There are several factors that contribute to a successful home build, but choosing the right builder tops our list. The right builder will be trustworthy, organized, an excellent communicator, hands-on, and experienced in the style of home you want. But with so many options, you might be wondering—how do you find the right builder?
Here’s how to navigate the process and find someone who’s a perfect fit for your dream home:
1. Start with Research
Attend a Home Builder’s Association Show
One of the easiest ways to get acquainted with reputable builders is to attend a Home Builder’s Association event. These shows gather local builders and contractors, giving you a chance to meet face-to-face, see their work, and ask questions. A quick Google search should help you find an upcoming event near you. It’s a fantastic opportunity to network and get a feel for the options in your area.
Go for a Drive
Sometimes the best research is getting out and seeing homes in person. Spend a day driving around your area and take note of new construction homes that catch your eye. Most homes will have a sign in the yard with the builder’s information. If not, don’t hesitate to stop by and ask someone on-site who’s behind the project.
Do Some Digging
Don’t forget the people behind the scenes! Visit local lumber yards and building material retailers (like flooring, tile, lighting, or plumbing fixture stores) and ask if they have a list of recommended builders they work with regularly. These vendors often have valuable insights into which builders are reliable and consistent with their work.
Use Social Media
Social media is another great tool for finding builders. Post on your personal page or in local community groups that you’re looking for a builder. You’ll get a variety of recommendations—some glowing reviews and a few warnings about who to avoid. Both are incredibly useful as you narrow down your choices.
2. Get Into the Nitty Gritty
Once you’ve gathered a list of potential builders, do a quick case search on your local county or state website. This is where you can check for any lawsuits or legal issues involving the builder. If you see any cases related to “Breach of Contract” or similar red flags, be sure to discuss this with them prior to hiring.
3. Narrow it Down and Meet Face-to-Face
After your research, you should have a shortlist of builders you feel comfortable with. Now it’s time to schedule a face-to-face meeting with your top three choices.
Here’s the trick: You can get a feel for how they work from the very first interaction. Was it easy to set up the meeting? How was their response time? Did they follow through with confirmation messages or details? These small things tell you a lot about how organized and communicative they’ll be during your build. If they can’t handle the initial meeting smoothly, that might be a sign of future problems.
Get Prepared with the Right Questions
During the interview process, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure the builder is a good match for your project. To help you make the most out of your interviews, download our free Builder Interview Questionnaire!
Remember, choosing the right builder is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make in your new build journey. Take the time to research, dig deep, and trust your instincts—your dream home depends on it!
