Finding the right luxury custom home builder isn’t easy. The market is awash with mediocre builders advertising themselves as top of the line pros. It means that you need to look deeper and not be swayed by online ads and non-stop PR. Instead of listening to TV ads and newspaper classifieds, make it your duty to personally interview candidates before making a decision.
Of course, you’re allowed to ask as many questions as you deem necessary as you seek to better understand the qualifications of each builder. However, there are five critical questions you must never forget to ask the candidates. These are;
What is your experience?
While every builder was once a new builder, experience cannot be overlooked when selecting a contractor to build your home. New builders have a tendency to make mistakes, which is understandable because in this industry tradesmen become experts on the job. But do you want those mistakes made on your home? No. So, choose a builder that has been in the industry long enough. A simple way of finding out about a builder’s experience is to check how long they have held their General Contractor License.
Are your subcontractors licensed?
Contractors and home builders use a variety of subcontractors including bricklayers, plumbers, roofers, and electricians. The builder must therefore assure you that the subcontractors they will be hiring are both capable and licensed. If possible, ask them to show you the portfolios of these subcontractors so you can also verify their suitability. Check for certifications and licenses in particular. You don’t want to work with non-certified or unlicensed tradesmen because they may expose you to risks.
Do you specialize in my type of home?
This will require you to look at the work the builder normally does and compare it to the type of home you’re hoping to build. Maybe you prefer green constructions and energy efficient structures. If so, you need a builder with expertise and experience in green buildings. If you want a tile roof, you should also select a builder with experience in that area. In other words, some of the buildings the builder has constructed in the past should resemble the type of home you wish to build. Keep in mind that a real custom builder can build any style home your choose.
Can you meet my custom preferences?
The builder you choose should also be able to meet your design preferences. A great custom builder won’t simply provide you with a portfolio of standard floor plans to choose from, but rather will build a home that is specifically designed for your family. If you want to add a deck or modern technology, they will adjust the floor plan to accommodate the changes. If they can’t customize the home as you wish, then it’s better to find a different builder.
How easy will it be to work with this builder?
Custom home building requires constant contact with the builder. This is even more important when building a luxury home. You want to be there all the time, telling the builder how you want various elements of the home to be constructed. Is the builder you’re considering willing to work with you on this? Are they easy to deal with? Find this out by speaking to past customers about the ease of working with the builder. If most of the past clients have only negative sentiments about the builder, find a different contractor.
Let us help
Having built 500+ homes and won in excess of 15 awards, Empire Custom Builders stands out as the go-to luxury custom home builder in central Florida. We design our homes with your family in mind with careful attention to your lot, home orientation, and family lifestyle. Contact us today and let's discuss how we can help make your dreams come true.
What is your experience?
While every builder was once a new builder, experience cannot be overlooked when selecting a contractor to build your home. New builders have a tendency to make mistakes, which is understandable because in this industry tradesmen become experts on the job. But do you want those mistakes made on your home? No. So, choose a builder that has been in the industry long enough. A simple way of finding out about a builder’s experience is to check how long they have held their General Contractor License.
Are your subcontractors licensed?
Contractors and home builders use a variety of subcontractors including bricklayers, plumbers, roofers, and electricians. The builder must therefore assure you that the subcontractors they will be hiring are both capable and licensed. If possible, ask them to show you the portfolios of these subcontractors so you can also verify their suitability. Check for certifications and licenses in particular. You don’t want to work with non-certified or unlicensed tradesmen because they may expose you to risks.
Do you specialize in my type of home?
This will require you to look at the work the builder normally does and compare it to the type of home you’re hoping to build. Maybe you prefer green constructions and energy efficient structures. If so, you need a builder with expertise and experience in green buildings. If you want a tile roof, you should also select a builder with experience in that area. In other words, some of the buildings the builder has constructed in the past should resemble the type of home you wish to build. Keep in mind that a real custom builder can build any style home your choose.
Can you meet my custom preferences?
The builder you choose should also be able to meet your design preferences. A great custom builder won’t simply provide you with a portfolio of standard floor plans to choose from, but rather will build a home that is specifically designed for your family. If you want to add a deck or modern technology, they will adjust the floor plan to accommodate the changes. If they can’t customize the home as you wish, then it’s better to find a different builder.
How easy will it be to work with this builder?
Custom home building requires constant contact with the builder. This is even more important when building a luxury home. You want to be there all the time, telling the builder how you want various elements of the home to be constructed. Is the builder you’re considering willing to work with you on this? Are they easy to deal with? Find this out by speaking to past customers about the ease of working with the builder. If most of the past clients have only negative sentiments about the builder, find a different contractor.
Let us help
Having built 500+ homes and won in excess of 15 awards, Empire Custom Builders stands out as the go-to luxury custom home builder in central Florida. We design our homes with your family in mind with careful attention to your lot, home orientation, and family lifestyle. Contact us today and let's discuss how we can help make your dreams come true.
