What to Look for in a Custom Home Builder

January 29, 2018

Finding a first home is a momentous occasion for homeowners, but building it is even more so. Custom homes mean no settling for less than your dream home and having no need to fret about previous structural complications. But, in the beginning, it can seem like a daunting process.

People often get bogged down with the details of building a custom home. Having to coordinate contractors and services takes a toll on what should be a rewarding experience. However, working with the right custom home builder can make the whole process much simpler. All you have to do is find the right one.

Here’s what to look for in a custom home builder:

What Kind of Home Builder Do You Need?

The type of project you have will dictate the type of home builder you need. Do you already have an architect? Are you looking for someone to help build your home from scratch? The answer will show you which direction to go.

1. Builder Only

If you already have an architect for your project, most custom home builders can make it a reality. Finding a builder that can work well with your architect is important to help avoid any potential headaches down the line.

2. Design and Build

Harder to find than build-only companies, a Design-Build home builder will handle the entire process for you, taking almost all of the stress out of building your new home. You won’t have to worry about coordinating contractors or services, and can sit back and relax while your dream home is built. These companies will communicate with you closely throughout the process and keep you informed on updates and timelines.

Reviews and Reputation

Building your dream home places a significant amount of trust in the company you choose. If you’ve found a company and are ready to make the call, check online first. Their reputation may precede them.

1. Start with Online Reviews

Online reviews have quickly become one of the largest deciding factors when researching products. In fact, 93% of consumers consider reviews influential when shopping online for an unfamiliar brand.

A simple Google search of the company may give you an inkling of their value. For a complete picture, however, check Facebook, Yelp, Houzz, and, of course, Google, for reviews. Diversifying your review sources can very quickly become critical to forming a well-rounded opinion.

While you peruse reviews, keep in mind that some people will heavily criticize certain aspects of companies that others might praise. Read the text, and determine if responses are useful for you. Take a look at how the company responds to reviews and get an idea about their processes. Remember: as influential as reviews can be, they’re still opinions. Take some with a grain of salt while undergoing your search.

2. Ask for References or Testimonials

Any company with value will provide references or testimonials as proof of their good work. You can find out if references are available by checking the company’s website or by giving them a call. When speaking with a reference, ask them questions about the builder, and be as thorough as you need to be. After all, it’s your home at stake.

Companies often display testimonials from happy clients and their experiences to give merit to their business. Check the company in question for testimonials. If they have them, great! If they’re glowing reviews and peppered with praise, even better!.

3. Check Their Portfolio

To get a good feel for a company’s work, check for a portfolio. If they don’t have one, they may not be as forthcoming as you thought. A home builder that’s not proud of the homes they’ve built might not be worth the call.

If the builder does have a portfolio, make sure it’s robust. Look out for a variety of styles and materials to make sure they’ll be able to complete what you want, how you want it. If the company boasts many rich, sprawling homes using quality materials, they deserve your attention.

Don’t Settle

It’s your dream home, so don’t settle for a builder you don’t trust. If you need further information or are interested in building your own home, give Custom Home Group a call at (717) 284-4090 or contact a friendly representative today.