How To Choose the Best Custom Builder in Charleston:
High-end home builders know that the initial meeting is about earning your trust.
A big factor in choosing a luxury home builder is the comfort level that a client has with the first person they meet from the company. Professional custom home builders understand this, and they make sure to act in ways that earn their clients’ trust, starting with that first meeting. The initial visit shouldn’t be about dollars and cents but about finding whether the two of you are a good fit!
When interviewing builders, clarity about their attitudes and actions will help a homeowner choose someone they can work well with. Before signing anything, ask the following questions:
Does the builder…
1. Show up like a professional?
Showing up on time, prepared and organized, is a great place to start. Have they researched or visited the building lot? Do they demonstrate experience working in the community? Are they prepared with questions to learn more about the project? Do they listen well and take good notes? Aside from building a great house, these are signs of a professional who runs a real business and pays attention to detail.
2. Play by the rules?
High-end home builders know that the homeowner wants assurance that whoever builds their house will do it right, and that includes knowing they will follow the relevant laws and regulations. Written contracts and specifications, detailed budgets, as well as proof of the necessary permits, licensing, and insurance, are signs of a conscientious company that doesn’t cut corners.
3. Show emotional intelligence?
A custom home-building project can either be an emotional roller coaster or an enjoyable ride. A homeowner will naturally feel more confident in a builder who works to make it more of the latter. Custom home builders help their clients understand the ups and downs of building a home.
4. Take schedules seriously?
Homeowners who know what will happen, and when, during construction suffer a lot less anxiety. That’s why they will have more confidence in a builder who clearly communicates the overall job schedule as well as the approximate timetable for each of the major phases of construction.
5. Keep you informed?
Great builders also know that the homeowner will feel more secure, and the job will go more smoothy, if there is a regular update as well as a forum for questions and concerns. While the timing of these emails or meetings depends on the builder and the project, they’re often scheduled at the end of key job phases, such as framing and electrical or mechanical. The better the communication, the better the experience will be.
6. Have clear change order policies?
Changes have a reputation for breeding anxiety and conflict, but that can be limited if everyone knows what to expect. Custom home builders prepare their client up front to minimize changes, and make sure to communicate what change orders will cost, as well as any resulting adjustments in the job schedule.
7. Offer references?
The most reputable builders will provide references to past clients. If some of those clients are happy to show you their completed home, that’s even better- it’s a sign that they really like and trust the builder.
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