Choosing a New Home Builder
Posted on 07. Jul, 2011 by Manu Sharma in Buying, Market Insights
When looking at new home builders, it is important to note that the builder does not complete all of the work themselves. A quick trip to any new home construction site and you will see trucks with any number of company logos, and many of them at competing home builder’s job sites.
A home builder will use a variety of project managers, construction managers, labourers, subcontractors, and other suppliers to build the home. In many cases the home builder will operate as a General Contractor, hiring and scheduling specialized help from subcontractors (or Trades) to complete tasks in the building of your house. With this, much of the quality of your home will rely on the quality of the project and time management, and the builder’s capacity to manage the in-process construction and completed product.
I asked a few of the large Ottawa home builder’s representatives (in their sales offices) why I would select them over other builders. The answers came back:
1) Construction Experience
2) Location
3) Style
4) Specifications
The specifications, as the items that are included with the house were last. The included specifications can be a bit difficult to dig up, however I was able to get standard build details from a number of builders, which would allow you to create a direct comparison if required. This being said, the home builders also offer a dizzying array of upgrade options that can completely customize any home. I went through the specification comparison process a few years back when I bought my last home, and found that there were some differences, however the actual components used were similar with competitive houses.
So, where does this leave us, if the builders use the similar materials, and similar subcontractors outside of location and style? Warranty! Basically relying on the quality of the brand in supporting its product. Like all products warranty support, and responsiveness will definitely make a difference in your overall enjoyment of the product. Be sure to check with BBB ratings, and speak to a friend about their home buying experience before you make your final decision!
