You have dozens, maybe even hundreds, of options when choosing a custom homebuilder in Portland, so how do you know which one will be the best fit for your project? It’s always a good idea to interview multiple builders before making such an important decision. As you talk to potential partners, make sure you cover all five of these key elements before you sign a contract:
1. Clear Budgets
For many people, the cost of building a custom home is a driving factor for decisions regarding the location, the design, and which builder to hire. Look for a builder who can deliver the home you want within your budget. Of course, the numbers must be realistic and achievable for your project to be possible, but not every builder will charge the same price for the same home.
If the budget is less of a constraint for you, that’s great! However, you still want to know that you’re getting the best value for your money. Any builder you work with should provide a comprehensive estimate that clearly states what is included and what is not. You should also have a good understanding of what will happen if the cost of the project increases. Will the builder keep your price the same? Is there a contingency? Are you responsible for certain unexpected expenses? A reliable builder will be able to have an open, honest conversation about the budget and what you can expect in various scenarios.
2. Experience in the Area
Building a custom home requires much more than just labor and materials. A lot goes on behind the scenes that many first-time homebuyers are not aware of. For example, the design must meet local building codes, which can vary by state and city. Also, the permitting process is also different for every area. A builder who is familiar with the regulatory processes in the location you are building can save you a lot of time and resources simply by having local knowledge.
Good local builders will also have established relationships with materials suppliers and subcontractors in the area. This means that you will get the benefits of better pricing for building materials and efficiency with field personnel who have worked together before. The longer a builder has been established in the Portland area, the more you will benefit.
3. Satisfied Customers
Ask potential builders to provide references and case studies so you can evaluate whether they are able to complete projects on time and on budget. Speak with former customers to get a better understanding of what it’s like to work with a particular builder. Ask what didn’t go well on the project and how the builder handled it. You can learn a lot from the hiccups as well as the successes. For example, if a builder encounters inclement weather during construction, what steps do they take to keep crews working, avoid delays, and communicate with you about a potential setback?
4. Quality Homes
Although budget is almost always a factor, you shouldn’t have to compromise on quality to get a beautiful home that you can afford. Ask builders what types of materials they use and how they ensure quality on a project. Look for well-known brands that have a track record of durability and craftsmanship. It’s a red flag if a builder says that they always source the cheapest materials to keep costs down.
Another important element to look for when evaluating quality in a builder is their inspection process. They should perform inspections at key points in the construction process to ensure that the project meets specifications.
5. Custom Design Options
Many builders offer floor plans but do not allow you to make any changes to them. While it might be possible to find the perfect floor plan, the chances of doing so are slim. Look for a builder that offers customizable floor plans so you can get the layout and features that best suit your family’s lifestyle. The more customization options a builder offers, the closer you will get to your dream home.
If you’re ready to choose a custom homebuilder in Portland, make sure Adair Homes is on your list. With almost 50 years of experience in the Pacific Northwest, we know how to design and build custom homes for every type of lifestyle and for every budget. Schedule a consultation with your local Home Ownership Counselor today to learn more about how to build your dream home with Adair.
