The decision to custom build a home can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you’ve ever custom built a home before or not, finding the right builder to partner with is a key to a successful build. So, among all the Kelowna home builders that are out there, how do you know which one is right for you?
There are many great Kelowna home builders to choose from but finding the one who will be an ideal partner for your home build, requires some time and energy to ensure you’re engaging the right builder for you. Here are 3 steps to follow to help ensure you have an enjoyable and successful home building experience and avoid the all-too family construction horror stories.
Timing is critical and the best time to engage your builder is before you begin the design phase or very soon after engaging an architect/designer. You will want to find a Kelowna home builder who has a proven track record for ensuring your home’s design and your desired budget stay aligned. A great builder will also assist with the following during the design stage:
Start your search by seeking out positive custom build referrals by talking to people you trust – friends, family, neighbours, and real estate professionals. These conversations may flush up a stellar Kelowna home builder or just help you to understand what builders to avoid.
If these conversations don’t uncover any superstars, a specific Google search can provide a starting point but be sure to be specific. Look to include key words such as “award-winning” and jot down a list of about half a dozen builders that you find. Be sure to check their Google reviews and eliminate any with negative reviews or rating and finalize a list of 2-3 choices.
Face to face meetings will be your next step. For the 2 or 3 builders you’ve narrowed your search down to, you’re going to want to schedule an in-person meeting with each builder as well as visit their showhome, if they have one, or request to visit a completed home they have built and/or a current job site.
Face to face meetings will let you understand the organization’s processes and systems, strength of their team, and relevant experience and give you first-hand knowledge of their communication style and the personality of the builder and their team. Visiting their showhome or a completed home, will allow you to see firsthand an example of the quality of construction and finishes in their home.
Questions to consider asking at these meetings could include:
Before entering into an agreement, ask your short-listed Kelowna home builders to provide you with examples of the types of contracts they offer. You will want the builder to be able to explain their contract options to you (ie., Fixed Price or Cost-Plus Contract are the two most typical contract structures) as well as present the pros and cons of each option. You will also want to understand what kinds of deposits and payment structures will be required.
If you take the time to work through all three of these steps, you’ll get a good sense of how you feel about each Kelowna home builder on your shortlist and how you think it would be to work with them. Building Okanagan custom home is a lengthy, detailed project and you want to feel really good about the builder you select as you’re going to spend a lot of time with them.