1. Define Your Needs & New Construction Home Budget
2. Research Home Builders in Your Area & Visit Model Homes
3. Ask Good Questions When You Meet with Home Building Companies
4. Get Confirmation About New Construction Customization Options
5. Check the Home Builders’ Credentials & Licensing
6. Check the Home Builders’ References
7. Assess Communication & Transparency
8. Understand the Warranty and After-sales Service
9. Compare New Home Quotes & Contracts
10. Look for a Building Company that Manages Every Detail For You

1. Define Your Needs & New Construction Home Budget

Before you start looking for a home builder, clearly outline your needs, preferences, and budget constraints. Consider the size of the home, architectural style, number of rooms, and any specific features or amenities you desire. Establishing a realistic budget with your mortgage broker will guide your choices and ensure you find a builder who can finish the home within your financial parameters.

2. Research Home Builders in Your Area & Visit Model Homes

Take the time to research home builders in your area. Search for those with a solid reputation, high-quality specs and workmanship, positive reviews, and a portfolio that aligns with your vision.

One of the best ways to learn about local home builders aside from viewing websites is to visit their display homes and meet their teams. It is invaluable to see a builder’s work firsthand and get a feel for the company’s morale and communication style.

• Visit model homes for insight into craftsmanship, unique features, and attention to detail.
• Pay attention to the quality of materials used, the overall design, and the level of finish.
• Ask questions and notice how helpful their salespeople are.
• Query recommendations from friends and family, your local mortgage broker and real estate professionals.
• Explore online reviews, testimonials, and the Better Business Bureau.

3. Ask Good Questions When You Meet with Home Building Companies

• Do you need to present loan approval documentation to sit with a salesperson and get an estimate?
• How accurate is the estimate and is there a budget allowance for unforeseen costs?
• Is the first estimate your final price or is there another step to get to the final estimate?
• How much of a deposit do you need?
• Do you need a construction loan?
• How much flexibility is allowed in the home’s layout and design?
• When does the estimate turn into the Builder’s Agreement or Contract?
• Do you need to bring architectural drawings or are they provided?
• Do you need an interior designer or is one provided?
• What is the builder’s step-by-step process?
• What happens when something changes or isn’t going to plan?
• What about the timing from the start to the move-in date?
• How many people will be involved in your project?
  What will you be expected to do?
• Who will you be working directly with at the company?
• What happens if the project runs behind schedule?
• How will you know when it’s time to get a closing date scheduled?
• What is under warranty and for how long?
• Who performs the warranty work if there is an issue?
• Do they build in communities only or will they build anywhere?

4. Get Confirmation About New Construction Customization Options

If you have a specific vision for your home, inquire about the builders’ new construction customization options. Many builders offer a few home design templates with very little room for change, so find a builder that offers maximum flexibility. A good builder should be willing to work with you to create a home that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Ask about the range of home design choices, upgrades, and any limitations, and get written confirmation that the changes you require will be built into your home.

5. Check the Home Builders’ Credentials & Licensing

Verify that the builders you’re considering are licensed and insured. This not only ensures they meet the legal requirements but also indicates a commitment to professionalism and quality work. Check if they are members of local or national home builder associations, as this often signifies adherence to industry standards.

6. Check the Home Builders’ References

Now that you’ve narrowed your selection, request references from the home builders’ clients and follow up with them. Ask about their experiences, any challenges faced, and whether the builders delivered on time and within budget. Most importantly, ask if they like their home and about the quality of the build. A reputable builder should be willing to provide references and have a track record of satisfied customers. Check out reviews on online platforms and read or view testimonials.

7. Assess Communication & Transparency

8. Understand the Warranties & After-Sales Service

A builder’s warranty is a critical aspect of the home-building process. Understand the terms of the builders’ warranties and the duration. Additionally, inquire about their after-sales service and how they handle any issues that may arise after you move in.

9. Compare New Home Quotes & Contracts

Once you’ve shortlisted a couple of builders, compare quotes and contracts. Pay attention to the details, including the scope of work, how involved you will need to be, payment schedules, timelines, and process policies. Ensure that everything is documented to avoid misunderstandings and get answers to your questions before you sign the final Build Agreement.

10. Look for a Building Company that Manages Every Detail For You

• Inquire about the designated point of contact for the physical construction — whether it’s a single person or a team.
• Check if the builder employs a Closing Coordinator or an individual responsible for streamlining all paperwork and clarify the extent of their responsibilities.
• Understand the level of your required involvement to ensure a timely closing.

Handling requests, maintaining communication with the construction company, and facilitating necessary documents for the real estate agent, title company, and lender can encroach upon your work, family, and leisure time, inducing considerable stress.

To eliminate the stress, confusion, and overwhelm, CMS Homes in Troy, Missouri, employs Emily Wilson, an in-house Closing Coordinator. She helps clients with the massive undertaking of paperwork and deadlines. She works behind the scenes with dozens of professionals, manages hundreds of steps throughout the home-building process, and ensures our clients get to the closing table on time with ease.

Additionally, CMS Homes’ highly experienced Project Managers handle every aspect of the physical build and communicate regularly with each homeowner, so they are never left wondering at what stage their home build is in and if everything is going well. We strive to help our valued clients carry on with life by eliminating the chore of daily project paperwork and home-building management. We’ve been told these services are priceless!

Trust Your Instincts When It Comes to Partnering with a Home Builder

Build a New Home with Confidence with CMS Homes

If you live within 30-35 miles of Troy, MO, and you’re ready to build your dream house with confidence, follow the 10 steps in this blog and be sure to contact CMS Homes today for a no-obligation, comprehensive estimate. We look forward to meeting you!