When it comes to building a home, everyone wants a high-quality build and an unforgettable building experience. However, it is often the experience that determines whether you will look back on your building project with fondness or frustration.
So how can you avoid a nightmare?
Or, at the other extreme, how do you get an unforgettable building experience that exceeds all your expectations while also bringing to life the vision you have for your build?
Set Reasonable Expectations
Often, consumers are not completely aware what to expect when building or renovating. They might unknowingly settle for a less-than-ideal experience purely because they don’t realise that a top-calibre build is a possibility. This lack of awareness becomes a problem because clients are unable to communicate and demand the level of service required to create a successful building experience tailored specifically to cater to their expectations.
On the other hand, there are also those whose expectations are pegged impossibly high. In this case, it is important to research and arm yourself with pertinent information to understand the intricacies involved in the design and build process. This will allow you to understand what this will entail in terms of time, money, and energy.
While getting a build is not hard, it does require intention. Many builders are able to deliver excellent service. Why else would they have started a business? The challenge comes at the ability to combine top-notch workmanship with a truly pleasurable building experience. And, as a consumer, this is where your diligence should lie.
Establish Trust and Effective Communication
The key to an unforgettable building experience is cultivating a meaningful relationship between the client and the builder. This is why engaging with your builder early and actively involving them in the design process is crucial. It provides an opportunity for you to initiate this relationship prior to committing to a legal binding contract and avoiding the risk of “getting to bed” with an incompatible builder.
Everyone is always looking for a builder they can trust, but without the time and opportunity to explore this relationship, how do you know it’s going to work?
Research is essential in avoiding a nightmare experience. When doing your research, here are some specific things you should look out for:
- Active listening and eagerness to collaborate
This requires more than just hearing your words but, more importantly, truly understanding the vision you have for your home. A professional builder should take the time to engage in meaningful conversations and ask insightful questions. The acknowledgement of your why and the full understanding of what you’re hoping to achieve out of the home is paramount to help you manifest what you truly want.
- Alignment of core values and vision
Building a home is a long, intimate, and personal journey. Shared values between you and the builder will foster a strong foundation for a meaningful collaboration. Look for a builder who shares your commitment to quality, communication, professionalism, and family. Their approach to design, craftsmanship, and customer service should resonate with your own values, ensuring a harmonious working relationship throughout the project.
- An understanding of your builder’s motivation: Why do they do what they do?
A builder who is genuinely passionate about what they do will bring an unmatched level of dedication and enthusiasm to your project. Take the time to explore the builder’s background, experience, and character. Understand why they chose to be in the industry and what drives them to deliver exceptional results. Their website is typically overflowing with these messages so that’s always a good place to start.
- A proven track record that reflects your goals
A builder who tries to build everything for everyone should be a red flag. Look for concrete proof that they are capable of the kind of quality build that you are aiming for. You don’t want to become the test dummy for a new builder’s first project. Look for testimonials, case studies, and active social media accounts. A professional builder will not be shy to show off all the amazing work he has done in the past and should have a library of happy clients sharing their own amazing experiences with them.
So How Do You Build A Relationship With A Builder You Don’t Know?
It’s simple—invest time in getting to know each other!
From the start, both you and the builders should actively be engaged in the design process. This part of the build is a unique opportunity to get to know each other without the commitment of a building contract locking you in. This time together will give you an insight as to how the builder operates, how they communicate, and how they respond to your invaluable inputs—ultimately giving you a glimpse into whether or not taking on a project together will be fruitful.
If you and the builder are not a good fit, don’t force the connection. This cannot be overstated.
By following these tips, you can ensure a successful building project that you will fondly look back on and cherish for years to come. Finding the right builder is just one of the 6 Essential Things You Must Do For A Successful Home Renovation. Find out the other five by downloading our FREE guide!
