Choosing the right builder can be difficult, but the results are well worth the effort.  Don’t rush this step.  A good builder will use his experience to make sure things go smoothly, ensuring that you get the service you want.  Before making any phone calls, put some thought into both your project and your budget.

What to look for when choosing a builder.  Ask yourself these questions.  If you are not satisfied with the answers you might consider selecting another contractor.

1. Do they return your phone calls promptly – Nothing can say more about a company than how well they deal with returning customer phones calls and staying in-touch with the homeowner.
2. Do they stick to their appointments – Things always seem to come up when they are least expected, sometimes it can’t be helped.  One missed appointment is probably acceptable as long as the builder did his best to contact the homeowner prior to missing the appointment.
3. How was their presentation – Product knowledge is hard to fake.  Feel free to ask as many questions as you need to.  A good builder knows that well informed consumers turn into satisfied customers.
4. Is the builder bidding the job you are looking for, or the one he would like you to do – A good contractor will listen, figure out your intended goals, and advise you on how to best accomplish them.
5. Does you builder inspire confidence – He should provide intelligent ideas, creative thinking, and good advise.  His knowledge and experience may tell him that there is a better, more cost-effective way to complete the project, which can ultimately provide more job for the money.
6. Can you trust him/her – This person that you will hire will be working on and around your home and family.
7. Do you actually like him – Good builders are never pushy, arrogant, or hard to talk to.  Look for someone that is reasonably relaxed and not in a big rush.  Choose someone that encourages your ideas and enjoys your input.  Always try to maintain an open mind and listen to suggestions, after all, it is his trade and business experience that you are really paying for.

• How long has your company been in business?
• Contractor’s License Number?  Are they registered with the TRCC?
• Is the builder insured for liability?
• What is the builder’s status with their financial institutions?
• What is the builder’s credit status?  Will he reveal a credit report?
• Does the builder pay all subcontractors on time, in accordance to work performed?  Ask for referrals from subcontractors.
• Can the builder display long term working relationships with their subcontractors and suppliers?
• Can the builder provide references for both projects and suppliers?
• What is the builder’s record for completing projects on time?
• Does the builder visit the worksite daily?
• Has the builder ever been involved in a dispute that led to litigation, arbitration or mediation?
• Is the builder a member of a local builders association?

After you ask your questions, it will become obvious which company you should choose.  The company that wants your business will prove to you they are the best builder to do your work.  Take you time to decide which builder you would like to use—but when you decide, you must be loyal to them.