How To Find A Master Builder for Your Next Project

Starting your next home improvement or renovation project can be overwhelming at first. There’s so much information and advice it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily, finding the right builder for your project is easier than you think! As long as you know a few key tips, finding a great builder should be as simple as asking friends, checking directories and blogs, or asking trusted family members or friends who have had experience with home improvement contractors in the past. 

Here are some questions you should ask your Master builders before you hire them:

Should You Hire A General Contractor or a Master Builder in Christchurch?

This is often the first question you’ll ask yourself when you’ve decided you need a new home or your current one needs an upgrade. If you’re looking to add on an extension to your home or take down walls to expand your living area, you’ll need a general contractor. If you’re looking to do extensive renovations or completely overhaul your home, you’ll probably want to hire a master builder In Christchurch. While a general contractor will take care of all of the practicalities like scheduling the demolition and construction, a master builder will be responsible for drawing up the designs, managing all the trades, and seeing the project through to completion. 

Both are essential for any large home renovation or building project, but if you’re not sure which one is right for your needs it’s worth taking the time to investigate each option. You can use the tips above to help you decide which contractor type is best for your project. In the end, you’ll have a much better idea of what your renovation or building project will entail, and who should be managing it all.

What Features Should You Look for in Your Builder in Christchurch?

As you look at each potential builder, take note of what features they offer. While these are not requirements, they are all important features that you’ll want to make sure your builder has. 

Professional Licenses: Some states require contractors to be licensed, and that can help you ensure you’re hiring a qualified professional. Make sure the contractor you hire is licensed and registered in their state. 

Experience

As we mentioned above, a master builder is in charge of managing all the trades and seeing the renovation or building project through to completion. Avoid hiring a contractor who has only done small renovations or projects, as they may not have the experience necessary to oversee a large job. 

Scope Of Work

You’ll want to see a detailed proposal from your builder that outlines exactly what you can expect from them during the construction process. You want to know exactly what you can expect from each stage of the process, what materials are used, and how much that will cost you. This will help you not only schedule your renovations but also make sure they go as smoothly as possible. 

Project Timeline

During the proposal, you’ll want to see an estimate for the timeline of your renovations. This will give you an idea of how long your project will take, and if it will fit within your timeline.

Be Wary of Any Builder Who Offers free Estimates

You might be tempted to trust a builder who offers a free estimate, but don’t do it! While the builder might have a good reason for offering a free estimate, it’s most likely an attempt to get you to hire them. Avoid any contractor who offers you a free estimate, or even one that is much lower than their standard estimate. While it’s tempting to take advantage of a builder who is offering a cheaper estimate, it also means that they may not be fully aware of how much the job will cost them, or how long it will take. It could be that their estimate is for the job, a portion of the job, or just an indication of how long it will take. To avoid this, you’ll want to hire a contractor who is familiar with the job and has done similar projects in the past. This will give you a better idea of what to expect, both financially and timeline-wise.

Ask For References And Inspect The Works Before Signing Any Contracts

Whether you hire a general contractor or a master builder, you’ll want to make sure you can trust them. Trust is built through communication, so make sure you get to know your contractors well before any work starts. As you do research and meet with potential builders, keep in mind that you may not be able to meet them in person until your project is closer to starting. 

You can meet with them over the phone or in-person to discuss your project, and ask them to give you the names of other builders they have worked within the past. This will help you get an idea of their reputation and track record. While you’re researching builders In Christchurch and meeting with them, make sure you ask them for references. This will help you not only get to know your potential contractor better but also avoid building owners and builders who may be trying to scam you. Once you’ve chosen your builder, it’s also a good idea to inspect the works before signing any contracts. This will help you get a better idea of what your contractor expects from you, and what you can expect from them.

Don’t Forget To Negotiate!

Finally, at the end of the day, you’re the one investing in your project. You should feel comfortable hiring any builder you choose but also be prepared for some negotiation. If a builder tries to charge you way over or under their standard prices, feel free to negotiate a lower price. There are plenty of ways to negotiate as well. You can ask a builder to give you a price for a specific aspect of the project, or for a specific day or time. This can work especially well with a general contractor, who may not have a specific price for each day or stage of the renovation. Now that you know how to find a great builder, you’ll have an easier time choosing one you’re comfortable working with and feel confident they’ll be able to complete your home improvement project.