Once you’ve made the decision to build your home with modular construction you may begin to ponder how to find the perfect builder who will meet all your needs. If you are feeling overwhelmed by all your choices, this article will help guide you toward the perfect partnership to build your dream home. The more educated you are about the industry, the more questions and details you can get out of your first meeting with your potential builder.
This is a relationship that should be considered very carefully as you will be working closely together for the foreseeable future.
Understand what the builder will do for you.
A modular home builder’s primary role is as your project manager and they will be the hub for the design, price and ordering of your home from a trusted manufacturer. It is important to note that the builder is independent from the modular manufacturer and holds all the necessary licenses and insurances to provide all the site related work. Many home builders offer services beyond this scope and can provide a more turn-key experience and handle all aspects of the project from permitting to finishing touches. Other home builders may have a more hands-off approach and guide you toward experienced vendors who will complete your home for you. Whichever approach you would like to take, make sure and ask your modular home builder the process they will use.
Purchase land and have financing plan in place.
Having these important steps completed can make your meeting with your potential builder more productive. Many homes are better suited to certain plots of land and your builder can help guide you in the right direction. Remember your builder will work as the project manager for the building of your dream home so coming in prepared will provide you with the best estimate possible in your initial stage of building.
Research builder’s experience and skillset.
You want an experienced builder who has built the type of home you want. Some builders focus on certain types of home within certain price ranges and some may only build in certain parts of the country while others may build nationwide.
Initial research into your future builder can be simple and easy. A straightforward internet search will show their website, what associations they are members of, and the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau. These are all important factors to consider before setting up an initial meeting.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Your first meeting with your potential builder is critical in setting the stage for the rest of your home building process. This is your first chance to ask all the questions you can think of and get answers that will comfort you through the homebuilding process. Feel free to delve deep into the complete process and ask about each stage of your home. Suggested questions include:
- Is there a set timeline you can follow for your home build?
- Is there any insurance if something should happen while your home is being built in the factory?
- What is the payment plan?
- Who will be your direct contact for the project?
- Are there any warranties on your home?
These general tips are just the first steps in your home building adventure. While it can be intimidating, MHBA members are more than willing to answer any and all questions you may have.
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