Choosing the right home builder is a critical decision that can impact the success of your building project. Whether you’re planning to build a new custom home, remodel your current property, or add an addition, you need to make sure you engage the right builder for you.
We have created a list of tips to help you on this journey:
1. Research Your Options
Most people these days revert to the internet for their ultimate information source. If you’re looking for a custom home builder in Adelaide, reviewing a builder’s website, social platforms, client testimonials and Google reviews are not to be overlooked for up-to-date and credible information. However, one should not discount the power of who is building (or has built) in your local area.
For example, if you live by the beach, such as Henly Beach, it would be wise to opt for a builder who has repeatedly built in these environments as they will have good knowledge of how to manage weather-related influences such as wind and corrosion. These types of factors need to be considered not only in a home’s design but importantly in the use of external and internal building materials.
Perhaps you live in the Adelaide Hills or a bush-fire prone area? If this is the case, it would be advisable to engage a builder who is capable of designing and building a home to withstand the elements around fire – as well as ensuring you have optimal water supply for emergencies.
Maybe you have purchased land with a sloping block? There are many factors around these types of sites that need to be factored, such as house design, foundations and retaining. Ensuring you have a builder who has built on sloping sites previously would prove beneficial to you in the long run.
Whatever your case may be, researching local builders in your areas is the first step in the process.
2. Identify Your Needs
It is important to have defined exactly what you are looking to build. For example:
- Are you building a custom designed home?
- Do you need to knock-down an existing home to build new?
- Are you building in a development area?
- Is the home you are renovating and extending heritage?
- Are you renovating to flip or improve your living requirements?
- Is this your forever home?
- How do you expect your lifestyle to change over the next 5-10 years?
Knowing all of this upfront will help you to narrow down your search and identify building companies that can cater to these requirements.
3. Get Referrals
Ask friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations. You can also reach out to local building associations, real estate agents and trusted local social media groups for recommendations. Lastly, do not be afraid to knock on doors of houses you admire and ask which builders they used. Most people are more than happy to share in their experience and this will give you a great insight into what it is like to work with the builder.
4. Schedule a Meeting
Schedule meetings with builders to get an understanding of their experience, style, and approach to building. Ask about their portfolio of work, project timelines, and budget expectations, also find out if they have been awarded any accolades for the work. This setting will help you get an insight into how well you can work together.
5. Consider Communication and Accessibility
Building projects can take months to complete, so it’s essential to choose a builder who is responsive and accessible. Find out how exactly they communicate with their client throughout the build. Make sure you feel comfortable communicating with them and that they are willing to listen to your concerns and questions.
6. Check for Licensing and Insurance
Make sure the home builder is licensed and insured to work in your area. This will protect you from any liability if anything goes wrong during the construction process.
Finding the right builder requires careful consideration and research. With the right builder by your side, you can ensure that your building project is completed successfully.
BTF Constructions specialises in custom builds, home renovations and home extensions in the Adelaide and surrounding areas.