A methodical approach is needed for choosing a builder for a renovation or new construction project.
Word of mouth is far and away the most reliable form of recommendation if you have had no previous experience with a construction company.
As your agent, we can offer some perspective and know know the good builders in the area. We may even be able to recommend one suitable for your project.
We can also provide insights into the type of improvements that will give you the best return on investment, or are most popular with buyers in our area.
Architects and interior designers will also have first-hand experience with a myriad of local companies. Also, check-out the local newspapers to see who advertises regularly.
When you first contact prospective candidates request examples of their work and references. Shy away from those who do not have these immediately available.
A successful relationship with a builder is like any other – it requires trust and understanding.
You should be able to strike a natural rapport with a builder who will genuinely listen to your needs and concerns, and respond by demonstrating they have understood you. Failure to communicate is the most common reason why a relationship between a builder and their client breaks down.
Communication is a two-way responsibility, of course. You must be open and honest about your aims for the project but reasonable in your expectations around price, payment schedules and completion dates. It’s a cliché, but your relationship needs to be win-win.
Here are 12 tips to find a great builder:
- Obtain quotes from no less than three companies.
- Check all prospective candidates carry current state builder licences.
- Go online to see if there are any claims against the builder. This can be done via your state-based licensing authority.
- Ask builders to declare their insurance coverage.
- Ask to meet the principal of each prospective company and the project manager.
- Seek examples and addresses of previous work, as well as client testimonials.
- Assess each candidate’s willingness to work with an architect – some do so only under suffrage. Their reaction is an insight into how they would treat other suppliers.
- Discuss how they would work and co-ordinate with third party suppliers that you might commission independently. These could supply a kitchen, fireplace, air-conditioning and so on. You want in the contract their commitment to co-ordinate these companies, or you’ll become a defacto project manager.
- Make each builder explain how they will buy materials for your work. You want them to purchase materials specifically for your job, so you are paying for what you receive. Some builders will buy in bulk and share the materials between jobs. As a result, you may be overcharged or subsidise another job.
- Tap the knowledge of us as your local real estate agent. We may be able to guide you on the type of renovation or build that attracts prospective buyers and higher prices.
- Architects will have an intimate knowledge of local building companies. You should consider using an architect for the design, rather than drafting services that are offered by some building companies. An architect can also be your project manager, liaising with the construction company.
- Choose the builder with whom you strike the greatest rapport, or your architect recommends. Even if their quote is a little more, the value of the relationship will be priceless.