Building your dream home can be exciting and liberating, especially if you find a general contractor or builder that you are comfortable working with. You can work with an architect to design a space that fits your lifestyle from the ground up, but no matter how great your blueprints are, only finding a great general contractor can ensure your finished home meets your expectations.
It’s not just about finding a licensed contractor; it’s about finding the right licensed contractor
Finding a general contractor that will work with you to build a home is a critical part of the construction process. This is the person who will be there to ensure every square inch of your new home is done to your exact specifications, on time and within budget. So you want to make sure you find a licensed general contractor who listens carefully and fully understands your needs as a homeowner. Ask around to be sure they have a solid reputation for building quality homes.
Start by narrowing your choice down to a few general contractors
Your first step when finding a general contractor is to research your options and what people are saying about them.
- Ask your friends and family for referrals. If they haven’t worked with someone, they might know someone who has. You want as much feedback as possible.
- Use the internet. People like to share their stories, good and bad. Sites like Angie’s list host reviews about licensed general contractors in your area so you can see what people are saying about them. Don’t be afraid to follow up and ask more questions about what you hear.
Find out how the general contractor will work with you during construction
Once you have narrowed down your general contractor or builder selection, you need to find out how the working relationship will function.
- Can you visit the construction site as you feel the need?
- What is their history with getting jobs done on time and on budget?
- Do they have references they are willing to supply you?
- How do they prefer to handle payments to them and other vendors?
Get pre-approved for a home construction loan so you’re prepared to talk with contractors
Part of your conversation with any licensed general contractor will be about how you plan to finance building your dream home. Many lenders have home construction loans and financing options available. Find a lender that will work with you to get financing in place with pre-approval so that once you choose a general contractor, you will know exactly what you have to work with financially.
Sponsored content was created and provided by RBS Citizens Financial Group.
Steve Louis
Sunday 11th of December 2016
Great article, thank you for writing this. In addition to having references, a general contractor should also have a list of trusted subcontractors. They should allow a homeowner to see see this list and do some checking up on the subcontractors to make sure their licenses are still active.
Kenneth R.
Tuesday 25th of August 2015
Ask for examples of projects similar to yours. Once a contractor has started, it is frustrating to find out that they are having problems due to lack of experience with your type of project.