12 questions you need to ask your potential builder
Ready to get started on your first home journey?
Building your first home is one of the most exciting life events you’ll ever experience. It’s also one of your most significant investments. You need to be confident that your build experience will be easy, high-quality and affordable.
So how do you know which builder you can trust? We spoke to New Homes Consultant, Nunzio Bagnato to run through 12 key questions to ask any potential builder before you sign on the dotted line:
Homebuyers Centre New Homes Consultant, Nunzio Bagnato
1. How many years have you been in operation?
Builders that have been in operation for some time will know what it takes to build a home. They’ll have a clear understanding of the construction process, and the systems and expert teams needed to get your build completed on time and on budget. ‘Homebuyers Centre, for example, has been making first homes happen for our customers since 1991 – that’s 32 years of building experience!,’ says New Homes Consultant Nunzio Bagnato.
2. How many customers have you helped get into new homes?
Builders that have been in operation for some time will know what it takes to build a home. They’ll have a clear understanding of the construction process, and the systems and expert teams needed to get your build completed on time and on budget. ‘Homebuyers Centre, for example, has been making first homes happen for our customers since 1991 – that’s 32 years of building experience!,’ says New Homes Consultant Nunzio Bagnato.
3. Do you offer finance options?
Construction loans are structured quite differently from other loans. Rather than your entire loan being released at once, the money is released in stages as your build progresses. You also generally pay interest only on the loan amounts until you get your keys. These subtle differences mean it’s important that your mortgage broker specialises in construction loans. Ask your builder if they offer an in-house finance service. If they do, are they an awarded and reputable company that you can trust?
‘For Homebuyers Centre, this in-house service is provided by Resolve Finance,’ explains Nunzio.
‘They can answer all of your loan and deposit questions. They’ll also figure out if you qualify for any government grants or concessions.’
4. I don’t have land – can you assist in finding me a suitable block?
Finding a suitable block of land can be challenging. Factors such as shape, size, and orientation will impact how much you’ll pay and the floorplan you can choose.
‘With the building industry booming, it can be difficult to secure the right block of land in the right suburb, close to freeways and facilities,’ says Nunzio.
‘It pays to have a land expert in your corner. Homebuyers Centre have fantastic relationships with some of Victoria’s best land developers. This means we often get exclusive or early access to some of the best blocks in the most sought-after estates.’
Ask your builder if they can help you to find a suitable block and hold your hand throughout the purchase process.
5. Do the finishes in your display homes come as standard?
Many builders will create higher-spec display homes to attract customers. Unfortunately, many of the fixtures and finishes used in display homes are upgrades and will cost you more to include in your own home. Love the look of a display home? Make sure you ask the builder which materials come included in the fixed price and which attract a higher cost.
6. Are site works costs fixed?
Site works refer to preparing your block for construction. This might include levelling works, removal of trees and bringing in soil to create a solid foundation. Site works can quickly blow your budget if your builder underestimates the costs. Always ask your builder what’s included in your site works quotes.
‘There’s a big difference between a ‘site costs estimate’ and fixed site works. Many builders will offer an estimate that fails to include factors such as neighbouring properties and electricity connection,’ says Nunzio.
7. Which brands do you use?
Look for builders who work with long-standing and reputable brands. Many builders will reduce costs by working with cheaper alternatives. Unfortunately, many of these products are not designed to withstand Australian climates and are difficult to maintain. ‘At Homebuyers, we only work with brands we know and trust,’ says Nunzio. ‘This includes Reece tapware, Westinghouse appliances and Caesarstone benchtops for quality finishes that will stand the test of time.’
8. What relationships have you fostered?
Often, it’s about who you know – not just what you know! A good builder will have fostered relationships with trusted suppliers, land developers and trades. You can leverage these relationships to secure the best and most affordable deals.
‘A builder’s relationship with their trades is particularly important in this market. The better the relationship, the less likely it is that you’ll experience delays during construction,’ says Nunzio.
9. How often can I visit site during the construction period?
Ask your builder how often you’ll be able to visit and inspect site during the construction period.
‘Make sure you ask your builder whether any of these site inspections will include a walk through of the build,’ says Nunzio.
‘At Homebuyers Centre, you’ll meet your Site Supervisor on site at all stages of your build, from slab down to completion.’
10. What are warranty period and aftercare services?
In Australia, all new builds have a 6-year structural guarantee. However, most builders provide only a 90-day service period. Homebuyers Centre offers a 25-year structural guarantee along with 12-month service warranty.
‘Such a short service period means that your home doesn’t experience all four Australian seasons. Seasonal changes in temperature and humidity can cause minor paint cracks, for example,’ says Nunzio.
‘That’s why Homebuyers offers a 12-month service warranty. If any of these minor issues come up, we will fix them quickly and free of charge!’
11. How long is the average pre-construction and construction timeframe?
The time it takes to build your home will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of your home. However, asking your potential builders about their average pre-construction and construction timeframe will give you a good idea of their efficiency.
‘For Homebuyers, the average pre-construction time is three to five months. Most first homebuyers receive their keys about 260 to 290 days after construction begins,’ adds Nunzio.
12. Can I see your most recent customer reviews?
The best advocates for any building company are their own customers. A former customer’s experience of their build journey, is likely what you’ll also experience. Homebuyers Centre has a whole section of their website dedicated to customers stories and reviews.
Speak to us today to get started.
Are you ready to build your first home with a reputable builder with 32 years of industry experience? Reach out to one of our friendly New Homes Consultants today for an obligation-free chat.