How to choose your Home Builder

Thinking of building a home in the near future? Whether you are buying a condo, a townhouse, a house in a subdivision or a custom-built house, you want to know that you are buying a good quality home from a reputable builder. Here are the tips we recommend when starting the process of home building.

Make a list of potential home builders you are considering

Once you have considered the type of home you want, you can create a list of builders that can accommodate your needs. In Ontario, you can check the Tarion website for a complete list of registered homebuilders. Builders registered with Tarion provide a new home warranty to cover any issues that may arise once you occupy the home and ensure one of your largest investments is protected.

Looking online or in your local paper in the Real Estate section can also be helpful. You will be able to identify active builders, the home styles that they build and their price ranges. Seeking out a knowledgable Real Estate Agent will also be able to partner you with the right fit and home builder to suit your needs.

Local Home Shows and Open Houses are another great way to meet homebuilders while getting a feel for the quality finishes and styles that they specialize in.

Speaking with friends and neighbours can also provide recommendations. They may have direct experience with a builder they’ve use or have heard of one that provides professional, quality and honest service.

Now it’s time to dig deeper

Once you have a list of potential builders you want to consider, it’s time to ask questions. We recommend having a list of questions to ask that reference what is most important to you.

Take a drive and visit the builders past homes built or subdivisions they have completed. You may even consider driving throughout a neighbourhood on the weekend when homeowners are available to answer any questions about their own experience with the builder. A few questions to consider;

• Are you happy with your home?
• If there were any problems, were they dealt with promptly and professionally?
• Would you consider buying another home built by this builder?

When speaking with both homebuilders and owners, make sure to note their answers to help jog your memory when making your final decision.

Quality is King

When visiting a past build, model or a homebuilder’s showroom, be sure to take a look at the quality of finishes. Inspecting the quality of cabinetry, flooring, trim, and paint should all come together flawlessly and seamlessly. If something looks off, it could be a sign of bigger issues later on or disappointment in the way the home quality came (or didn’t) come together.

Ask as many questions as it takes to get the answer you need from the homebuilder’s representative. What may seem like an insignificant question, may yield an important answer! Remember, it’s your investment and your home so you want to have the best experience possible during your home building process.