Finding the right home builder for your custom home is a challenging journey. Your home builder makes the difference between a smooth, enjoyable build process and a struggle. When it comes to your future home, you need someone who you can trust.
Vetting your future home builder is an important step in determining the right builder for you. In your conversation, make sure you focus on the factors that make the most difference between builders.
Here are 13 essential questions to ask home builders when building a custom home.
What is a realistic timeline to complete my custom home?
When interviewing potential candidates to handle your custom home build, ask about a realistic timeline for your custom home. They should give you a rough estimate of what you can expect from the process.
Different states have different permitting timelines that may be unavoidable.
Additionally, some builders have current projects that would delay work on your home, extending the time frame. If building your home quickly is a priority, keep this in mind.
Can you build on my lot? Do you have lots available?
If you already purchased land for your home, let prospective builders know. Only some builders will take a project on land brought by the customer.
On the other hand, if you are in the market for land, builders usually offer a stock of lots. Ask about the size and location of the lots available to build on.
Do you create and build custom floor plans?
There are many different levels of builder customization.
A custom builder offers a set of floor plans with room for some alterations and customization options.
However, a fully custom home builder has an in-house architect or draftsman available to create unique floor plans for their customers.
Make sure the level of customization you want matches up with the builder under consideration.
How much can I customize my home?
Beyond your floor plan, you customize your home with your color, texture, and material choices. Although your project is custom, some builders limit the range of selections you make to the style of your home.
Limitations to customization could include a finite number of upgrade options or design packages with pre-set selections. You might find these options satisfactory, but if you want a completely customized experience, make sure the builder provides it.
Do you have a designer to help me make selections for my home?
In a custom home, you select everything within the home. This checklist of selections ranges from the flooring across the house to the backsplash tile in the third bathroom.
A good custom home builder provides a trained, experienced designer to guide you through your style and selections.
What are the standard features you offer?
Custom builders usually offer a set of features automatically included in every home they build. Any feature you want to be included in your home outside the list is considered an upgrade, which comes with additional cost.
Some builders limit their standard features to sell more upgrades, and a more comprehensive list is usually a better option.
What goes into determining the final price of my home? What’s your average cost per square foot?
Additional surprise costs are jarring, especially when building your custom home. Consult with prospective builders on how they determine the final price of your home. This includes verifying what costs are part of the quote.
By asking these questions, you should avoid any unexpected costs at the end of your build.
What is the communication process while my home is under construction?
While your home is under construction, questions, concerns, or changes might arise. Updates and communication are critical, so you need a builder with an open and active communication policy.
Look for a builder who offers a set platform for communication, a designated customer experience coordinator, and frequent home walkthroughs during construction.
Can I request upgrades or make changes after the building process begins?
Generally, the answer is yes, but it’s an important question. Not all builders allow upgrades after the build begins. If your needs change or a new idea arises, flexibility from your builder is a must have.
Can I talk to previous customers or see customer testimonials?
Ask to speak to previous customers or view customer testimonials. Previous customers should talk freely about their experience with the builder, giving you an indication of their reputation.
Is landscaping included?
Landscaping is available from most builders to some degree. Generally, front landscaping, sod, and sprinkler systems are included in your home cost.
Inquire about possible upgrades or additions from your builder. If they offer additional landscaping options, you can roll your landscaping costs into your mortgage.
What is your warranty?
Most builders offer a warranty program, so ask each of your candidates for their policy. A one-year warranty on most home features is standard. Look for extended warranties on the most essential parts of your home, like mechanical and structural features.
Are you offering any buyer incentives right now?
Sometimes builders offer buyer incentives as a bonus to prospective buyers. These incentives usually include free upgrades up to a certain amount or a mortgage rate buydown.
Usually, these incentives are marketed, but asking about the current deals always helps.
Final Thoughts
Building your very own custom home can be an exhilarating process. However, finding an excellent, experienced custom home builder is a massive step in determining how the build will go.
It’s not always easy finding the right builder. However, asking these questions helps ensure you find the right builder for you.
Of course, if you’re in Idaho, Oakmont Custom Homes is a Boise custom home builder that can help you understand exactly what you need to create the home of your dreams. Contact us today to get started!
