For most people, building a new home is a process they’ll experience once in a lifetime. It’s a huge investment in time and money. To help you choose the right homebuilder, here are 15 questions to ask of each one you interview.

1. How long have you been in business? It takes time and experience to develop a successful business model. Don’t let yourself be a trial-and-error case for a custom homebuilder who hasn’t yet smoothed out the rough edges.
2. Do you have a valid contractor’s license for this state? Every state has specific contractor’s licensing requirements. Don’t hire anyone who hasn’t obtained the proper license.
3. How many homes have you built? Pay for experience, not practice.
4. How many homes do you build each year? The answer will offer insight into how much demand this builder has, as well as the ability to complete multiple custom homes at once.
5. Have you built a home like this before (size and style)? Building a small ranch has different considerations than building a larger, multi-story home. Discuss your design preferences and ask about the builder’s experience with your choice.
6. Will you require that I choose my design plan from you or can I provide my own? You may or may not have your own home design plans, but it’s worth knowing what your builder is willing to accept.
7. Can I talk to some of your homeowners? Get references. Then ask the homeowners about their experience throughout the process. How has the builder responded after closing? Was anything left undone?
8. What is your anticipated start and completion date? There are always best- and worst-case scenarios when it comes to building a new home. Talk about production scheduling and be clear about potential obstacles that could throw off your move-in date.
9. Who will supervise the construction of my home? You should ask who will be managing the day-to-day construction of your home and what is the predetermined meeting schedule that will be used during construction.
10. How often will I get updates? Who will be my point of contact during the construction process? Strong communication is essential to a positive experience with your homebuilder. You shouldn’t have to chase down someone for an update. Does your builder have a designated customer service representative to support you through the build process and after?
11. What do you include as standard features, and what do you consider as upgrades? Is your builder part of an Energy Certification Program? No one likes surprises. Ask for a list of features that will be included in your custom home. Energy Efficiency is an important aspect to be included in your new home because it directly ties to the amount you pay in utilities.
12. Can I make changes and upgrades once construction has begun? Changing your mind is your prerogative, but at what cost? Discuss the parameters of construction and when it’s advisable not to make any more changes. Also does your builder have construction software to document these changes, as well as other communication throughout the build process? Verbal agreements are sometimes not enough and you do not want your builder to miss an important change.
13. Can I visit the job site during construction? Will I be allowed to tour it while building is underway? How can you resist seeing your home under construction? Ask your prospective custom homebuilder whether you’re welcomed on-site and what restrictions will be enforced when you do.
14. What warranty do you include with the home? A builder’s warranty usually includes a guarantee on the structure itself—workmanship and materials, like drywall, roofing, windows, doors, and paint. The construction as well as the home’s electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems should be included. Major appliances are covered by the manufacturer, not the builder. Ask your custom homebuilder about the details of the company’s home warranty so you know what’s covered, and for how long. Ask if they provide an extended, transferrable structural warranty.
15. Is your builder a member of the local Home Builders Association? HBA’s require that their members follow a code of ethics. Is your builder a Certified Professional Builder? Not only does this designation require that the builder is a member of their local, state, and national HBA, but it also requires that the builder take ongoing continuing education courses throughout the year.

Choosing your custom homebuilder is a major decision. Do your research. Ask all the questions you need in order to feel comfortable and confident that you are choosing the right builder.

Feel free to contact Authentic Custom Homes to talk about your new home. We’ll take the time to talk to you about every detail!