How to Choose a Great Home Builder

Choosing the right builder is not just crucial but also practical for a successful home construction project.

Understanding what a builder does and how to find a trustworthy builder will impact the quality, efficiency, and satisfaction of your new home build.

This guide will provide essential insights into your builder's role, key factors to consider when choosing a builder, and tips to avoid dodgy builders:

Understanding What a Builder Does

The Roles and Responsibilities of a Builder

Builders play a critical role in managing and coordinating the entire home construction process.

They ensure the project adheres to local building codes and regulations, oversee subcontractors, manage timelines, and handle materials procurement. Essentially, they are the project managers who bring your home vision to life.

Types of Builders: Volume vs. Custom Builders

When finding a builder, you’ll probably encounter two main types: volume builders and custom builders.

• Volume Builders: These large companies construct hundreds of homes per year from a standard catalogue of designs.

• Custom Builders: Often smaller companies that build homes specifically designed for clients, often completing fewer projects annually.

Each type has its pros and cons. For example, volume builders offer affordability and efficiency, while custom builders can provide personalised designs and attention to detail.

Key Factors to Consider When Finding a Builder

Reputation and References

Check reviews and speak with past clients to gauge a builder's reputation.

You can seek references from family and friends who have had direct experiences; however, be cautious of referrals from friends of friends, as these connections might not be as reliable.

A good reputation is a strong indicator of a builder's reliability and quality of work. A common website people go to regarding builder experience is productreview.com.au.

Volume Builders Incorrect Perceptions

As detailed earlier, volume builders do deliver hundreds of homes a year. The main benefit is you are leveraging their buying power, allowing them to deliver you a home at a more cost-effective price than a custom builder.

The perception of volume builders making no changes is an old misnomer! As long as you work within their parameters, volume builders can provide numerous floor plan choices. As an example, JG King Homes offers over 1,000 floor plan choices across its 116 standard floor plans. Such floor plan choices include making a garage bigger, converting living rooms into additional bedrooms, larger showers, larger alfrescos (in some cases adding an alfresco to a home that does not have one), rear flipping the back part of your home, and to better deal with orientation.

In other words, do not be too hasty to dismiss a volume builder, as the cost savings can be significant, especially if you find your dream home within their repertoire. Save on your new home build and leave more money to spend on furnishing your dream home once it is complete.

Builder’s Financial Stability

Financial stability is crucial when selecting a builder.

In today’s competitive housing market, some builders might cut prices to stay busy, which isn't sustainable long-term. Ensure your builder has a sound financial foundation to avoid potential project delays or failures.

You can verify a builder's financial health through online credit reference agencies.

Builder Experience and Specialisation

Choosing a builder with experience in your specific type of project is vital.

For example, if you’re planning a new home, a builder specialising in renovations might not be the best fit. Explore their previous work to ensure they have the necessary skills.

Learn more about what sets us apart from other builders here.

How to Avoid Dodgy Builders

Warning Signs of Dodgy Builders

Watch out for these red flags that may indicate a dodgy builder:

• Unclear or incomplete contracts

• Demands for large upfront payments

• Lack of a fixed business address

• Poor online reviews or no reviews at all

• Reluctance to provide references

• Unwillingness to sign a contract

• High-pressure sales tactics

• No proof of insurance

• Poor communication or evasiveness

Checking Registration and Licences

Beware of builders who are not transparent about their legal permissions. At a minimum, they should have Public Liability Insurance and Home Building Compensation. Check with organisations like the Housing Industry of Australia (HIA) or the Master Builders of Australia (MBA) for a list of registered builders.

You can verify their licences through your state’s fair trading or consumer affairs department. For more details on our commitment to quality and warranty, visit our 50-year warranty page.

Making an Informed Decision About Your Builder

Comparing Builder’s Quotes and Contracts

Points to consider when comparing quotes and contracts are:

• Project Scope: Is there a clearly defined scope of work to avoid unexpected costs and delays?

• Costs: Ask for itemised costs and be wary of extremely low bids.

• Inclusions and Exclusions: Understand what's included and what isn't to avoid additional costs.

• Payment Schedule: Can you align your payment schedule with project milestones to avoid large upfront payments?

• Warranties and Guarantees: Check terms for peace of mind.

• Change Orders: Request their process for handling changes or additional work.

• Dispute Resolution: Check there is a transparent process for resolving disputes.

Building a Relationship with Your Builder

Start with clear communication and set expectations for regular updates.

Treat your builder respectfully, clearly outline roles, and solve unexpected issues flexibly. Keep thorough documentation of all communications and agreements. It is essential to be transparent about your needs, ensure fair payment schedules, and consider incentives for meeting or exceeding expectations.

Your Path to a Successful Build With JG King Homes

Choosing the right builder involves careful consideration of their roles, reputation, financial stability, and experience.

You can ensure a successful, efficient, and satisfying home-building experience by avoiding dodgy builders and making informed decisions.

Take the first step towards your dream home with us: Enquire now.