Important Questions to Ask Your Custom Home Builder

Are You Licensed, Bonded and Insured?

Different states have different requirements for builders. Regardless, you should always ask about the licenses and insurance possessed by your potential builder. You are always better to be safe than sorry. Because almost all builders use subcontractors, you should ask how they ensure their subcontractors are also meeting similar requirements.

How Long Have You Been Building Custom Homes?

The experience of your custom home builder is important. Having an experienced, knowledgeable partner for your construction project can make all the difference. When interviewing potential builders, don’t be afraid to ask about their experience. How long have they been building? What kind of homes have they built? This is your project and you deserve the right builder.

Do You Have Examples of Completed Work? Reviews From Clients?

One of the best ways to see if a builder is a good fit for your project is to look at their previous work. Some builders might have a for sale model to tour, but many others will have a portfolio of completed projects. Take the time to look through those projects and observe the quality and style of work done by your builder. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for reviews from previous clients. These may give you insight into the process of working with the builder and a good one should be happy to provide them.

What Will the Communication Process Be Like During My Project?

Knowing how your builder will communicate with you during the project is incredibly important. How do you ask questions? How long will it take to respond? Who will be your point of contact? All of these questions are bound to come up during a construction project. So, instead of waiting, why not ask as you interview your potential builder? Get the details of their communication process and set yourself up for success.

How Closely Do You Work With Architects/Designers?

Building a custom home is a collaborative process. Many different people are involved including you, an architect, a builder, and potentially others such as a landscape or interior designer. When interviewing a potential builder it’s important to find someone who can work as part of a collaborative team. Every builder’s process is different. Take the time to learn about this for yourself and make sure your project is getting the right team.

How Do You Determine the Price of My Build?

Different home builders have different methods of calculating estimates as well as determining the actual price for overall work. A top-level estimate may take only a week or less to complete. More detailed budgets could take up to a month. When interviewing potential builders you should ask how they determine their pricing. Maybe they use a fixed price model. Others may have more fluctuating costs contracts sometimes called “cost-plus” contracts. Knowing can save you money in the long run. Also, don’t be afraid to ask how accurate their budget is and what the odds of going over budget are, you should know.

Is There a Warranty Period on Your Work?

Asking about the warranty period on your home construction is one of the most commonly overlooked items. After you move in, there may be the need for some repairs. Knowing not only what the warranty period is but also what is covered under it will give you an idea of how things work after construction is completed. Warranty terms often vary, so make certain you are finding a builder whose terms match your needs.

Your Custom Home Building Partner in Charleston, SC

At Stono Construction, we’re passionate builders. Partnering with you on your custom home-building project is our way of serving our friends and neighbors in our community. When you want to build your dream home, you shouldn’t be left in the dark or worried about the process. That’s why our team truly partners with you, creating open lines of communication and making sure you understand the process from start to finish.

If you’re interested in building a custom home or have questions about the process, we’re happy to answer them. Contact us today.