3 Simple Ways to Evaluate a Home Builder
 

Home builders use similar tools and materials; however not all professionals are alike when it comes to training and customer service. Building a new home is a significant investment of time and money, so finding a builder whose business approach aligns with your preferences is critical to ensuring the process goes smoothly. 

When you initially meet with a home builder, they will ask you questions about the dream home you want to build. During this time, you should also ask the builder about their professional experience to help determine if they are the right builder for you. Consider asking the following questions to help you vet the builder that works best for your needs.

1. Tell Me About Your Work Experience
You will want to find a builder with experience building homes similar to the one you want. Professional home builders will have examples of floor plans and designs. Ask them to show you what type of work they have completed in the past to ensure their company can deliver what you need. You should also ask if they have or are working toward professional designations, such as a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), which shows that the builder has advanced training in a particular area. .

2. Can You Provide Customer References?
Any high-quality builder should be ready to provide you with names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. If they cannot, consider that a red flag and walk away. When reaching out to those former clients, ask how well the builder followed through on the initial plans, and if the builder met their expectations regarding budget and timing. Remember the most telling question: Would they hire that builder again if they could do it all over?

3. How Will We Communicate During the Home Building Process?
Home builders will do their best to accommodate your communication preferences. But it is always best to establish expectations as early as possible. The frequency (weekly, monthly, as-needed, etc.) and method (phone, text, email) of how you communicate early on with each other will set the tone throughout the building process.

For more information about how to find the right builder to create your dream home, contact Central Washington Home Builders Association at CWHBA.ORG