advice, good ideas and the ability to think outside the box.
Building your dream home can be an amazing experience if you select a high-quality builder who can help to ensure that your project runs as smoothly as possible.
