Shopping around for new home builders in Michigan? Choosing a builder for a custom home is a momentous decision that should not be approached casually. The consequences of a poor choice — whether it be a shady, negligent, or simply unskilled construction company — are steep and costly.
Here at Visser Living, we’re proud to serve as the best custom home builders in Michigan’s southwest. We would certainly love to tackle your project, but also offer the following tips on what to ask any prospective builder before signing a contract!
1. How Long Have You Been in the Business?
Just because a company hasn’t been around very long isn’t a reason not to sign with it. However, there’s no question that longevity in the home-building business suggests a successful operation with plenty of customer satisfaction. This is not to say that a long-running company can’t slide in the standards department — all the more reason to do your homework!
2. Do You Have Any Specialties, or Are You Comfortable With a Wide Range of Designs, Styles, and Sizes?
Some builders may specialize in certain kinds or styles of homes, while others fall more on the jack-of-all-trades end of the spectrum. Depending on what you’re looking for in a dream home, a builder may or may not be a good fit simply based on their particular focus area, comfort zone, or skill set.
3. Can I See Your Business License & Proof of Liability Insurance?
Responsible builders should certainly be willing to share their business license, proof of workers’ compensation (important for protecting you from liability, as the National Association of Home Builders notes), and other relevant documentation.
4. What Kind of Building Materials Do You Use & Where Do You Source Them?
When you’re building a new home in Michigan, it’s a normal part of the process to winnow down options for building materials based on price. A good builder will always select the best quality materials — from grades of lumber to roofing shingles — which fit with your budget, so don’t be afraid to ask about what they specifically prefer to source and from where.
5. Can I See Some References & Testimonials?
Needless to say, a company that seems unwilling or unable to provide you with plenty of references generally ought to be viewed with suspicion. Seek out testimonials and, if possible, talk directly with some of the builder’s previous customers and ask them about things such as business practices, trustworthiness, and overall satisfaction.
6. How Will Communication Be Facilitated During the Building Process?
The beauty of a custom home is that it’s built exactly to your specifications and preferences. One important key to making that work is clear, open, and regular communication between you and your builder throughout the process, especially if plans change, new ideas emerge, unexpected roadblocks are encountered, and potential workarounds end up being required. Ask a prospective custom home builder in Michigan how frequently communication will be possible and via what preferred channels (Phone calls? Emails? etc.).
7. Do You Have Any Professional Associations or Certifications? How About Community Partners?
From memberships in local and regional home builder associations to special certifications and prizes, you can learn a lot about a company through its professional affiliations, partnerships, and awards.
8. Do You Do Your Own Excavating?
Many builders hire out for excavating work, while others — Visser Living among them — are their own excavation company as well. The latter situation can save you headaches, hassle, and, in some cases, money.
Choose Visser Living For New Home Builds in Michigan
At Visser Living, we bring decades of experience and an incredibly dedicated and skilled team to each and every job: from transformative remodeling projects to complete custom home construction.
You can trust us to work closely alongside you to see your dream home realized: You’re a partner in the process, and we endeavor to include you in every step of the journey — and to ensure all throughout that we’re matching, or even exceeding, your expectations.
Get in touch with us today, and let’s start talking about that brand-new custom home on your horizon!