How to Choose the Right Builder?

If you like the idea of starting fresh as the first owner of a new home, you’re not alone. Many Queenslanders have taken this journey with Sunstate Homes, and haven’t looked back! But while there are plenty of good reasons to build a new home, you have to weigh up all the factors involved.

We think the most important of these is choosing the right builder. After all, you’re sinking a lot of money into this project so you want to make sure they’re right for you from the get-go. Let’s take a closer look at how to go about choosing the right builder.

What past projects have they done?

The most reputable builders will have a portfolio of past projects or a design gallery you can browse. If you have a certain type or style of home in mind, then you can see if they build similar homes to what you want.

There’s no point going for a builder who concentrates solely on bungalows if you’re looking for a two storey four bedroom home.

Ask them for references

Professional builders will have references on hand so you can follow up on the quality of their work. These will either be online, or available in document form.

They should have a range of references – from homeowners who have previously used the builder for a new home, as well as architects and tradies who’ve dealt with them.

You’re looking for a majority of 5 star glowing testimonials here, ones that inspire confidence to go ahead with your chosen builder.

Go door knocking

Don’t just take their word for it. You should also do your own independent research and make contact with people who’ve had their homes constructed by your prospective builder. Most people will be open to having this conversation. If they’ve had good experience you’ll get a positive response, or if not they’ll want to warn you off.

Good questions to ask are:

• Was the project was well-handled?
• Did it come on on budget?
• Did it run to schedule?
• Were there any issues that arose?
• How were post-build problems dealt with?
• What was the overall experience?

Get comparable quotes

You should do your homework first and compile a short-list of builders before you start asking for quotes. To make sure you’re getting a good deal you’ll want to get between three and five quotes from your preferred builders.

Even though it can be tempting to go with the cheapest, this isn’t always best. They may be cheap because they cut corners or their initial quote may not include many of the features that you want (the bill for this will come later!)

To get clear, comparable quotes you need to provide specifics on the scope of the works, house plans, diagrams and materials required if you can.

Start dates and end dates

Ask each builder for an accurate estimate of the start date and end date of the project. This information can be very helpful for determining who gets the job. Knowing how long the project will take allows you to calculate your holding costs, whether it’s rent or another mortgage.

How do you get on?

You don’t have to be best mates with your builder, but you do have to have a good rapport. After all you’ll have to deal with them a lot over the coming months, so if you get on well it’s a lot easier to communicate your vision.

Often the person who makes initial contact may not be the person you end up dealing with on the site. Make sure you ask who your direct contact person will be so there are no surprises.

Why Sunstate Homes?

Sunstate Homes builds high quality, individually designed houses that exceed our clients’ expectations.  We pride ourselves on being upfront and honest with our clients from the very start, we do not cut corners and there are no hidden costs!  As a family run boutique construction business, you will deal directly with the owner of the business meaning no middle man! 

Get in touch with us today if you’re looking for a professional, trusted, reliable company to make your dream home a reality.