Top 3 Things to Consider When Searching for a Homebuilder

With more than 400,000 US home builders to choose from, narrowing your search for the perfect one can seem overwhelming.

Additionally, as one of the biggest investments you'll ever make, you want to be 100% sure you're making the right choice. 

But with as many options as there are out there, how can you be so sure?

We've analyzed the process and narrowed it down to the top three things you need to consider when searching and selecting your home builder: quality, design and the customer experience.

1. Quality

Your home is where you and your family will live for years, where you will entertain friends, host events, gather with loved ones.

It is where you will rest, laugh and enjoy life.

You’ll want to enjoy your new home worry-free, without thinking about repairs or upgrades. Therefore, a priority when selecting a builder should be the quality of their work.

In terms of quality, here are some things to consider to help you determine whether a potential builder will meet your expectations:

1. Tour past communities and projects to experience the quality of the neighborhoods and the homes they have built firsthand.
2. Check references. Talk to previous customers to hear their experiences.
3. Read reviews of home builders. Check multiple sources to ensure you're getting an accurate representation.
4. Ask what materials they use. Are the fixtures and appliances from well-known, trusted brands? What type of insulation do they use? What makes their homes energy efficient?

2. Personalization and Design

Some builders offer limited options when building a new home and may not offer a wide selection of lots, floor plans and options like flooring, cabinetry and countertops. Be sure the builder you choose offers you as many (or as little) choices as you are comfortable with.

In terms of design, here are some good questions to ask:

1. How many floor plans do you offer in this community?
2. What are my lot choices? Do you offer oversized lots? Corner lots?
3. Can I make modifications to the floor plan?
4. Do you offer selections that are important to me? (These items will be unique to you and what you are looking for in your new home, such as hardwood flooring, oversized tile, vinyl plank floors, white cabinetry, patterned backsplash, oversized garage, glass front door, etc.)

Be sure the home builder offers what is important to you so you can personalize your new home.

3. Customer Experience

Be prepared with your list of questions before you visit a model home.

A good salesperson will be fully transparent and be happy to respond to anything you ask. If the salesperson is not knowledgeable or takes a long time to respond to your questions, it may be an early sign that you will experience frustration with communication throughout the building process.

Some additional questions to ask when visiting a model home or community include:

1. How long has the builder been in business?
2. How many homes does the builder construct annually?
3. How long does it take to build?
4. Will you meet your builder/supervisor – the actual person in charge of the construction of your home?
5. Does the builder have a preferred lender that can offer mortgage assistance and advice?

Choosing the right home builder can make owning your dream home a reality. At Gehan Homes, we believe happiness starts at home, and we’re here to help you find the perfect house for you and your family. Fill out the form below today, and we'll get started.