Building a home is an exciting adventure that many potential homeowners are counting down the seconds for. With this new chapter comes a lot of big decisions that will make or break your custom-home building experience. If you’re like most people, you probably know very little about the construction process. While your building contractor should be able to walk you through everything that’s happening, it never hurts to be prepared. So before your contractor begins work on your new home or renovation project, there are a few things you should ask them.
What Is A Custom Home Builder?
A custom home builder is a professional who helps to design and construct custom homes. Because each home is unique, custom builders must be able to work closely with clients to understand their specific needs and desires. They also need to have a strong knowledge of construction techniques and building codes.
In addition, custom builders must be able to coordinate with a team of subcontractors, including electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, and have excellent communication and project management skills. If you are interested in building a custom home, it is important to understand what your building contractor should tell you. This is the first step to creating the home of your dreams.
Before signing on the dotted line, ensure your building contractor covers these six bases. Building a home is a huge investment, and you want to be confident that you’re working with a reputable contractor who has your best interests at heart.
Here’s what your contractor should tell you before you start construction:
1. The Cost of Materials to Build a Custom Home
One of the first things your contractor should do is give you an estimate of the cost of materials. This includes everything from lumber to windows to plumbing fixtures. Knowing the cost of materials upfront will help you budget for the total cost of the project.
2. The Timeline for The Completion Of Your Custom Home
Your contractor should also provide you with a timeline for the project. This will help you set expectations and plan for any disruptions to your normal routine. A good contractor will work with you to create a timeline that meets your needs and ensures that the job is done right. Having a realistic understanding of when your home will be completed will also help you to manage your expectations.
3. The Names and Contact Information of Subcontractors
If your general contractor is going to be using subcontractors, they should give you their names and contact information. This way, you can reach out to them directly if there are any issues with the work they’re doing. It’s also a good way to get peace of mind knowing that everyone working on your home is qualified and reputable.
4. A Detailed Construction Project Plan
Before construction begins, your contractor should give you a detailed project plan. This plan should include everything from a schedule of when each phase of construction will be completed to a list of materials that will be used. Having this level of detail will help you to monitor the building’s progress and ensure that there are no surprises along the way.
5. Regular Progress Updates
During construction, your local contractor should keep you updated on their progress. This way, you can make sure that they’re staying on schedule and that the work meets your high standards. Progress updates also give you an opportunity to ask questions or voice any concerns you may have about the project before it is completed.
All construction projects require regular updates. This can give you the chance to be aware of and approve additional costs, electrical work, and more. The construction industry has a lot of surprises and regular updates can help you to prevent them.
6. A Warranty or Guarantee on Their Work
Your building contractor should offer some sort of warranty or guarantee on their work. This protects you in case something goes wrong after construction is completed. Make sure you understand exactly what is covered by the warranty or guarantee before signing any contracts.
Southerly Homes Is The Home Builder for You In Austin
These are just a few of the things your building contractor should tell you before starting construction on your new home. Asking these questions upfront will help ensure that you have a positive experience with your builder and end up with the home of your dreams. Hiring a general contractor is a big responsibility. Choose one that is licensed and insured, has residential general contractor and construction manager experience, and is highly recommended.
Before you search for ‘contractors near me’, give Southerly Homes a call. We will build the perfect home for your family.
