Though builders might generally use similar tools and materials when building homes, not all are alike when it comes to things like technique, training and customer service. Finding the right builder whose business approach aligns well with your personal preferences is essential to a pleasant home-building experience.

The builder will be asking you plenty of questions during your initial meeting to discuss the home you envision. But the questions you ask the builder are equally important to determine if it's going to be a positive partnership. Consider asking the builder about the following:

Work Experience - You will want to find a builder with extensive experience building homes similar to the one you want. Ask to see examples of floor plans and designs they've done before to ensure their company can deliver what you need. You should also ask if they have or are working toward any professional designations, which show that the builder has advanced training in a particular area. A few examples of such designations include a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), a Graduate Master Builder (CMB), and a Certified Green Professional (CGP).

References - Any high-quality builder should be ready to provide you with several names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. If they can't, consider that a red flag and walk away. When reaching out to those former clients, ask about how well the builder followed through on the initial plans, and if the builder met their expectations regarding budget and timing. Don't forget the most telling question of them all: If they could do it all over, would they hire that builder again?

Communication Style - Many builders will do their best to accommodate your communication preferences. But it's always best to establish expectations as early as possible. The frequency (weekly, monthly, as-needed, etc.) and method (phone, text, email) of how you communicate early on with each other is something that will set the tone throughout the whole building process.

For more information about how to find the right builder to create your dream home, contact Greater Montgomery Home Builders Association at (334) 277-7766.