how to choose a log home builder

by Estemerwalt Log Homes

 

If you need major surgery, would you choose your doctor from the phone book? Chances are, you'd want to do a fair amount of research, given the importance of such a decision. While building a new home isn't a life-or-death situation, it is likely the largest expense you'll make in your lifetime – certainly a major event- and choosing the right builder can make all the difference. Here are some things to look for when interviewing and choosing a builder.

 

Production, Custom, or Systems Builders

Not all builders or contractors build the same types of homes. Just like in medicine, there are specialties. Production builders concentrate on a building a limited number of models with few, if any, modifications. Building the same plan time after time, they learn ways to streamline the purchasing and building process and can produce a more cost-effective home, though even minor changes or modifications can add significant cost.

 

True custom builders start each project from scratch, and rarely build the same plan twice. Custom homebuilding is in most cases a constant collaboration between the homeowner, the architect or designer and the builder. The process is often time and labor intensive, adding to the cost of the home.

 

If you're planning on building a systems-built home – log, modular, timber frame or panelized, for instance, you may want to find a builder that specializes in that specific style. "Each of these home types has its own unique method of construction," says Beth Reece of Estemerwalt Log Homes. "A builder that understands the process, how the materials are delivered and what site work is required will be able to build the home to the manufacture's specifications, and will save you time and money."

 

Where and What to Look For

Once you have an idea of the type of home that meets your needs, start looking for builders with experience in building homes similar to the type of home you want. A good place to start is your local Home Builders Association. Association members must meet and maintain professional standards in both the quality of their construction ethics. To find the Home Builders Association in your area, visit www.nahb.org. Click "About" at the top of the page, then click "Find your local builders' Association" in the column on the left of the page.

 

If you're building in a development or a neighborhood, look at the homes in the area that are most like what you're interested in and ask the homeowners for recommendations on local builders.

 

When asking homeowners for recommendations, ask questions that will help you ascertain the character of the builder as well as the quality of his work, such as whether the home was finished on time and budget, and how the builder was to work with. Did the builder keep the jobsite clean? Was work performed right the first time? Were the subcontractors and crews professional--respectful and presentable while on the site?

 

Estemerwalt Log Homes says, "If you are building a log home, look to your manufacturer for advice and referrals when it comes to builders who are experienced in building their homes." If they don't have a list, look for similar-style homes in your area and again, ask homeowners for referrals. The local building inspector may also be able to point you in the direction of systems-built homes in your area, and maybe even give you the names of the builders.

 

It may take a little digging, but with persistence you should be able to come up with a short list builders from which to choose. However, in the event that you can't find a builder in your area with experience in building the style home you want, many systems home manufactures have classes to teach builders how to work with their products. If you find a builder you like, but who has never built your style home, this may be a great option.

 

How to Choose

When you have compiled a list of contractors and /or builders that you feel are good candidates for your home. Sit down with each and go over exactly what you want in your home, the scope of your work you want them to perform, and work you wish to complete yourself. Also state your expectations regarding time frame, and what the home should look like when the builder is finished. Estemerwalt Log Homes adds, "the more specific you are in communicating to the builder what you want, the better. If you can give each candidate your plans and a list of the specifications that is complete and concise, you should get back bids that are comparable in scope." Then, it's up to you to compare each bid carefully and make a choice based on – among other things – materials, labor and price.

 

Remember: the lowest price isn't always the best bid; make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Even more important than the best price is the character of the builder and housing manufacturer, how well the two of you communicate, his or her commitment to giving you the home you want, the way you want it. It may be that that you find a builder that is qualified in every way, but the two of you just don't seem to "click" - you have trouble communicating, or you just don't feel comfortable that he or she sees your project the way you do. If you are just not comfortable, it may be best to look further.

 

Finally, before you sign a contract, make sure that the builder's construction contract includes all the appropriate insurance, particularly builder's risk, theft and workers compensation insurance. These are standard insurances, and may actually be required by law in your state.

 

Building a home is still the American Dream, and professional homebuilders lead and industry that continues to support the country's economy and helps tens of thousands of families each year realize that dream. By choosing the builder that matches your home style and personality, you too can have a home that your family will enjoy for years to come.

 

About Estemerwalt Log Homes

For five generations, the Propst family has set the standard for excellence for fine wood homes. We are a family run log home company, where we pride ourselves on personal service, friendly staff and precision craftsmanship. For more information on Estemerwalt Log Homes contact them at (800) 515-2060 or www.estemerwalt.com.

 

<< Return to Main Articles Page