Tips for Finding a New Home Builder
Friday, September 6th, 2013
Finding a new home builder can seem like a daunting task. After all, this is your dream house. How do you find someone dependable and experienced? Here are a few tips to help you break the search down into manageable steps.
First, make up a list of possible builders. There are multiple ways to do this. You could contact the Home Builders Association of Greater Knoxville (HBAGK). Look through the real estate section in the Knoxville News Sentinel or local magazines; it’ll give you some idea about who is building the type of home you’re interested in and what they’re charging. Sometimes local real estate agents themselves can help with the search. Then there’s always family and friends; ask them who they’ve had good experiences with.
Next, you want to gather as much information as possible. Usually the most realistic data comes from talking to the builders and their clients. Make a list of questions that are important to you like, “Are you happy with this builder’s work?” or “What kind of guarantees do you offer for your work?”. Make sure to ask questions about the work itself like, “Is there a superintendent that will be focused on my job?” or “Is there someone available to assist me with the design and choices of finishes for flooring, cabinets, paint colors, and fixtures?”. Write all your questions down, have them with you when you talk to people, and bring a notebook to keep track of what you’ve learned from your queries.
Go to the homes that potential builders have built. Open houses are a great opportunity to get a close up look at a contractor’s work. Ask a lot of questions. Even one that seems insignificant can lead you to an all important answer.
And finally, while you’re out shopping, be sure and contact us for some straight forward answers and examples of high quality work.