Questions to Ask Your New Home Builder

When you’re planning to build a new home, it’s an overwhelming process. There are so many things to think about, and it’s hard to know where to start. An important decision you’ll make is who to hire as your home builder. But how do you choose the right one? Here are a few questions to ask.

1. How Long Have You Been in Business?

This is a good question to start with because it gives you a sense of the builder’s experience. A longer track record means they’ve likely had more time to hone their skills.

However, just because a builder has been in business for a long time doesn’t mean they’re the right one for you. Ask about their specific experience in building the type of home you want.

For example, if you’re looking for a custom home builder, they should have a lot of experience with creating unique designs and working with different materials. If you’re interested in green building, make sure the builder is familiar with eco-friendly construction methods.

2. Do You Offer Design-Build Services?

Design-build is where one company oversees both the design and construction of your home. This can be a great option because it means there’s one point of contact for all your questions and concerns. And since the builder is familiar with the entire process, they can often speed things up.

3. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Make sure to ask your builder about their licensing and insurance. A licensed builder means they’ve met specific requirements in terms of training and experience. And insurance protects you in case something goes wrong during the construction process.

4. Do You Have a Portfolio of Past Projects?

A portfolio is a great way to get a sense of the builder’s work. You can see examples of their past projects and get an idea of the level of quality you can expect.

Be sure to ask the builder if they’re willing to provide references as well. References are a great way to hear firsthand about the builder’s experience from someone who’s worked with them before.

5. What Kind of Warranties Do You Offer?

A warranty guarantees that the builder will fix any problems that occur with your home during the construction process. It’s important to ask about the warranties offered by your builder and make sure you understand what’s covered.

6. Are You Familiar with All Roofing Materials?

When it comes to roofing, not all builders are created equal. Make sure your builder is familiar with the type of roofing you want for your home. If you’re interested in a specific material, like slate or tile, be sure to ask if the builder has experience working with it.

Even if you prefer asphalt roofing, you still need to ask. It’s estimated that more than 75% of houses in the United States have asphalt roofs. And here’s why: It’s cost-effective, easy to install, available in various colors, surprisingly durable, and many brands provide warranties up to 40 years.

7. What Are Your Timelines?

One of the most frustrating things about home construction is waiting for it to be finished. That’s why it’s important to ask your builder about their timelines. How long do they anticipate the entire process will take?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, many (33%) new contractor-built single-family residences took 4 – 6 months to finish in 2020. Custom homes, on the other hand, often take much longer. So, it’s important to be clear about your expectations from the beginning.

8. Have You Invested in the Latest Technology?

Building a home is a complex process, and the builders who are keeping up with the latest technology are the ones who will be successful in the long run. Make sure your builder is using the latest software and tools to help them design your home.

According to Softwareconnect.com’s poll, 43% of construction companies spend between 1-2% of their income on software. This is a small investment that shows a company is serious about how they represent themselves online.

Ensure you ask these questions when choosing a new home builder. That way, you stand a better chance of getting a qualified and experienced builder. And remember, it’s always important to get everything in writing, so there are no surprises later on.