W hat to look for when selecting a Home Builder

Home building is a complex job. It takes 16 weeks or more, 45 different skilled trades and thousands of components to construct an average home. It combines many disciplines; from constructing a solid, energy-efficient structure and installing state-of-the art plumbing, heating, cooling, and ventilation systems to fitting the home out with a wide range of products and finishes, inside and out. It requires design and planning upfront, and careful management throughout the process. Everything must be completed within a context of municipal and provincial regulations, permits, inspections and approvals.

A professional home builder needs to deal with it all, and do it well. Here are some questions you can ask to find out about a builder’s skills, experience and professionalism.

1. How long has the company been in business?

2. How many homes do they build annually?

3. Does the company have the required licenses and registrations?

4. Do the Builder’s sub-contractors have the proper licenses and registrations?

5. Is the company a member of an industry professional organization such as the GHBA, NHBA, and the BBB?

6. Does the company have an established after-sales warranty policy, and how does it work?

7. Will the company provide a list of previous clients for a reference check?

8. Will the company allow you to see any of their homes under construction?

9. Do they have an established network of sub-trades who work with them on all or most of their homes? Will the company provide you a list of their sub-trades?

10. Is the company active in the community? For instance, are they involved in local volunteer endeavors, sponsor of local youth sports or youth groups? Community involvement speaks to the company’s commitment to good corporate practices and “giving back” to the people of the community.

11. Does the Builder have mortgage financing arranged for their customers with a national, financially strong lender?

12. Is the builder an “approved” builder with financially strong, National lender?

Superior Homes can answer YES to all of these questions. Please ask our Sales Executive if you have other questions or need more information.