Selecting a Builder
Where do I begin my search for a qualified and reputable builder?
Gather information from a variety of sources.
Laying the groundwork for a successful search will require a little homework. There are many sources you will want to consult when looking for potential builders. Looking through the real estate section of your local newspaper, contacting real estate agencies and consulting with family and friends will help get you started. Once you have compiled a list of four or five builders, check with your local homebuilder’s association to make sure all are members. Being a member of a homebuilder’s association is vital as it denotes that the builder adheres to strict guidelines, conducts ethical business practices and takes part in continuing educational requirements.
P.R. Lancaster is a registered builder with the Home Builder’s Association of Louisville and a member of the Better Business Bureau.
I have compiled a list of potential builders. What is next?
Contact former customers.
Start by finding out what types of houses each builder has built and in what areas/developments. You may wish to contact former clients and get opinions regarding their experiences. Potential questions are as follows:
- How was the builder’s communication?
- Were the subcontractors easy to work with?
- Did the builder finish the project on time?
- Were there cost overruns? If so, how were they handled?
- When the house was completed, how pleased were the customers with the workmanship?
- Were the builder’s business practices ethical? Was he/she easy to work with?
Remember to keep a notebook with your thoughts and impressions so that comparisons can be made after all information has been gathered.
Visit a model or nearly completed home.
By visiting a model or nearly completed home, you will be able to assess the quality of workmanship, the size of homes built and the developments in which they are located. Contact the builder to see if any houses are available for showing.
Interview the builder.
Not only will speaking with former customers prove helpful, but also the builder himself/herself. Questions for the builder should focus on warranties, walk-through inspections, customer service, quality of homes and materials used. All members of the Home Builder’s Association are required to provide an extensive one-year warranty. Finally, ask the builder about the materials and products he/she uses and make sure all are of high quality.
Lancaster Built Homes, Inc. wants you to feel comfortable with your choice of a homebuilder. Please contact us for a list of homes we have built. We will also be happy to provide you with a home to tour. Typically our homes have been highly customized estates in the range of 4,000 to 8,500 + square feet in the east end of Louisville and Prospect. Our future plans include homes in the ranges of 4,000 to 12,000+ square feet. Lancaster Built Homes, Inc. also utilizes quality and efficient products and materials in its building.
