Red Flags to Watch for When Interviewing Home Builders

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Building a custom or semi-custom home is a dream come true for many Americans. However, that dream could quickly turn into a nightmare if you don’t hire the right home builder. Most people only do this once or twice in a lifetime, so it pays to get a little expert advice to help you make the right decision.

Hiring a home builder starts with the interview. A polished website is great, but an interview can throw up some red flags you should never ignore. Read on for seven home builder red flags that signal you should run for the hills.

  1. Vague Answers

Good home builders know their stuff. They work on projects week in and week out and can draw on years of experience when discussing your build. While there are fluctuations in the cost and availability of building materials at times, generally, a reputable builder can confidently answer questions about timelines, materials, warranties, change order policies, and building practices.

If you get a lot of hemming and hawing, or “we’ll have to see,” this is probably a red flag. Here are a few questions a trustworthy home builder should be able to provide confident, specific answers for:

  • What’s your average build time for this home plan?
  • How do you handle delays?
  • Can you walk me through a project timeline?

Consistent, transparent communication will make the home-building experience a pleasure. If the builder can’t communicate clearly in the interview, things are unlikely to improve during the project.

Here is a more comprehensive list of questions to ask your new home builder.

2. No Written Estimates or Contracts

Reputable builders take time to explore your preferred design and customization. They will then prepare a detailed estimate, which includes:

  • Scope of work — At Charleston, this literally includes everything. Your home build is completely taken care of.
  • Payment schedule — At Charleston, this is only your down payment and your final payment. 

You can then discuss any needed changes. Ultimately, this forms the basis of a binding contract signed by both parties outlining responsibilities, timelines, and warranties, along with many minor details.

If a builder refuses to provide a detailed, itemized estimate or won’t commit to a written contract, simply walk away. Verbal agreements are not enough for one of the most significant purchases you’ll ever make. 

3. Pressure

Reputable builders understand that customer satisfaction is their ultimate goal. A good home builderhomebuilder wants customers to feel confident, well-informed, and never rushed. 

On the other hand, shady builders are looking to pocket your cash as quickly as possible. They may ask you to pay a deposit before you’ve signed a contract or had a chance to review it in detail. This is probably a sign they have cash flow issues or don’t want you to examine the fine print. Whatever their reason for rushing, it’s time for you to rush out the door and not come back.

4. Worrying Online Reviews

Even the best home builder will get an occasional disgruntled customer. But if you find that former customers are flocking to social media and review sites to vent their anger, that’s a major red flag. 

5. Lack of References

Experienced builders can often provide a list of references – past clients who are happy to be contacted about the build process and their satisfaction with the final result. If they cannot provide any references, you should be concerned.

Talking to homeowners who have worked with the builder before gives you a chance to ask questions about:

  • Communication
  • Quality of workmanship
  • Satisfaction with the home potentially years down the line

Reputable home builders understand that this is a major investment, and you’re putting a lot of faith in them. They will be proud to introduce you to former clients and let you admire their completed projects.

6. No Proof of Insurance or Licensing

In Nebraska, all contractors must be registered with the Nebraska Department of Labor. Never assume a contractor is licensed. Always ask for their registration number or use the Department of Labor’s online checking service before proceeding beyond the initial interview.

7. Too Good to Be True Pricing

Everyone loves a bargain, but beware if a builder’s pricing is significantly lower than other estimates. The reason could be:

  • Inferior building materials
  • Cutting corners with technique or labor
  • Planning to add extra costs later in the process

A fair price reflects the cost of qualified labor, quality materials, necessary permits, and realistic project management. When comparing contracts, always make sure you’re comparing like for like by examining what’s included and what’s left out.

Choose the Best Home Building Experience in Omaha

Your home is probably the biggest investment you’ll ever make, so vet your builder carefully. Look for transparency, honesty, professionalism, and a strong track record. While there are plenty of subpar home builders out there, in Omaha, there is a name you can trust – Charleston Homes.

We aim to leave satisfied customers in our wake after every home we build. Our clear, step-by-step process, in-house warranty service, and exceptional customer care take the stress out of home building, so you can focus on enjoying your forever home.

Ready to start your homebuilding journey? Request a quote from Charleston Home today!