CusCustom home builders build differently, applying the experience and expertise they possess to build dream homes for their clients. However, custom houses are not easy to build, and must go through a meticulous selection of materials and labor process.tom home builders are built differently. That’s because they have the experience and the expertise to make people’s dream homes come true. Custom houses are not ordinary and they must go through a considerable amount of selection and labor process to build.
Building a custom home can take 12 to 14 months, so it is important to choose the right builder. Just like any relationship, honest and sincere communication with your contractor is critical. But one has to ask, is building a custom home worth the investment?
First things first, let’s look at the responsibilities of the builders.
Responsibilities of Custom Home Builders
A custom home builder’s responsibilities to their homeowner client include providing support as they collaborate with their contracted design team to ensure the design of the custom home meets a realistic budget. Both parties can also share best practices with each other during the construction of the home.
Here are some other responsibilities a builder has when working on a custom home:
- The builder holds the contract for the construction of the home as well as other activities like tracking costs, submitting payment requests for the designer or bank approval, preparing estimates, collecting funds for every approved change order, and providing lien release waivers for every work completion.
- They manage all subcontractors with the design process and work with the architect and the homeowner.
- They also act as liaison between the building inspectors, the design team, and the governing authority.
- They will manage and collect inspections, approvals, and certificates of occupancy.
- The builder is also liable to the architect for any deficiencies. If any problem arises, they will work with subcontractors to resolve all issues and deliver the house to the owners.
- Lastly, the builder shall collect discrepancies noted in the homeowner’s list and will educate the homeowner concerning the operation and maintenance of their new home.
What to Look for When Hiring Custom Home Builders
The best custom home builders have a good reputation in the construction industry, and possess extensive expertise in construction management. They also have an established portfolio of custom homes they have built over the years according to their clients’ personal style, vision, desires, and needs.
Take note of these following factors you should consider when looking to be in contract with a custom home builder:
- Portfolio of projects similar to yours with regard to design and size
- The number of construction projects they manage at a given time
- Company values
- Listening and communication skills
- Time and organizational management skills
- Referrals and testimonials from previous clients
Things to Prepare Before Talking to Custom Home Builders
Before talking to your contractor to start the construction of your dream house, there are several things you need to prepare. As mentioned, listening and communication skills are crucial when working with a custom home builder.
Here are some important questions your contractor will ask you:
- Are you willing to work together with the architect during design planning?
- Do you have a proposal to offer that would determine the real cost of the home?
- What are the terms of compensation concerning pre-construction services?
- Are you able to build the design and style of the house?
- Who will supervise the project regularly?
- Are you available whenever we need to talk to you?
- How long have you been working with subcontractors?
- How long will you be able to finish the construction?
- Do you offer a warranty after the completion of the structure?
Interview Questions to Ask a Custom Home Builder
A builder must understand a client’s needs and preferences, and how they respond to their client’s questions will determine their level of interest in the project. Here are some key questions to ask the builder before you consider hiring them:
- Are you willing to work together with the architect during design planning?
- Do you have a proposal to offer that would determine the real cost of the home?
- What are the terms of compensation concerning pre-construction services?
- Are you able to build the design and style of the house?
- Who will supervise the project regularly?
- Are you available whenever we need to talk to you?
- How long have you been working with subcontractors?
- How long will you be able to finish the construction?
- Do you offer a warranty after the completion of the structure?
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right custom home builder is the most important factor in building your dream home. They must have ample experience working in the custom home construction industry. Make sure they have good listening and communication skills, as this will directly impact the overall progress of the construction project.
Do you have questions about your home construction needs? Contact us today so we can assist you in any way we can.
