- 1). Call the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The NAHB is a membership association that represents home builders. Association membership often indicates a commitment to the industry and quality work. Call the association at 800-368-5242 to request a local membership directory. Create a list of builders that interest you from the directory to begin your research.
- 2). Contact the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The BBB's mission is to help businesses establish and maintain a good track record, according to the company website. As a result, the BBB keeps a record of complaints filed against companies. Contact your local BBB "See Resources" and request a complaint file for the builders you selected. Move forward with the builders who do not have complaints.
- 3). Call each of the builders you selected and researched to conduct an interview. Ask the tough questions including "What was your worst building experience?" "Who will be onsite to manage my contract daily?" "Do you work from a home office?" and "Do you have at least four references?"
- 4). Call each of the references. Speak with each reference and ask questions about the quality of the work, warranties, customer service, and contractor adherence to the budget. Gather the information provided by each reference and compare.
- 5). Contact your state's general contractor licensing division. Make sure the builder you select has a valid license to work in your locale.
- 6). Speak with people in your network. Networking will expose friends, family, and colleagues who may have used one of the builders you are researching. Ask people in your network about their experience with the builder. Make sure you ask if they would recommend their service.
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