Custom Home Building Guide

 I.          Contact a reputable builder. 

How do you determine this?  There are several ways to choose which builder you want to talk with.  

• Look at some the homebuilder’s product.  Look at the detail in the builder’s homes.  This should help you decide which builder you would like to talk with.
• Is the builder registered with the State of Texas through the TRCC?  Laws were passed by the Texas Legislature requiring all builders and remodeling contractors to register with the State.  It is illegal for someone to build your home who is not registered with the State of Texas.
• Ask for references.  References are a builder’s best advertising, and they should be proud to share these with you.  Previous customers and their experiences can give you information about how the builder operates and interacts with the customer during the homebuilding process.
• Is the builder committed to building homes on a full time basis or are they involved in other business ventures that will take time away from building your new home?
• How well does the builder handle punch and warranty items?

II.         Plan design, does the builder offer this service?

This service is not essential but is a plus. 

• If the builder offers plan design, this is an advantage in both time savings and getting a design exactly as you wish it to be in a shorter amount of time. 
• Is the builder on top of changes in building codes? Since these change continuously, the builder can direct decisions that can result in cost savings to you that are related to planning and design.

III.        Specifications

Does the builder put your specifications in writing?  This is an extremely important aspect of the custom homebuilding process for several reasons. 

• First, written specifications help determine an accurate price to build the home.  Within the specs, allowances for certain items will be established such as fixtures, appliances, flooring, etc.
• Second, written specifications help avoid surprises.  Again costs come into play.  If the homeowner expectations differ from the builder’s and the cost was not included this can cause un-needed conflict and stress.
• Specifications will help speed the building process because they allow for better planning.  They will allow you to know in advance what is planned and help relieve some of the stress that naturally comes with building a home.