Getting started on a custom home building project can be incredibly stressful without the right preparation or team to guide you through the process. Not only is it critical for clients to choose a builder they can trust, but it’s also imperative that they understand what they can expect from the custom home build process so they can ensure a stress-free experience. When working with your custom home builder, consider the following 10 tips to help make the process go as smoothly as possible!
Tops Tips for Working with a Custom Home Builder
Choose a Trustworthy Builder
Finding the right builder to meet your unique needs is essential. Not only should your custom home builder be experienced, but they should have a stellar reputation to back their building expertise. Compile a list of potential builders in the area and be sure to thoroughly research each one to determine whether or not they are the right fit for your project. Take time to visit some of the builder’s completed projects and speak with their team about their homes and building experience. Be sure to research the following when putting together your list of prospective custom home builders:
- Building credentials
- Financial strength
- Vendor/subcontractor relationships
Ask lots of questions so you can confirm whether or not the builder is the best one for the job at hand.
Know Your Budget Limits
Before meeting with your custom home builder to discuss your project, you’ll need to know exactly how much you’re willing to spend so they can best assist you. It’s a good idea to research how much similar projects in your region cost so you can plan accordingly for your build. You’ll also need to understand how you’ll finance the cost of your custom home before getting started. By defining your budget before your initial meeting, you’ll be able to provide your builder with a strong starting point so they can provide you with affordable solutions. Plus, you’ll avoid sticker shock and disappointment by setting realistic cost expectations from the very beginning.
Understand the Fine Print
During your meeting with your selected home builder, you’ll cover many individual details related to your project. It’s critical that you and your family fully understand the fine print before signing any documentation. Review all fees related to the process and come prepared with any clarifying questions you may need to ask your contractor before moving forward with the build. The best way to avoid disappointment in your build is understanding fully what you’re signing up for from day one!
Identify a Floor Plan
Probably one of the most important considerations for your custom home build is the floor plan. Take time to consider what’s most important to you in terms of how the rooms in your new home will be laid out. Custom floor plans might not always be the best solution, so be sure to discuss with your builder for any guidance they might be able to provide. A great home builder will be able to offer a few different options, which you can then further personalize to suit your exact needs.
Build for the Future
As you think about the floor plan and design features of your home, it’s important to consider how your needs will change over time. Ask yourself the following questions when determining the final details of your build:
- Am I planning to add to my family?
- Will I run a business from my home?
- Is this my retirement home?
- Will my accessibility/mobility change in the next ten years?
Depending on how you answered these questions, you may need to reconsider your floor plan. Consult with your home builder to discuss possible solutions to any concerns you may have about future life in your new home.
Create Your Must-Have List
The floor plan is one thing, but there’s a lot more to your custom home build than just the way the rooms are laid out. Your home’s entire interior and exterior aesthetic is completely in your control during a custom home building project. This can sometimes be overwhelming, which is why it’s important that you have a trustworthy builder who you can rely on for expert guidance throughout the design and build process. In addition to your builder’s guidance, it’s helpful to create a list of the designs and features you absolutely can’t live without to ensure they’re incorporated into the final project.
Be Realistic About Delays
Especially in light of recent supply chain delays and the soaring costs of materials, delays are to be expected during your custom home building project. Even without these circumstances, things like bad weather, scheduling mix-ups, and other uncontrollable surprises can cause significant setbacks for your project. Rather than getting upset about these inconveniences, learn to accept them as part of the process and plan accordingly. This way, you aren’t left without a place to live or keep your personal belongings if your construction schedule gets thrown off by the unexpected.
Get Everything in Writing
In order to decrease the likelihood of miscommunications impacting the final product of your custom home, it’s important to get everything in writing. This is especially important when it comes to your list of must-have features as well as your floor plan. Carefully outline everything you wish to have in your home and ensure that both you and your builder fully understand what’s expected. Include these items as part of your contract and outline all expectations and responsibilities clearly.
Create an Inspection List
At long last, your custom home is complete. Before you grab the keys to your new home and bid adieu to your builders, be sure you’ve performed a final walkthrough with the crew. Create a final inspection list of the most important details before visiting your new home, examining each during your final walkthrough. If there are any items that need to be remedied, bring these to your builder’s attention and refer to your contract to resolve any disputes over what was originally agreed upon. Your builder should always make good on any promises that were made and not kept!
Hire Lee Builders as Your Custom Home Builder!
When you’re seeking a custom home builder to create your dream home, Lee Builders has the crew you need to get the job done right. Our personalized approach ensure that each build is completed to your exact specifications. Each of our custom homebuilding projects is completed in a timely manner, with our builders clearly communicating with you on progress and developments every step of the way. Allow our team to make your dream home a reality by scheduling a consultation with our custom home builders today!
