The best advice you can get about building a new home is to REALLY check a builder’s references.
The things that these builders won’t want you to hear are “That builder…”
1. Was never around…
Tip: Visit actual job sites (without the builder) to see how much supervision is really happening.
The level of supervision by the builder is directly related to quality control. If the builder wasn’t around to supervise the crew or subcontractors, it could lead to delays or shoddy construction. Subcontractors may install something in the wrong place or use the wrong materials.
2. Missed every deadline by at least 3 weeks…
In reality, it will take longer to build a home than you originally planned – Mother Nature can interfere with construction and have a hand in unforeseen materials shortages.
However, poor planning on the builder’s part that leads to longer delays includes materials not ordered, and not enough supervision of subcontractors.
If you call the suppliers who deal with the builder, you can find out about any delays that may occur because of late or missing payments.
3. Used inferior subcontractors…
In this rapidly growing building market it’s easy for a builder to over-commit – this leads to using the subcontractors that are available – or a 2nd crew who may have less experience – or may be made up of temporary workers.
As a result, there may be time delays and cost overruns as they learn their trade on your new home.
One way to avoid this problem is have them list their subcontractors in the bid – and check the references on those subcontractors.
4. Used inferior materials…
Identifying the suppliers that your builder uses gives you an impression of his standard of quality.
Ask for a list of your builder’s suppliers, and then check with those suppliers to verify the relationship.
5. Wouldn’t listen…
Building seems to be the last bastion of male chauvinism and you still find those builders or subcontractors who won’t “take their orders from women”.
This is a real problem in principle, and practically, because both women and men are the purchasers of a home, and frequently decisions need to be made by the person who is available to make them.
A discussion with previous customers will clarify how everyone in the family was treated.
6. Makes his profits from change orders…
Odds are that something will need to be changed during construction. However, some builders nit-pick a design and charge you for each change that they make.
How to limit costs:
Make detailed decisions prior to construction. Have the builder review the designer’s
plans with you and give. recommendations about the reality of acquiring the materials
or implementing the design.
Summary: How to Vet a Builder
- ✅ Supervision: Visit job sites unannounced.
- ✅ Deadlines: Call suppliers to check payment history.
- ✅ Subcontractors: Request a list of subs in the bid.
- ✅ Materials: Verify accounts with high-quality suppliers.
- ✅ Respect: Talk to previous clients about communication.
- ✅ Change Orders: Finalize detailed decisions before building.
Checking these six areas before you sign a contract can save you months of delays and thousands of dollars in hidden costs.
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