15 Feb How to Select a Marion, Cedar Rapids or Iowa City Corridor Home Builder

Chances are, if you’re thinking about building a custom home in the Marion, Cedar Rapids or Iowa City Corridor, you have a pretty good idea of what you want your home to have – large bedrooms, a big yard, modern kitchen finishes!

But, finding the right home builder takes some homework on your end. Because the last thing you want to do is end up with a custom home builder who lacks quality work or communication. To help you in this process, we wanted to share with you this checklist. Taking these steps will ensure that you select the right home builder or home remodeler to create your dream home!

Contact your local home builders’ association.

• Ask for the names of member builders and remodelers. Here’s the link: nahb.org/findanhba.
• You can also ask family, friends or coworkers for recommendations.
• Make sure the builder or home remodeler has a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers.

Find out how long the company has been in the home building business.

• It usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business.
• You want to make sure they will be around after the construction is complete to service any warranties.

Visit the Better Business Bureau website.

• Check out the company’s rating to see if there have been any complaints filed. Here’s the link: bbb.org.

Check their insurance policies.

• Make sure the home builder or remodeler has sufficient workers compensation and general liability insurance.
•  If they don’t, you may be liable for any construction-related accidents on your property.

Ask for references.

• Any reputable home builder will be more than happy to provide you with names of past clients. Reach out and ask these folks about their experience.
• If they won’t, beware!

Request to see projects.

• Viewing both completed and in progress projects is a good idea.
• Check for quality of workmanship and materials.

Pay attention to communication.

• Do you feel you can easily communicate with the builder/remodeler?
• Remember you will be in close contact with them throughout the construction process and afterward as you live in your new home.

Ensure you have a solid contract.

• Make sure the builder/remodeler provides you with a complete and clearly written contract.
• The contract will benefit both of you. If you are having a new home built, get and review a copy of the home warranty and homeowner manual as well.

Keep in mind cheap isn’t always a good thing.

• Be cautious of unusually low-priced bids.
• If the builder/remodeler is unable to pay for the materials and labor as the project proceeds, this may indicate a potential problem.

Of course, if you have any questions, please contact us. We’d also be more than happy to share with you references, completed projects and custom homes in the Marion, Cedar Rapids or Iowa City Corridor we’re currently building!

Please feel free to share!