3 tips for getting the most from this important step
Professional builders are happy to provide a list of references.
They encourage prospective clients to call these references and ask about their experience and level of satisfaction.
A reference check is an easy way to avoid trouble. It’s also a way to confirm that hiring a particular company is a good choice.
Consider these questions as a starting point for learning about your builder.
1. Questions for current or past clients
- What kind of home was built?
- Was the home finished on time and on budget?
- Would they recommend the builder to others?
2. Additional questions may include:
- Is the company organized?
- Do the company’s managers deliver on their promises?
- Does the company keep deadlines and schedules?
Small things, like being on time for meetings, can strongly influence homeowners’ satisfaction.
- Was the home finished as expected?
This reflects the builder’s ability to deliver on detailed specs and setting realistic expectations.
- Were the builder and the team pleasant to work with?
Any construction project is a team effort, and the best contractors have good working relationships with everyone, including architects, interior designers, subcontractors, and other professionals.
At the end, consider asking, “Is there anything else I should be asking or you want me to know?”
Finally, be sure to thank the builder’s reference for their time and information.
3. After the call
If you do uncover a problem, don’t jump to conclusions. Instead, get the builder’s side of the story. For instance, if the home went over budget, a follow-up conversation might reveal that the homeowners made a lot of costly changes after things were underway. These types of follow-up conversations set the stage for honest communication.
Any reluctance on the part of the builder to provide references is a red flag. A forthcoming attitude is a good sign that the builder values transparency and is secure in their reputation.
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