Choosing a Home Builder
Choosing the right home builder is the most important step in the entire home building process. Building a home can take anywhere from 4-6 months (in some cases longer) so when choosing your home builder keep in mind that you will be spending quite a lot of time with them. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right builder for your new home.
The first thing that you should do is make a list of possible builders. If you have lived in the area for awhile then you might already have a pretty good idea of who you want to build your new home, but if you are new to the area, you might have to do a little more research. Local real estate agents are great resources. Many agents who have been in the business for a while have developed relationships with different builders. They will be very helpful in helping your narrow down your list!
Do your homework. Shop around and ask the tough questions. You want to feel confident in your decision, as well comfortable with all parties involved. Visiting a builders recent communities and model homes is the best way to get an overall taste of the type homes that they build. This will also give you the opportunity to decide if the homes are visually appealing to you, and if you can see you and your family living there. Be sure to stop into the models and speak with the on-site sales agents.
Make sure to specifically define your needs: This also fits with the do your homework part. It is important to have good communication when first speaking with a potential home builder. What size home are you looking to build, what is your price range, and what type of home are you looking for? If you are a first time home buyer, there is a good chance that a builder who specializes in multi-million dollar homes might not be the best builder for you.
Experience Matters. How long has this home builder been in business? Experience matters when it comes to building something as important and expensive as a home. Also make sure to verify that the builder is licensed and insured. Not every state or area requires builders to be licensed.
What type of warranty program do they offer? One of the top advantages of new construction is that your home itself and most of the products, systems, and components it contains are brand new and under warranty. Also look for a structural warranty of 10 years or longer on the home itself.
