Your family home is the single largest investment you will make in your lifetime.

The Home Builders Association of Southwest Louisiana encourages engaging the professional services of a state licensed, fully insured, experienced home builder and does not endorse or recommend the practice of self-contracting one's own home.

We know for a fact that all of the major sub-contractors and material suppliers actually charge a higher price to self-contractors than they do licensed builders. And they put self-contractors at the bottom of the priority list when it comes to scheduling. They are much more likely to take care of the licensed builders, who give them several jobs a year, before a one time self-contractor building his own home.

For more information check the link in the side bar, just below the menu, for a detailed article about everything you need to be aware of when considering contracting you own home.

Make the right choice - hire an HBASWLA Builder member.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CUSTOM HOME BUILDER

Buying a new home is one of the most important investments you will make, and choosing the right builder is as important as the new home you select. The primary goal is to find a reputable builder that will deliver a high quality home that meets your own personal interests and needs. The following criteria can help you through the process of selecting the right custom home builder.

Criteria to Consider

Reputation

The best way to learn about builders is to visit homes they have built and talk with the owners. Check with the permit office for locations. A questionable builder will only give you references that he knows will be favorable.

Questions you should ask include:

• Are you happy with your home?

• Did the builder do what was promised in a timely manner?

• Did the builder listen to your requests?

• Was the builder responsive to your needs?

• Would you buy another home from this builder?

Quality of Work

When examining a home, inspect the quality of the finishes such as cabinetry, trim work, and paint. Ask the builder to review the list of custom features that are standard in each house as well as the safety features and product lines that are used. Always keep in mind that just because one home is less expensive than another does not mean it is a better value. Building a home requires incredible attention to detail and you should be confident that your builder values this philosophy.

Service

Review the warranty and find out what type of service you can expect after you move into your home. Some builders provide homeowners with comprehensive closing books. These helpful books provide valuable information including how to care for the new home, as well as warranty and maintenance information on each product or appliance within the home.

In Summary

Doing your homework and understanding how custom builders work will give you the confidence you need to correctly select a custom builder that's right for your own specific needs.