Selecting a Builder

Prior to contracting a homebuilder for your dream home, you need to do some preliminary homework. Check out potential builder's credit history and references. Visiting homes completed by the builder will enable you to see, first hand, the quality and craftsmanship the builder delivers. Remember when viewing a builders' model home, that they are showing their best work. If possible, talk with previous customers about there experiences. Some things to look for include:

• Checking out the builder's foundation methods. Generally, a poured concrete foundation provides a better basement than concrete blocks-but, in some areas of the country builder's use one or the other exclusively. All foundations should include some type of waterproofing system. A circumference type drainage system should be included.
  
• Observe the quality of the cuts made by the framer. Rafters should be tightly joined with uniform angles. Wall studs should not be warped and should be equally spaced and straight.
• Drywall board should be screwed, not nailed. Nailed board will almost always show "nail pops" over time.
• House wrap should be used to reduce "windwashing". The house wrap should be taped with no spaces around openings such as windows and doors.
• All openings to the exterior should be caulked or insulated.
• Check that windows and doors work smoothly. Overuse of foam insulation can cause warping leading to sticky windows and doors.
• Floor joists should be solid with cutouts no larger than 1/3 of the joist width present.
• Check the basement walls for dampness and efflorescence.
  
• Gutters and downspouts should be secure. Downspouts should extend at least 6' away from the foundation. Each downspout should not serve more than 30' of gutter.
• Roof shingles should be flat and straight.
• Ventilation of the attic space should measure at least 1/300 of the floor space. At least 50% of the ventilation should come from the soffit vents.
• Siding should be straight and flat.
• Check that finished walls and ceilings are straight, flat, and not wavy
• Interior molding should fit tight against the walls, floors, and ceilings. Angled joints should be neat and tight without the use of fillers and caulk.
• Flooring and stairs should be secure with no movement or squeaks.
• Carpet seams should be invisible. Hardwood flooring should be uniform and tight. Flush hardwood registers are a sign of high quality craftsmanship.
• Paint on walls and ceilings should be uniform, even, and smooth. The gloss level across the surface should not vary. Look for complete coverage.
• Electrical wiring, plumbing, and ducts should be neat. Labeling of these items is a sign of a builder who values craftsmanship.
• Check for water supply shutoffs at each sink and toilet
• Check for water supply shutoffs in the basement supply lines for each item supplied.

Assume nothing. Open lines of communication between the builder and the buyer are key to satisfaction.