Buying a new construction home can be both an exciting and intimidating prospect, especially if you’re working with a custom homebuilder. However, by choosing the right builder and knowing the best way to work with that builder, the home building process can work much more smoothly. Before you break ground on your dream home, here are 6 important questions to ask the builder.
1. How long have you been building homes in this area?
This question is important for several reasons. First of all, the answer gives you an indication of the builder’s overall experience. Secondly, it gives you an idea about the builder’s reputation in the community (a reputable builder with longevity will likely be known for quality and craftsmanship; bad builders can’t stay in business for long). Thirdly, it tells you whether that builder has established good connections with lenders, architects, suppliers, contractors, and subcontractors to get things done efficiently and with good pricing. And finally, you’ll have the assurance that the builder understands local building codes so your new home will comply.
2. Do you have any references I can call?
To further assure yourself that you’re working with the right builder, feel free to ask for references from their past clients and recent buyers. A good new homebuilder will be glad to share these with you. Then, call these people and ask them to describe their experience working with the builder. These testimonials will go a long way in helping you decide whether you want to work with this builder. Read what Lowder New Homes’ customers have to say about their new construction homes.
3. What energy-efficient options do you offer?
Today, most new home constructions are built to higher energy efficiency standards than homes of a couple of decades ago, but many builders still offer additional options for minimal cost. Be sure to check with your builder about energy-efficient upgrades before settling on the “standard” package of your particular home or floor plan.
At Lowder New Homes, we incorporate energy efficiency into every new construction home we build — from low E windows to energy-saving appliances and more.
4. What other customization options do I have?
Asking about extras, customizations, and upgrades can open the door to some luxury options you didn’t realize you had — some of which may actually be within your budget. So ask away! Ask about upgrades in appliances, countertops, cabinetry, fixtures, HVAC upgrades, smart home features, and anything else that strikes your fancy. If you work with Lowder New Homes, we have an entire design center to help guide you through your decision-making.
(Additional hint: Ask the builder if there are any free upgrade concessions available; you may be surprised at what extras you can get just by asking about them.)
5. How do I schedule visits to the job site?
During the construction process, you’re naturally going to want to check in with the builder to see how things are progressing with your home build. However, the construction site may not always be safe, so drop-in visits are not usually recommended. Talk to your builder about how to schedule these visits in a way that is both safe for you and doesn’t interfere with the workers’ schedules. Also, be sure to ask about a final walk-through when the construction is completed.
6. How do I reach you with problems or questions?
The answer to this question will tell you a lot about your builder’s customer service policy. A good builder will be accessible by phone or email as much as possible to address any concerns along the way. Related to this question, make sure the builder is licensed, bonded, and has sufficient general liability insurance. Also, be sure to ask about the builder’s home warranty programs so you can address any issues after the new build is complete.
For example, Lowder New Homes offers a full ten-year structural warranty on any new home purchase that starts once you move in. An added benefit is that the structural warranty is transferrable to a new owner for the balance of the ten-year coverage. Learn more about our warranties.
Meet Alabama’s Most Trusted Homebuilder
At Lowder New Homes, we’ve been building quality, energy-efficient homes in Montgomery, Alabama for more than six decades. We have built a solid reputation for customer satisfaction and customer service. Our representatives are available seven days a week. Contact us today to learn more about our new construction homes.