8 Things to Look for in a Custom Home Builder
No matter what size custom home you’re looking to build, having a knowledgeable, licensed, credentialed contractor for the job is a must. Prior to reaching out to your custom home builder, be sure you know how much home you can afford. Once you’re prepared with these details, begin reviewing contractors for the following key characteristics:
Specialization
Most home building professionals specialize in a specific price range or structure type. From custom cottages to seaside chateaus, it’s best to select a custom home builder with a portfolio that features the type of house you hope to call home. Finding a custom home builder who specializes in the type of aesthetic you’re hoping to achieve will make the process much easier for everyone involved.
Must-Haves
In addition to finding a builder that’s capable of constructing the type of home you want, it’s also imperative that you clearly communicate your must-have list of desired features. While a builder might have experience in building a certain type of home, they may not have the customization capabilities to include the personal touches that will make your home truly unique. Discuss the more challenging elements of your desired design upfront so you can be sure that the team you select is qualified for the job.
Experience
Obviously, you don’t want to hire a construction crew that’s only been in business for a short time. Ask how long the company has been in business and how many custom homes they’ve built during that time. Be sure to review their portfolio carefully, and don’t be shy about requesting examples of their work if they don’t have an online portfolio available to view.
Reviews
One of the strongest indications of an excellent custom home builder is the number of positive customer reviews they’ve received. Not only does this illustrate the company’s ability to complete projects to their clients’ expectations, but these reviews will also tell a story about how the team interacts with their customers throughout the entire custom home building process. While these reviews might not always provide a true representation of the quality of work, it helps to have an opinion from those who have first-hand experience with the team to help inform your decision.
Credentials
Before you decide anything, it’s important that you request proof of licenses and insurance information from the team with whom you hope to work. Depending on the size and scope of work involved in your project, these licensing requirements may vary. Be sure to check your state licensing requirements and verify that the team you’ve chosen has the proper credentials necessary for constructing your home. It’s also a good idea to call the issuing insurance agency to verify that the information provided is true and accurate.
Warranties
An insured custom home builder should provide home warranties on the projects they complete. This helps protect future homeowners should their custom home building company ever go out of business and they need work done on their structure. Make sure that the builder you choose will transfer any warranties you have on fixtures and appliances that were purchased as part of the building agreement as well.
Touring
Some companies may offer tours of their existing properties to customers considering them for their own project. Ask your custom home builder if you’re able to take a tour through one of their most recent builds to get a feel for the workmanship, quality, and safety precautions seen in a typical build.
Relationships
Custom home builders must rely on a broad network of lenders, real estate agents, suppliers, and other industry professionals in order to sustain their business. It’s a good idea to call around to ask local lenders, real estate agents, and building suppliers about the relationship they have with your selected team. Positive professional relationships are a strong sign that the custom home builder you chose is the right one for the job.
Find Your Custom Contractor at Lee Builders!
If you’re searching for a custom home builder in South Carolina, Lee Builders has the professional team you need to bring your unique vision to life. For more than 20 years, our team has delivered the truly custom solutions that Georgia and South Carolina residents need to achieve dream home status. With our years of industry expertise, unparalleled 10-year warranty, and hawk-like attention to detail, we are confident in our team’s ability to construct the home you always envisioned. Contact our custom home builders to receive a personalized quote today!
