Choosing a Custom Home Builder in Texas

There are hundreds of custom home builders in Texas - how do you find the right one?

First, define your vision - the type and size of home, the number of bedrooms, how much outdoor living area you need. Getting mortgage pre-approval will help you determine a budget.

Check with the sales office where you've purchased land and ask about recommended developers. Look at new homes in the community and ask for references of their builders. Watch for home shows and open houses in the area.

Home building is a complex job, and your builder needs to oversee dozens of employees and contractors. Find out how long the company has been in business, how many homes they build annually, and their background and experience. Does the company have an after-sales service policy, and will they provide references from homeowners? Are they current with latest trends like green building and energy efficiency? Is the company active in the community, do they sponsor local sports or youth groups or participate in fundraisers? Community involvement speaks to the company's commitment to good corporate practices and "giving back" to the people in the community.

Visit model homes from builders you are considering. Keep in mind that the builder created this home as a model home, so what you see represents the best quality that you can expect. Look carefully at things like how doors and windows operate. Pull out drawers and open cabinet doors to see if they work smoothly. Check that baseboard, door and window trim is installed neatly without gaps or poor seams, and that paint coverage is smooth and even. Examine the exterior with the same attention to detail. If you don't feel you know enough about construction, bring someone with you who does and can help you to evaluate the home.

Check the appliances used in the home. Are they brand-name products that you are familiar with, and do they come with a manufacturer's warranty? Is the home environmentally friendly — is it energy-efficient, does it use recycled materials and building materials designed for better indoor air quality?

Get to know the builders you are considering - if the company offers standard plans, how much change is allowed? How flexible is the company? Will the builder modify the floor plans to your needs? Can you change some of the finishes? Add more features? Ask to see a copy of the company's sales contract. See what other costs will the builder may charge you for, such as a new home warranty, legal and title fees, or adjustments on utility bills.

Does the builder have experience with the style of home you are contemplating? Can they design a home for you, or recommend a designer or architect?
Ask about the standard features included in the basic price of the home. Does the builder offer a selection of standard finishing products, such as flooring and tiles, and can you have a look? Does the builder offer upgrades and options, and what do they cost?

When will the builder be able to begin construction? What will be the completion date? Does the company have a clear process in place for dealing with delays, including informing you within a reasonable timeframe? Will you be able to visit the site during construction?

As you get answers to these questions, ask yourself if you feel the builder answers you satisfactorily? Is the builder able to offer suggestions or alternatives to meet your needs? Are you treated with respect?

Builders commonly offer a one-year warranty and after-sales service on workmanship and materials in your new home. This "promise" to customers is most often backed up by a third-party warranty. Ask builders to explain their after sales service policy — what can you expect from the company once you have moved into your new home?
And always, make sure to check with the Better Business Bureau, and search the Internet for information.

Remember, when you build a custom home, you'll be spending up to a year with the builder you choose - doing a little homework can make all the difference.