Congratulations! You’ve decided to invest in a custom home! Now that you’ve committed to the process, you can start looking for a builder. Choosing the right home builder is arguably the most important step in your home building journey. The builder you select will be responsible for every aspect of creating your dream home, and we want to make sure you get started on the right path. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive list of questions to ask your custom home builder. 

For homeowners building for the first time, the process can feel overwhelming.  Getting the answers to these questions will give you the confidence to move forward through the home building stages. You will receive valuable insight into the builder’s communication style, home design vision, and the understanding of each step involved in building your home. 

Questions to Ask Your Custom Home Builder


Why did you become a custom home builder?

How many years have you been in the custom home building business? In that time, how many homes have you completed?

Are you licensed and insured? Can you provide verification?

Do you offer a new home warranty? If so, what are the specifications?

Can you provide references from previous home buyers? May I contact your references?

Do you have a model that I can tour? If not, do you have a previous client that would allow us to visit their home?

What sets you apart from other home builders?

How custom is your custom home? Am I able to design every aspect or can I only alter existing home plans?

What energy-saving features do your homes offer?

What benefits do your homes offer that I cannot get from another builder?

What are the standard features included in your homes? What upgrades and options can I select from? 

How long will it take to complete my home? 

Who is in charge of my home’s construction? Who is my point of contact? How responsive are they?

What is the preferred method of communication?

How do you handle complications during construction?

If I change my mind on a design plan or upgrade, how do I make changes? At what point in the process can I not make additional changes?

At what point in the process will I know the final price of my home?

Am I able to access my home during construction? If so, do I need to make an appointment first?

What is your inspection process during and after construction?

How are issues addressed after construction is completed?

These questions, while not the only ones to ask, are a great starting point. The answers provided by the builder, and their tone, will give you an idea about how compatible the two of you are. Just like any relationship, the builder-home buyer relationship requires open communication and understanding. 


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