5 Qualities to Look for in a Custom Home Builder
For most people, building a custom home is a once-in-a-lifetime investment. Selecting the right builder to manage such an important project requires very careful consideration. Here are 5 qualities we believe are crucial to look for when choosing the right team to build your custom home.
1. Experience + Expertise
One of the most important qualities to look for in a custom home builder is experience. Building a new home is a complex, multi-layered process that demands a deep understanding of construction techniques, design and project management. An experienced builder will be your guide for the entire project, anticipating potential threats and suggesting efficient solutions. A custom home is not the place to gamble or cut corners when it comes to your preferred builder.
2. Communication
Transparent, honest and open communication is paramount when selecting your preferred builder, and as a client, this quality should be displayed from your first meeting. Good communication is the single most important factor for a successful project and is the most frequently referenced quality our clients look for in a partner. Building a custom home is a long-term commitment, so it is imperative that you have a trusting relationship with your selected team.
3. Details
As we mentioned, building a custom home is a complex process involving thousands of small steps from breaking ground to completion. Attention to detail is vital in ensuring that no element is overlooked. Your builder should be the eyes and ears of the project, anticipating every step and managing field teams and trade partners to ensure correct execution. At Durham Construction, high quality and attention to every detail are what sets us apart from other builders. We are not satisfied until every element of the project is completed to the highest standard.
4. Problem-Solving
It is not a matter of if challenges will arise during a custom home build, but when, and It is the job of your builder to confront these challenges immediately and calmly. The way in which inevitable issues are handled can be the difference between a minor hiccup and a major setback. Ask your potential builder how they have handled problems in the past. You should feel secure in their ability to proactively navigate any unforeseen circumstances with a cool head and a focus on the best solution with the least impact.
5. Reputation + References
Feedback from past clients is a fantastic way to get first-hand knowledge of the full experience of working with a specific builder for your custom home. A past client will have honest insight and will be equipped to answer all of your questions on the process. Make sure to ask your potential builder for a list of references and consider your questions carefully. Use Google reviews as another excellent source of feedback to assist in your decision-making process. A good builder should be enthusiastic about sharing their references and reviews with you.
Conclusion
The importance of the right builder for your custom home project cannot be understated. Look for experience, great communication skills, a focus on the details, a proactive and calm problem solver, and a company with a rock-solid reputation. Keeping these five qualities in mind will exponentially increase your chances for a well-executed, enjoyable project that exceeds your expectations.