CHOOSING A BUILDER

If you are like most people, buying a home will be one of the most significant decisions you will make. And unless you are extremely wealthy, it will also be one of the biggest financial commitments you will undertake. As such, you want to be as sure as you can that you are not going to get any nasty surprises in the process and one of the ways to help achieve that is to make sure that the property you are buying is from a reputable builder. Set out below are a few guidelines on what you should look for when choosing a builder from whom to purchase your dream home.

History
Look at the past performance of the company. How long have they been in business? How much experience do they have? Have they grown over the years or has the company remained stagnant? Of course, past performance provides no guarantee about the future, but generally speaking, a company that has been in business for some time and that has grown over the years is obviously doing things right.

Previous projects
Take a look at some of the past projects that the company has constructed. Speak to owners and residents and learn what their experiences were like. Most people are happy to help if asked to, and since purchasing a house is a decision that you will have to live with for many years to come, time spent now will be well worth it in the long run.

Reputation
What sort of a reputation does the company have? What do its customers say? Did the company behave in an upright and ethical manner in its dealings? Has the company successfully delivered what it promised its customers? If a customer had a complaint about something, was the company helpful in trying to resolve the issue? Once again, speak to existing owners of properties built by the company and satisfy yourself that the company you are considering buying from is one whom you would be happy to do business with.

Customer service
Is the sales staff of the company helpful? Do they answer your questions openly and honestly or are they being evasive? Do they return your calls promptly or do you end up doing all the running around to get hold of them? Are you welcomed into their office if you wish to visit? Knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff usually indicates that the company provides a good, open and honest working environment and this is another indicator that the company is trustworthy.

Memberships of Associations
Is the company an active member of local industry associations and bodies? Is it working to improve conditions for itself and its customers? Is it committed to maintaining quality standards and transparency in business? Active participation and promotion of such ideals usually indicates a company's long-term commitment to the industry in which it operates. These companies recognise that to succeed over the long-term they must continue to push towards higher standards and will often be found at the forefront of industry development.

You can and should take the necessary steps to satisfy yourself that they company you will be dealing with is one that is honest, professional and competent. Your final decision will be one that you will live with for many years, so do all you can to make sure that the future will be all you wish it to be.