Interviewing Potential Home Builders: What to Ask

What questions do I ask a builder
What questions do I ask a builder

Conducting thorough interviews with your potential contractors is highly recommended as it can help you make sure they are capable, reliable, and a good fit for your needs. While this may seem like a difficult and complicated venture, knowing what questions to ask can make all the difference. This is why we’ve created a list of the most important questions to ask your new home builders in San Diego and find out whether they have what it takes to bring your vision to life. Keep reading!

What questions do I ask a builder?

san diego new home buildersAs you get ready to meet in person with your carefully chosen selection of potential builders, make sure you include these questions in your interview. Feel free to jot them down:

1. Do they have ample experience building the quality and style of home that you want? 

This is an extremely important point, as different styles present different challenges. You want to make sure they won’t be taking on something new, but instead will be employing their comprehensive knowledge and lessons learned from past projects similar to yours. 

2. What is their estimating process?

The estimating process should be thorough. The preliminary estimate is typically based on historical hard costs and current market pricing. Once the plans and specifications are finalized, the detailed budget estimate is based on bids from subcontractors and vendors. Make sure they secure multiple bids from reliable subcontractors and analyze these bids thoroughly. 

3. Who will be responsible for your project?

It’s important to understand what the team you’ll be working with looks like. Are there both a construction and project manager or construction manager only? What type of in-office support does each project team receive? How heavily the teams are loaded up? Will your project be under direct supervision and how often? 

4. How will they address questions and concerns during construction?

It’s perfectly normal for minor issues to occur during a home construction project. However, how your contractor addresses these makes all the difference. Make sure you like their communication style and you trust they will value your concerns and opinions along the way. If they set regular meetings with you and other teams, it shows they value accountability, organization, and efficiency. 

5. How long will the project take?

new home builders san diegoThis answer will depend on the complexity and size of your project and it can take anywhere between 10 months to more than 24 months. However, it also depends on how organized their processes and systems are, their team’s experience, how diligently they give you regular updates on the project, as well as their ability to anticipate and solve problems before they arise. 

6. Can they give you examples of methods or materials they use?

This will give you insight into their knowledge and expertise as well as the level of quality they’re dedicated to. Feel free to ask any follow-up questions to see how thoroughly and patiently they are willing to explain and demonstrate their expertise. 

Who are the best new home builders in San Diego?

When you’re not sure if a custom home is the right option for you or what benefits opting for your local builders offers, JDC Build is the team you can rely on. We’re here to carefully listen to your needs and give you a beautiful and durable home you’ll love. Our experienced professionals apply proven methods, reliable equipment, and high-quality materials to bring your vision to life. Whether you need us in San Pasqual Valley or in another SD neighborhood, we’ll be there to help. Call today!