Top 3 Ways to Help Find the Right Builder for Your New Home

All contractors are not created equal. That may seem an obvious statement; however there is more truth, and more considerations involved than you may realize. When you decide to build a new home, one of the most important decisions you can make is deciding the right contractor for the job. Do you trust them? Do they have a good reputation? What are their specialties? What is their experience? Do they have a portfolio to show you? Do they care about your needs? Will they work with you? There are so many questions such as these that ideally you have answers to before making a decision. Unfortunately, finding the right builder is not always easy, but there are some things you can do to assist you in the process. Here are the top three ways to help choose the best builder for your new home construction.

Number One: Referrals Are Extremely Valuable

Many businesses in any field rely on the referral to be successful. This is especially true in the construction business. As a customer, you want to know which builders have experience and have already proven themselves with people you know and trust. Friends and family are valuable resources, as well as the local builders association. Make sure you talk with people who have used the builder’s services in the past. Finding reviews on the internet can be helpful, but a true referral from an acquaintance or professional will provide more detail.

Number Two: Don’t Follow Your First Emotions

It can be easy, especially for those building a home for the first time, to speak with a builder and be so excited about the home and all their wonderful promises that they fail to continue looking around. Don’t let your excitement and other feelings lead you into a contract with the first builder. It may be that that first builder you were so excited about is the builder you choose in the end, but check out your options and speak with other builders as well. If nothing else, it will at least solidify your choice, but is may also save you from a grave mistake.

Number Three: Watch for Warning Signs

It’s not likely that a builder will sit down with you in an interview and explain how they are a poor builder. That is why you have to be keenly aware of any signs that may indicate a problem. Below are some of the largest red flags that prospective families may experience and should be wary of:

• A Significantly Lower Bid than Others: Of course you want the best price, but the lowest cost, especially when it is significantly lower than other bids may indicate the builder uses poor quality materials or cutting corners. Both can be disastrous.
• A Demand for a Significant Up-Front Payment: If the builder requires you to pay anything over a third of the total cost up front, it could be a sign of a cash flow problem that may stall construction. Or worse, may not finish it leaving you in the lurch.
• A Demand for a Cash Only Payment: If a builder will only accept payment in cash, it may be a sign that they are not on the level.
• A Builder without A Home: If the builder does not have a physical address, or simply showed up to bid because they happen to have a crew in the area, think twice. It could mean something is not right.

Progressive Builders Is Here For You!

Progressive Builders is dedicated to partnering with you every step of the home building process to ensure that your new home will accommodate your desires and will meet the needs of your family and lifestyle. We also can assist you in finding the right floor plan, constructing your home with a focus on quality, and all at an outstanding value. With over 20 years of experience we’ve built a reputation across the Twin Cities metro area and beyond and are committed to continuing that level of excellence for your new home construction project. We have a number of customizable home plans to suit your needs and several lots available in neighborhoods across the Metro. We invite you to contact us today for more information.