When you’re planning to build your dream custom home, finding the right custom home builder is crucial. You want someone who gets your style, communicates well, has a good reputation, and plenty of experience.
But there are some pitfalls you should steer clear of when hiring a custom home builder. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Tips When Hiring A Custom Home Builder
1. Don’t Ask for Quotes by Square Footage
Some builders advertise unrealistically low prices per square foot to attract clients. Be wary of these claims. Every custom home is unique, with different features and layouts. So, it’s impossible to predict an exact cost based on square footage alone. Beware of builders who promise fixed prices per square foot; they may not be honest about the final costs.
2. Don’t Choose a Builder with Limited References
Experience matters. Ask for references from past clients to learn about a builder’s work quality, customer service, and business practices. Be cautious if a builder can only provide a few references repeatedly.
It might indicate they’re not proud of their previous work or don’t value your research process. Look for a builder with a variety of client references, including recent and older custom home projects.
3. Don’t Be Shy About Questioning References
When you contact references, ask open-ended questions to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences. Avoid yes-or-no questions. Inquire about punctuality, cleanliness, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Here are some questions to consider:
- Did the project start and finish as planned? If not, why?
- What challenges did you face during construction, and how were they handled?
- What were the builder’s strengths and weaknesses?
- Would you work with this builder again? If not, why not?
- Would you recommend this builder to friends and family?
- Did the project stay within budget, or did it go over? If so, why?
- How was the builder’s communication throughout the project?
4. Don’t Underestimate Compatibility
Choose a custom home builder in Myrtle Beach and team you can comfortably work with for an extended period. Building a custom home can take time, so feeling at ease with your builder is crucial. You should share a vision for your project and feel that your needs are a priority. Avoid builders who prioritize their preferences over yours. Your builder should be transparent and trustworthy.
5. Don’t Choose a Builder with Poor Communication Skills
Good communication is vital throughout the construction process. A builder should be accessible through their cell phone and have a direct point person for communication.
Home builders in Myrtle Beach who require you to leave messages through an intermediary may lead to communication issues down the road. You should be able to reach someone with authority to address your needs promptly.
6. Don’t Base Your Decision Solely on Price
Opt for value over the lowest price when selecting a Myrtle Beach custom home builder. Choosing the lowest bid can lead to issues like incomplete proposals, inaccurate estimates, low-quality materials, inexperienced workers, or contractors going out of business. Prioritize quality and experience over price. If you can’t afford a quality builder, it might not be the right time to build a custom home.
7. Don’t Try to Deceive the Builder
Honesty is key. Some clients withhold details about their preferences, thinking they can add them later. Others believe that if a feature isn’t in the contract, they won’t have to pay for it. This can lead to misunderstandings and extra costs. Be upfront about your needs and desires from the start to save time and money for both you and your builder.
Avoiding these common mistakes will help you choose the right custom home builder for your dream project. If you’re ready to start the journey, call Dawol Homes today to find the perfect custom home builder for you!
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Dawol Homes
9404 Hwy 17 Bypass,
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
(843) 294-2859
Dawol Homes Sales Office
3100 Dick Pond Rd # E
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-294-2859
We build homes in: Cypress River Plantation, Waterway Palms, Waterbridge, Murrells Inlet, Collins Creek, Bellwood Landing, Carolina Forest, Plantation Lakes, North Myrtle Beach, Socastee, Surfside Beach, Pawleys Island, Litchfield Plantation