Questions to Ask Your Home Builder

On average, Americans spend 65 percent of their time in their homes. If you're going to be spending that much time in one place, you want to make sure it's safe, comfortable, and going to stand the test of time. Relying on somebody else to build your dream home is a scary thing, but it must be done. Here are a few questions to ask your home builder to ensure that you're getting somebody who's ethical, customer-oriented and will do a good job.

Q. Are they an HBA member?

Find out what organizations your home builder is a part of. Many associations, like the Home Builders Association, have very strict policies for members. If your builder is a member, then you know they're held to a higher standard.

Q. What is their policy on Energy Star homes?

Not only do Energy Star homes lower greenhouse emissions and help the environment, but they also save their owners a lot of money on energy bills. In 2005, Energy Star homeowners saved $12 billion on their utility bills. Some builders build 100 percent Energy Star homes; others don't. Find out what your builder will do.

Q. What kinds of insurance does the builder carry?

It is very important that your builder carry at least three types of insurance: personal liability, worker's compensation and property damage. If your builder doesn't carry these types of insurance, you may be held liable for injuries or damage that occur on the job. Be sure to ask!

Q. Do they offer a guarantee?

There are a hundred things that can change your ability to purchase a home. If you lose your job, or are unable to sell your old home, or if there are problems with the builder, you might want to back out. Ask your builder if they have a money-back guarantee, so that you're not left holding the bill for a product you're not happy with. For example, PMC Homes of Tulsa offers a 100 percent money-back guarantee if their customers are not satisfied.

Q. How long have they been in business?

Not that it's bad to go with a relatively young company, but if you go for a builder who's been in business for 15 or 20 years, you know you're with somebody who has the quality to stick around that long.

Q. What have their previous clients said about the builder?

Any builder should be proud to show off their previous homes and happy clients. See if you can talk to a few and find out how they felt about the home-building process.

Building a home can seem a daunting process, but it doesn't have to be scary. Don't be afraid to ask your builder questions, and if you're not satisfied with the answers, go look elsewhere. In the end, it's your home they're building.

PMC Homes is Tulsa's premier new home builder and has been building home owners' dreams for 20 years. They are known for quality construction, service and warranties as well as many home design innovations. They pride themselves on excellent craftsmanship and close attention to the needs and desires of their customers. For more information on building your dream home from a builder with 20 years of experience, visit PMCHomes.com.

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