Building your own custom home is an exciting venture filled with endless possibilities and the chance to design a space that truly reflects your lifestyle and preferences. As general contractor of our own home build, we understand the importance of asking the right questions to ensure a smooth construction process and a home that meets your expectations. Here are some essential questions you should ask your builder before embarking on this journey:
1. Review the contract
Before any work begins, it is crucial to have a detailed contract in place that outlines the scope of work, project timeline and payment schedule. Are the important elements of your home identified? Reviewing and understanding the contract will help you avoid any misunderstandings or disputes down the road.
2. Is there a schedule?
Many builders do not want to commit to a fixed schedule. Understandably so with recent market conditions. Most commonly delays in material availability are unpredictable. However, you can still ask for a typical schedule so you can follow along. And if things deviate much, it’s reasonable for you to inquire about what happened. Personally, I wouldn’t want to rush my builder because I don’t want any quality steps skipped. There are situations when you may need to occupy by a specific date. In this case make sure you get started well earlier then the time required to build. Most homes can be built in 6-12 months. A realistic schedule can help you stay informed about the progress of your project and anticipate key milestones. Consider asking your builder to provide a detailed monthly schedule that outlines the tasks to be completed, any potential delays, and important deadlines. This can be especially important if you have any active role in the process, like supplying materials.
3. What is the Allowance for Fixtures (e.g., Lighting, Plumbing)?
Understanding the allowance for fixtures such as lighting and plumbing fixtures is essential for planning your budget and selecting the right materials for your home. Make sure to ask your builder about the allowance allocated for each category and inquire about the process for making upgrades or changes if needed. These are just a couple of the more common ones. Some agreements include cabinetry, landscaping, flooring, door hardware and more.
4. Can You Provide Me with a Detailed List of What is Included?
Obtaining a detailed list of what is included in the construction of your custom home will give you a comprehensive overview of the components and features that will be incorporated into your design. Some builders have specifications on their drawings or separate a separate document outlining details of the materials included. Short of this step, it’s a good idea to inspect other homes with your builder so you have a good idea of what level of finishes are being provided. Take pictures and make notes of what you agree on. This list can help you track progress and ensure that all agreed-upon elements are included in the final build.
5. What is NOT Included?
Equally important is understanding what is not included in the project scope to avoid any surprises or unexpected costs. Often builders are providing everything or “turn-key” homes. But I assure you it’s not everything you are expecting. This is another reason to carry a heavy contingency so when these things come up, you have set aside money in your budget to do what you want. Clarify with your general contractor what aspects of the construction, such as landscaping, irrigation, seed v sod, or elements of trim work, that are not covered in the contract and discuss any potential additional costs upfront. The more time you spend understanding what is included, the more it will flush out what isn’t included.
6. What is the Process and Cost for Change Orders?
This is related to the contract. Change orders are common in construction projects and involve making modifications to the original scope of work. It is vital to discuss the process and cost implications of change orders with your builder to understand how changes will be addressed, approved, and priced throughout the project.
By asking these essential questions, you can establish clear communication with your builder, set realistic expectations, and ensure that your custom home construction journey is a successful and rewarding experience.
Remember, transparency and open dialogue are key to a harmonious relationship between you and your builder. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification whenever needed to guarantee that your vision for your dream home is realized.
Lastly ask yourself.... do you want to be involved? If so, ask your builder if there are any restrictions? For example, if you have a family member, or you yourself are in the flooring business can they be used to provide the material and installation?
As you embark on the exciting process of building your custom home, keep these questions in mind to navigate the construction journey with confidence and clarity. Whether you are a first-time homeowner or a seasoned property owner, understanding the ins and outs of custom home construction can make all the difference in achieving a successful outcome. Ask the right questions, stay informed, and enjoy watching your dream home come to life before your eyes!
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