(start with Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3)
By Larry Gilland
Tour through houses:
When arranging interview appointments, request that the builder, not a supervisor,
tour you through at least two homes he had recently built: a completed home and
one which is presently under construction.
Homes which are complete: Completed homes should be
occupied. This will you an idea of what a typical finished home should look
like. Try to ignore poor interior decorating when it occurs, which is not the
builder’s fault.
If the homeowner is present, watch the silent communication
between the homeowner and the builder. This can give you a great deal of
insight into the final relationship of the employer and employee. Obviously,
the builder will not show you a home where the homeowner is disgruntled. If
possible, ask a few questions of the homeowners. Inquire about how they liked building
their own home and if you might contact them if you should think of any
questions later (and you will). Give the owner your information so they that
have more control over their privacy.
When they call, have a list of questions to ask pertaining
to how smoothly the construction went and what hindsight they‘ve had. Ask them
for advice...they will give it. They may be anxious to caution you about
something that was horrible. Be prepared for anything. Building a custom home
is such a seriously emotional occurrence for most homeowners that they welcome
sharing their experience.
The builder should point out special items in the house. Ask
yourself if he has gone to an extra effort for the homeowner. Do you think he
enjoys his work? If he does, he'll do a better job for you and be more receptive
to your requirements.
How are the appliances and fixtures chosen for the house? Some
builders determine a budgeted amount for appliances and fixtures and
"allow" the homeowner to choose from a limited selection of items.
Other builders will escort the homeowner(s) to various manufacturer’s showrooms
to discuss the selections which are available. If the homeowner has the time to
comparative shop on his own, the latter situation will prove more rewarding,
adding to the individuality of the custom home.
Homes under construction: When you walk through a home that
is under construction, you'll need to make written and mental notes about a number
of things. Listen to the contractor as he points out various unique features contained
in the house.
A) Building techniques and quality of structure:
The well-decorated interior wall might be hiding a surprise.
Shabbily built homes can look wonderful with new coat of paint. If you educate
yourself, you can ask some intelligent questions as this point.
B) While at the construction site, observe the relationship
between the builder and the sub-contractors (the individuals who are actually working
on the house). A builder who maintains a good working and professional relationship
with the subcontractors will be most able to control the quality of the subcontractors
work. However, don‘t rule out a builder it you observe a poor attitude with one
of the "subs". Everyone can have a bad day and we all know there ARE
jerks in the world.
If your tour is interrupted when the builder is required to
oversee a situation, you can ask a brief, casual question to the "subs"
nearest you. Their verbal and non-verbal responses will tell you a great deal.
C) Is the construction site orderly and clean?
A clean building site doesn't insure a well built house. It
does show that the subcontractors are proud of their work and respect the builder
and the homeowner. Cleaning up the building site is one expense that can be kept
to a minimum if the subcontractors cooperate in the effort. Delay of a building
project because of accidents due to hazardous surroundings can increase the
building costs and decrease the quality of structure.
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