The decision to build a custom home is one of the most important ones you’ll ever make. Your new home is where you’ll make memories and welcome family and friends for years – even decades – to come.
Before you choose a custom home builder, it’s essential to do your research to find a builder that’s reputable, established, and above all, puts you first.
So what’s the difference between a good home builder and the very best home builder? We’ve come up with the answers below. Remember: don’t settle when it comes to building your custom home. The very best home builders will not only customize your new house, but they’ll deliver unparalleled customer service as well.
Top traits of a great custom home builder
You come first. Always. Your custom home builder should be an excellent listener who considers your needs and starts from there. After all, building a house is as much about helping you fulfill a lifelong dream as it is about crafting an amazing home.
They’ve got a great reputation. Choose a custom home builder with a proven track record for excellence. In fact, the more established the home builder, the better. Make sure to read reviews, and ask to see homes by the builder you’re considering in your neighborhood of choice. If they’re taking part in a custom home show like Homearama, make sure to tour their featured property.
They’re design-forward. The best custom home builders aren’t just great at spotting new trends, they are trend setters. While it’s incredibly important to construct a well-built home that will last for generations, it’s key to work with a builder who also understands interior design so they can create a home that’s beautiful on the inside as well.
They value continual education. Custom home building is constantly evolving. The best home builders go beyond the state requirements for education by attending conferences and builder shows. And the best builders encourage their team to continue to broader their skills – and give them the tools to do so.
They’re green. It used to be that having a LEED certified home builder was a bonus. Not anymore. Today’s best custom home builders are committed to building homes that are energy-efficient and healthier for your family and the planet.
Make sure your home builder is serious about using better building materials, conserving water and improving indoor air quality through green building.
They’re excellent communicators. When the plan to build your custom home finally becomes a reality, you’re going to want your home builder’s number on speed dial. So it goes without saying you’ll want to choose one who will pick up when you call – or call you back promptly.
The very best custom home builders are transparent. They’ll give you a reasonable timeline for job completion, a comprehensive estimate of costs, and they’ll explain to you their building methods and procedures and why they choose some materials over others.
We’ve all heard terrible stories of contractors who have left jobs unfinished, cut corners, and surprised clients with an outrageous bill. Your custom home builder should be the opposite. Again, this comes back to putting people first.
They offer a warranty. A custom built home is a major investment. Always choose a new home builder with a great warranty, so you can rest easy knowing that, even after your home is finished and you’re all moved in, you’ll have support when a repair arises. When a custom home builder offers a great warranty, it’s a sign they they stand by their work, and that they’re committed to serving you long after they hand you the keys.
