Congratulations! You’ve finally decided to build a new home or remodel the old one. You have the determination, the financing, and the time. All you have to do is choose the ideal construction company to make sure all of the above is not wasted in wane.
Since the demand is high, the variety of such companies on the market is substantial. Considering the costs of such a project, failing to find an ideal service provider could be unfortunate.
So where do you start when looking for the perfect construction company? This short read can help you get on the right track to building your dream home.
Table of Contents
1.   Determine Your Needs
Even though many companies are ready to take up any construction project, some specialize in a specific type, style, or price range. Some companies may refuse to build starter homes while others may not be ready to take up million-dollar custom-designed homes.
Once you have your needs and desires listed, look for a company specializing in them. It’s always better to hire an expert in a certain field than settle for an all-purpose solution.
Be ready to change your preferences slightly. According to contractors in Florida, sacrifices are unavoidable for some homeowners since they have unrealistic expectations about the abilities of construction companies.
2.   Make a List of Companies
The first thing you should do when choosing a company is to ask around. If you can get real reviews from family, friends, and co-workers, you can find the right company quicker. Ask your neighbors for recommendations as well. They are likely to have information about construction workers in the area.
If you can’t get any real-life recommendations, opt for Google. Make a list of companies in your area with the best reviews. Check if the company has an office. While remote construction workers could do a good job, it’s better to hire a respectable company with an office you can visit.
3.   Ask About Communications
The worst part of building a home is unexpected expenses. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it’s important to communicate with the construction company. Before signing a contract, ask about communication approaches and channels.
How often will you be getting reports? Will you have a dedicated employee working with you throughout the project and providing updates? Ideally, the company should take advantage of online tools to help you monitor the process anytime and anywhere.
4.   Check the Licensing
To work legally in the United States, a construction company should have a general contractor’s license. To get this license, the expert has to have work experience of at least two years, pass special exams, show proof of education and financial stability as well as liability insurance.
Ask the company if it’s properly licensed and don’t hesitate to ask them to show the license to you. A respectable company is always ready to demonstrate the license and other credentials. Many have them available on their websites.
You can also check if the company belongs to the Home Builders Association. Even though it’s not mandatory, such membership means that the company cares about its reputation.
5.   See the Portfolio
No matter how experienced the company is, its work should speak for itself. You need to ask the company to show you a portfolio coupled with references. Find the time to visit homes built or remodeled by the company and ask clients for reviews.
A picture is worth a thousand words. A home that satisfies its owners is worth millions of dollars. Find out how well the company does its job in your area. Ask such questions as “why would you recommend this company?” and “why wouldn’t you recommend it to your friend?”
6.   Find out About Warranty
When you invest a formidable amount of money in a new home, you don’t have to worry about repairs for at least several years. The construction company should help you enjoy peace of mind by offering a certain warranty.
Ideally, the structural warranty should last for ten years with the right to transfer it to a new owner in case you decide to sell the house.
Find out what types of services the company provides under the warranty and discuss the response time.
7.   Consider the Cost
More often than not, the cost is what future homeowners look at before they consider other factors. However, low price tags don’t mean you won’t be overpaying in the future. Discuss all costs extensively and review all price lists offered by a company.
In many cases, homeowners end up paying much more than they initially discussed with the construction company. Find out all the ins and out of price formation for each of the candidates.
Conclusion
Choosing the right construction company to build your new home is a time-consuming and often nerve-wracking process. Make it easier by following the above steps. Dedicate sufficient time in choosing the best company, and the rest of the process will be much easier.
