You may have bought some open lots, have a property you want to refurbish, or sought out some land for sale in the suburbs. It might be wise to get a home builder to properly create the structure that you want while adhering to building standards and local codes. Before you let them take the reigns, however, there are a few essential questions you should be asking.
1. How many projects have you accomplished?
This question is fundamental, which you should start with before you even get to the nitty-gritty. Even if you’ve perused through a portfolio of a builder’s work, it’s good to get this information from them to see their transparency and gauge whether you can trust their handiwork. After all, some common mistakes made by new home builders can be pretty devastating. They not only hinder construction time but add painful expenditures. Also, many of these mistakes only show up when the home is finished, like poor insulation in the roof and basement walls, leaks in the thermal envelope, mismatched HVAC systems, recessed lights leaking air, and busted duct seams.
2. Are you aware of any community guidelines and regulations on building?
This question is essential, which should be known before any building occurs so that you can avoid unwanted disputes, issues, and, ultimately, fees. Specific communities, especially those that often offer home-and-land packages, come with their own masterplan and regulations on building a home even though you still have leeway on how you want to design your home. By making sure that your builder of choice is aligned with these systems can take away a lot of headaches later on.
3. Do you have warranty offerings?
This question can help you ensure that your money is being spent on suitable quality materials and artistry that will last you a long time. It also promises that should any problems arise that are clearly due to the builder’s work, a guarantee covers you. It usually includes structural defects that can be dangerous for any space with inhabitants. Ask what is specifically covered in their warranty, how long its period covers, and what actions or damages are not included in the package. If your builder can’t guarantee a warranty, it may be best to look elsewhere.
4. What is your building timeline?
This question is not only a gauge of their team’s work ethic but also a practical one that can help you map out your plans for moving in, making changes, and finishing up all the knots you need to be done before you start living in the place. A good pace can ensure that you will see good progress and well-thought-out crafting. When determining the right speed, make sure it doesn’t take too long (within practical reasoning) but also ensure that you are not setting a rushed deadline from either party. Any rushed building often leads to more mishaps later on.
5. Do you practice green building?
Nowadays, this question is just as important to ask to ensure that your home is as energy-efficient and sustainable as possible. It is simply future-proofing for you and your children or any next generation that may one day inherit the land (literally). With excellent energy efficiency in practices, materials, and layouts, you help save the environment and save a lot on expenses with lowered household costs.
Once you’ve got all of these questions out of the way and you are satisfied with the answers you’ve received, you can give the go-ahead so that you can finally start building and eventually living in your dream home.
