7 Questions to Ask your Potential Home Builder Before Building a House
The home construction has been on a rollercoaster! After unprecedented building supply shortages in 2021, we’re starting to see lumber prices coming down and supply chain interruptions beginning to straighten out. That means that now is a perfect time to start building a home!
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“Custom home builders in Northeast Wisconsin“
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“Why should I build a custom home?“
“How do I choose a floor plan?“
As you get started on your home building project, you’re going to have a lot of questions. The team at Virtue Homes sat down to talk through the most common questions we get asked during our free consults along with the most important information and advice we give to our construction clients during a new build! We’ve put together a handy list of questions you should be asking the general contractors you interview before you decide on who’s going to build your home.
How many years have you been building homes?
There’s absolutely no substitute for experience when it comes to building amazing custom homes, so be sure to talk to your potential contractor about their construction experience! Beyond the hands-on experience a builder has, make sure they are established in the area you want to build and have solid relationships with local subcontractors and suppliers. Ask for references or testimonials from both previous customers and their industry partners. When you choose a new home builder, you’re putting an incredible amount of trust in them, so be sure you’re comfortable with their experience and reputation in the area.
Ask about how long they’ve worked with certain subcontractors, and how long their employees have been on staff. Be wary of any contractors who can’t seem to keep their crew long-term, or who jump from subcontractor to subcontractor frequently.
What is included in the home construction cost?
There’s a lot that goes into building a new home, so it’s important you understand what’s included in your estimate and where additional costs could creep in. From zoning and permit fees to lot clearing and foundation excavation to lumber, windows, doors, and beyond, make sure you understand exactly what’s included in your residential construction quote.
Here at Virtue Homes, we’re committed to understanding our clients’ budgets, putting together realistic construction estimates, and always keeping you up to date with any cost changes. Before you select your contractor to build your new house, make sure you understand how they craft their estimates, what’s included, and how they’ll keep the construction project in scope.
What grade finishes are included?
When preparing your new build proposal, your general contractor will be estimating costs for different finishes in your house, like flooring and countertops. You should ask what types of finishes are included. If they prepare your quote with low-grade finishes included, but you already know you’re going to want quartz countertops or exotic hardwood flooring, your initial estimate should reflect that. If you’re not sure what level of finishes you’re going to want, ask for mid or high-grade finishes in the quote, so that you’ll have wiggle room once it’s time to make those decisions. Or, ask and see if you could go through the spec home. This way a representative can point out what comes standard and what would be an upgrade.
Can I buy my own appliances or materials?
Some contractors may give you credits or an allowance to go towards other costs of building your home! Ask about any appliance allowances or material credits if you source any of your own components.
Remember, sourcing your own materials may save you money in the short term, but often voids any warranties or guarantees from your home contractor, so be sure to talk through any ideas you have with your contractor and understand the potential risks before making any purchases.
How long will it take to build a home?
Timing is everything! If you’re looking to sell your current home before you move into your new build, you’ll need a clear timeline for when you’ll be able to move in! Be wary of home builders willing to guarantee a move-in date before you even break ground, but also make sure you’re getting enough of a timeline that you’re confident they’ll keep things moving. Weather and supply chain delays are notorious for holding building projects up, but an experienced builder will talk you through any current issues they’re experiencing and provide you with a thoughtful timeline.
Here at Virtue Homes, our general timeline for custom home construction is as follows:
- Lot Selection: 1-3 weeks
- Design-Build Plan: 4-8 weeks
- Contract & Budget: 4-6 weeks
- Home Construction: 16-24 weeks
- Close Out / Move-In: 1-2 weeks
Are there any warranties?
A new home is a great investment, and warranties are an important part of protecting that investment! Does the builder you’re talking to offer any type of home warranty? Do their preferred subcontractors offer warranties? Once you move in, what kind of support and communication will you be able to expect from your general contractor?
How involved should I expect to be throughout the home building process?
Speaking from experience, you should want to be involved in every step of the process as you build a new home! Your general contractor should be excited about keeping you up to speed and walking you through all the new developments of the project as they come along. From design to planning to construction, we love working with our clients to ensure their vision is executed flawlessly. This is your dream home, make sure you choose a home builder who will involve you in the process in a thoughtful and fun way!
Let’s Get Started!
Virtue Homes would love to talk more about your dream home and answer any construction questions you have about building a new home in Northeast Wisconsin. We currently have a few available lots on the market in prime locations to build your home on! Already have a lot in Appleton, Oshkosh, Neenah, or somewhere else in the Fox Valley? Let’s break ground! Contact us by giving us a call at 920-209-0305 or by filling out the form on our website to set up your free consultation!
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We can’t wait to learn more about your vision for your dream home! Schedule your free consultation today.
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