Think quality first!
Your home isn’t just a temporary residence – it’s a place where you raise a family and make memories, so the last thing you want to worry about are repairs – especially any repairs to structural systems that may be difficult and costly to fix or upgrade at a later date.
Your first priority when selecting a builder should be the quality of their work, and you can check this out by asking to take a tour of their past projects, contact references, look at photos of their previous work, and question the builder about the structural materials you can’t see.
Do your research!
A simple start for your search will often be based on your home’s location, word-of-mouth is always a good recommendation… google can help but don’t forget about the power of social media. Many building firms (including Whitley Builders!) will have Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest pages showcasing their work and recommendations they have had from previous customers. Your local Facebook group is always a good way to ask around for advice too.
Transparency is critical!
The best builders are fully transparent and happy to answer every question from the start – they will give you a timeline and a comprehensive estimate in a prompt manner. Ask them about their building philosophy and what products they use, and what their relationship with contractors and the different people who will be helping build your home is like… if they don’t answer clearly then it’s probably best to back away!
Ask questions!
Remember this is your home, and your money, and many builders are used to the fact that some customers don’t know everything about what’s going on – building is our area of expertise remember, we don’t expect it to be yours. If you don’t understand anything then ask away – as many questions as you like, a good builder will be willing to answer all of them in a way that makes sense to you.
Communication is key!
Find a builder and design team with whom you can connect. Whether that’s face to face, over the phone, FaceTime, Text, WhatsApp or email – however you best like to communicate, make sure they are on your wavelength.
If a builder takes long periods of time to respond to you, it may be an early sign that you will experience frustration with communication throughout the build. You want someone that responds promptly and makes you feel like their only customer.
If you’re interested in finding out more about plans for your home, then get in touch with James Whitley – owner at Whitley Builders today, and let’s have a chat!