Choosing a builder can be tricky. You want to find someone who's experienced and reputable. Not only that, you want to find someone who you can work with, as you're entrusting this person with your house. In this article, we'll go over several strategies to ensure you can find the best builder that works for you.
The first step to finding a good builder is to look for a builder who has expertise in your area. Not all builders are the same and it's best to work with someone who has experience with similar projects.
Don't just jump on the first builder you find. Get at least three quotes from various builders to ensure you get the best possible deal. Be very specific about what you want so there can be no misunderstanding.
Once you've found a builder you want to work with, do some research:
1) Ask them for references. If they're an established builder, they'll be more than happy to provide references for you.
2) Look them up in the Better Business Bureau. Are there any complaints against this builder?
3) Go to your county office and look up their license. Check to see their liens history. You want to work with someone who doesn't just place lien after lien indiscriminately on their clients.
There are two red flags you should be aware of when you're considering a builder.
If they won't sign a written contract with you, that's an absolute red flag and you should drop that builder immediately.
If your builder won't give you a LAN line phone number to either their office or home phone and insist on just giving you a cell phone number, that's also a big red flag.
Once you've looked around, gotten several quotes and done your research on your builder, you're ready to begin your project. The due diligence you did upfront will save you tons of headaches down the line.
