If you've made the decision to build a home, now is the perfect time to start building your check list.

Even if you haven't yet purchased the land, or reviewed detailed floor plans, we suggest that you start by consulting with builders. To insure a successful building project, a relationship of trust must be established between the builder and the homeowner. We encourage you to take the time to review the building process and your personal expectations, before entering into this long term relationship of trust.

It has often been said that building a home includes 40,000 decisions. Before you begin the decision making process... it is wise to do a little research. For example we suggest that you review the environmental conditions that are unique to our area. Learn about snow load, expansive soils, water, septic and year-round accessibility. Consult with different architects or designers that are familiar with these changing conditions. Talk to industry professionals and contact the area builder's association. Read books and trade journals. Review the general price ranges for local sources of labor, materials and the mechanical systems required for your new home, such as plumbing, heating and electrical.

When you have chosen your building site, it is essential that you define the building style that suits you, your budget and the unique character of the land.

Right from the beginning, we recommend that you start building a "wish list". Your wish list will help you create a distinction between your "needs" and your " wants".

Combining your choice of home style, your budget and your wish list, will help refine your search for the appropriate builder for your needs.

Consider the following questions to ask a builder and a builder's references

Questions to Ask a Builder:
1. Do you have building experience with the topography of the lot location?
2. How many homes do you build per year?
3. What types of homes do you build?
4. Where are these homes located?
5. Are your Worker's Compensation and Liability Insurance Policies current?
6. Are you willing to customize building plans?
7 . Do you actively participate in continued education in your trade?
8 . Do you furnish references from homeowners and trade contractors with whom you have worked?

Questions to Ask a Builder's Reference:
1. Would you recommend this builder?
2. Was this builder available for communication and easy to work with?
3. Were you satisfied with the quality of the work?
4. Were you satisfied with safety on the job and cleanliness of the jobsite during the process?
5. Did the builder provide satisfactory follow up work? Was a warranty program provided?

Additional sources for builder information:
1. The local building department has a list of registered contractors in the area.
2. Inquire with architects for recommended builders in your location.
3. Request that banks offer a list of their approved contractors.
4. Ask friends, neighbors and co-workers about their building experiences.

Be aware that competent and reputable builders will often provide very similar bids. If you choose a builder based on a lower bid, you may be agreeing to substandard quality materials and labor. You may experience additional costs later on in the process. It is essential that you communicate your expectations and ask questions in the beginning, rather than after the fact.