Do I Have to Like My Builder?

So now you’ve selected a competent builder. But you may ask, “Do I

Should you LIKE the builder that will build your dream home? (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

have to like the guy? If he has a good reputation as a builder, does it
really matter if I like him?”
Yes, it matters. Don’t sign a contract with a builder you don’t like, trust,
or respect. If you do, you could be headed for trouble.
Why? Because this is a long-term relationship and a long-term
relationship with someone you don’t like, trust, or respect can be
challenging, frustrating, and more than disappointing. The planning stages
of custom building a new home can take anywhere from months to years.
Actual construction may range from six months to 24 months or longer,
depending on the size and scope of your home. Add to that a one- or
two-year limited warranty time period, as well as the fact that you may
need additional information from your builder for many years to come
regarding warranty information, vendor and subcontractor contacts, and
other nuances.
In this business, it’s not uncommon to lose some contracts to other
builders, and it usually boils down to perceived costs. A prospective
homeowner may initially think our pricing is higher than our competitor,
but most often that’s because we didn’t have the opportunity to thoroughly
compare the two proposals.
We like to ask our homeowners why they chose us to build their home.
Often the answer is trust. When challenges arise in your project and you
call to ask questions, it’s important to know that you’ll get a straight and
honest answer.
Do you respect your builder’s values? You don’t have to socialize
together, but sometimes people choose a builder they actually dislike.
Maybe the husband likes the builder or his price, but his wife doesn’t care
for his style, approach, or manners. Ask yourself this question: Is there
a reason you’re uncomfortable with this person? If so, why in the world
would you trust him to build your single most important investment? If
you or your spouse sense that a potential builder operates from a less-than honest
value system, why would you trust him to operate his business with
honest values?
During the construction process there will be times when your builder
will be making some judgment calls. Many of these will be unknown to
you, and that’s just part of the business. When it comes to your home,
you’ll want to know that your builder will be making choices as if it’s his
own home, as if his own family’s safety depended on the choices he makes.
Not just what will pass code inspections. No shortcuts for a quick profit.
Are values important? You bet they are!

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