T-Minus 231 Days: 30 Home Builder Questions

 We are preparing for our November Florida trip where we will be talking with several new home builders. In preparation, we have assembled the following 30 home builder questions:

1.      What makes you different from all the other builders?

2.      Do you only build from existing floorplans, can I modify your floorplans, or can I provide my own set of plans?

3.      What features are standard in the homes you build? What are the upgrade options? What is included in the price?

• Plumbing for appliances
• HVAC
• Electrical
• Cabinets
• Tile
• Countertops
• TRAX bug repellent

 

4.      When and how can I make changes or upgrades throughout the building process? Do all decisions need to be finalized before construction begins? What is the change control process? What is the charge for a change?

5.      What are the energy-saving features of the homes you build?

6.      Who will be overseeing the construction of my home? Who can I reach out to with questions as they arise, and how can I contact them?

7.      How do you ensure quality construction: What is your process for inspections throughout construction, final walk-through, and to address any matters that need to be corrected or finalized? Process for getting my home inspector to look at the house during construction?

8.      How long will it take to build my home?

9.      How and when will the final cost of my home be determined?

10.  Can I view a current project you’re working on? (Homes in the works are a great way to check for workmanship and material quality.)

11.  Can you provide me with references or testimonials from previous home buyers?

12.  What are the lot costs/lot premiums?

13.  Second floor framed with wood? If yes, 4” walls or 6” walls? If 6”, does that include more insulation?

14.  What is done to make the house be energy efficient?

15.  Resistance to storms: How is the roof attached/protected from hurricane winds

16.  What is your warranty? What is the process for warranty issues? How quickly will issues be fixed? What are we allowed to do that won’t break the warranty?

17.  Is Landscaping included? Is the landscaping part of the warranty?

18.  Process for getting an enclosed pool added?

19.  How is water run-off handled?

20.  What can to tell us about the design center?

21. Are you experiencing delays in materials or appliances due to COVID?

22.  What if the build is delayed extensively?

23.   What difference does it make when selecting which direction the house should face?

24.  Have there been soil quality tests? Tests for sink holes?

25.  Are there HOA and CDD feeds? What are the HOA rules?

26.  What are the steps in the process/what is a typical timeline?

27.  Schedule for when money is needed? When will I get the final quote? What are the assurances it won’t exceed my budget? Is there cost escalation protection?

28.  What are the estimated taxes on the completed house?

29.  Preferred borrower benefits?

30.  End of the year discounts?