How to Get the Most Out of Your Home Builder

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How to Extend Your Property

Hello, my name is Danny and this is my new blog. I live in Sydney, Australia in my dream property. When I bought this house, it wasn't my dream at all but I could see that the place had potential. When I first saw the place, I knew it had potential but it was a little small. I bought it and decided to extend the kitchen and dining room out into the yard. I am not a construction professional so I had no idea how to do this. Thankfully, my friend recommended a fantastic contractor who helped me plan the work and then completed the work in super quick time. I learnt a lot so I would like to share it here.

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How to Get the Most Out of Your Home Builder

22 May 2019
 Categories: Construction & Contractors, Blog

A home builder's services are essential if you intend to build your own home. In the excerpt below, you will learn how to get the most out of your home builder. 

Professionalism

Your primary consideration when hiring a home builder should be his or her level of professionalism. Below are a few ways to gauge his or her professionalism. 

  1. What is the individual's level of experience? Ask the home builder to show you some of his or her recent work. With this information, you'll be able to determine if the builder can handle your project.
  2. Is the builder affiliated with a professional body? Builders that have membership in professional organisations observe a strict code of conduct.
  3. Choose a builder that has full insurance coverage. Essential coverage includes general liability, professional indemnity and public liability.
  4. Professional builders have qualified staff and a wide range of construction equipment.

Pricing

You must understand the builder's pricing strategy before hiring him or her. Ask for a quote and inquire when payments should be made. If the builder will supply building materials, it is best that you ask for estimates from a qualified quantity surveyor. To avoid extra costs, ask the builder to give you a fixed quote. Also, ask the builder to draft a contract detailing the terms of agreement.

Home design

Engage your home builder in the design phase. While his or her input may not be necessary, the process allows him or her to gauge the scope of the project. Additionally, he or she has an opportunity to interact with the architect, certifier and home inspector. These relationships are vital, as your home builder will need to liaise with the professionals once he or she begins the project. 

Financing

If you will take out a construction loan, the builder must be experienced in handling such projects. Most banks release the money in phases to ensure that the project is completed properly. If the builder does not meet the bank's expectations, the project could stall. An experienced builder can negotiate new terms with the bank if he or she thinks that the institution's terms are unreasonable. 

Communication 

From the onset, decide on suitable communication strategies. Most home builders will provide you with their contact information. If you have any complaints, address them in writing. This ensures that you have sufficient evidence in case of a dispute.

To get the best out of your home builder, evaluate his or professionalism, understand the builder's pricing strategy, engage the builder during home design, and decide suitable communication strategies. Contact home builders in your area to learn more.