10 of the worst mistakes made when selecting a Home Builders:
1. Make sure your home and lot are compatible. Ideally, you should select the house that you want, and purchase a lot that will accommodate that house. A good builder should be able to look at the plans, and tell you how big the lot needs to be in order to meet property line off sets.
2. Don’t look for the lowest priced builder for you home. You usually get what you pay for. Instead, look for quality features. Look for a builder you feel comfortable talking with, and trust your instincts.
4. Check with subs to make sure the builder has a good payment history for work performed. Ask if they have ever placed a lean on property because of non payment for work performed. You can also check with the clerk of the court to see if leins have been placed on property. Search by company name as well a owners name.
http://www.flaglerclerk.com/oncoreweb/search.aspx5. Don’t ask for references. The builder knows who to send you too. Instead, check permits issued to the builder and randomly select 2 to 3 homes from the list to visit. Introduce yourself, and ask questions about the build process. You can find this information at:
http://permits.ci.palm-coast.fl.us/ Search by contractor and you will see a list of permits issued.
6. Check current construction sites. Are homes progressing smoothly, or setting for long periods of time with little progress?
7. Check to see where contractor purchases cabinets and appliances, as well as other fixtures in the home. Do they use quality cabinetry or look for low bid items. Do they use a reputable appliance dealer, or shop at the local scratch and dent store?
8. Ask to see homes that the builder is currently building, as well as existing homes. Visit construction sites to check quality and materials used. You can review permits and inspections on the web at:
http://permits.ci.palm-coast.fl.us/Just enter the address, or search by builder name.
9. Don’t fall for the bucket full of Freebie’s that are included in the purchase of your new home. You will pay for these somewhere along the way. Work with the builder to get as much for you dollar as you can, but when the builder has reached bottom, he will let you know.
10. Does the builder offer a builders warranty? If so, is it a policy purchased from an insurance company, or is it backed up only by the builder? The later is usually a worthless warranty because if the builder goes out of business, you have no warranty.
This is by no means an all inclusive list of thing to know before you build. Do your research, know your builder, and trust your instincts. If you need more information, call me and I will be happy to assist in any way possible.
Jim Walden
New Home Sales Manager
Cell: 386-986-0344