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How to Choose a Builder

The most important aspects of choosing a builder are establishing trust and a shared vision. These steps will help you find the right professional for your job.
1
Ask friends and neighbors
Ask your neighbors, friends and co-workers for referrals.
2
Check licenses and insurance
Be certain the builder(s) you are considering are licensed and insured.
3
Research your builders
Inquire about builders with a local Consumer Affairs Office or Better Business Bureau.
4
Associations & affiliations
Is your builder a member of the National Association of Home Builders?
5
Specialization & certifications
Look for a builder with special certifications like an NAHB Designation or Green Builder 
6
Get multiple estimates
Meet with at least three insured/licensed builders to get written estimates.
7
Come prepared & organized
Prepare a description of the project and your expectations prior to meeting a builder.
8
Consistency Is key
Share the same information with each builder.
9
Double check estimates
Ensure all requests are included and the price is based on the complete project.
We use James Hardie on all of our developments, and we use several architectural styles and colors to give our homes a diverse look.
Ethan Landis is President of Engle Homes.
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Meeting with a Builder

James Hardie looks to NAHB, the National Association of Home Builders for insight on how to best select a builder. NAHB suggests asking these questions to the builders you meet:

Credentials

Do you have any educational designations or certifications, such as a Certified Graduate Builder (CGB) or Graduate Master Builder (GMB)

Events

Do you have any home shows or open houses coming up that we can attend?

Experience

What are some addresses of your recently built homes and subdivisions?

Inspiration

Do you have any model homes or renderings to give us ideas on how to design our custom home?

References

Can you provide names of some homeowners who would be willing to talk?

Trade Associations

What local and/or national trade associations do you belong to?

James Hardie Experience

What is your experience using exterior solutions by James Hardie: Hardie® siding with ColorPlus® Technology, Hardie® trim boards, Hardie® soffit and Hardie® Weather Barrier?

For more information on the National Association of Home Builders, visit www.nahb.org.