Custom Home Builders
Things you should know and do BEFORE you sign with any home builder:
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Check with the local Better Business Bureau to make sure there aren't any complaints already on file. If so, that's your first sign.
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Ask for at least five (5) verifiable references. Make sure you call or stop by and talk with the actual homeowner. Ask about their positive and negative experiences with the Builder.
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Make sure your contract spells out exactly what you are getting (sales price, square footage, amenities, features, who is paying for the title policy, etc.)
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Make sure your earnest money is made out to the title company; NOT THE BUILDER. If he goes belly-up, your money is down the drain.
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Be sure to ask for your Budget sheet BEFORE any building starts so that you will know exactly how much is being allocated for each job.
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GET EVERYTHING IN WRITING. TAKE NO ORAL STATEMENTS FROM ANYONE. IF IT SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE........
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If your Builders keeps promising the World, R-U-N and don't look back!!!
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Ask your builder for the list of contractors he's using to work on your house (electrician, plumbers, etc.) Some builders will automatically give you this list after closing. You need this just in case you have to call back after you move in when things are not working properly OR you can create your own list by asking for a business card when someone is at your house working.
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At closing, make sure the title company has your Builder to sign a waiver that all debts on your property have been paid. Don't be left holding the bag of bills after closing - like me!!!!
This list will be updated periodically. More to come!
