Terbrock Remodeling & Construction has been one of the leading custom home builders in the St. Louis area for more than 50 years. In that time, we’ve built homes of virtually every possible style and at price points on all levels. While we enjoy variety, we certainly recognize the importance of a good fit in the client-builder relationship. Early in the process, we ask a lot of questions to ensure that we’re the right choice for any given client or project and, in turn, we expect and encourage prospective clients to do the same.

It’s often the case that clients who are new to the home building process aren’t sure what they should be asking of potential home builders. Below you’ll find what we’d consider some of the most important questions you should ask before you sign on the dotted line.

Top 5 Questions For Potential Home Builders

1. May I see a portfolio of your work?

This seems like an obvious question but what you should be looking for here are indicators of typical style, price range and types of homes this builder commonly constructs. That’s not to say that a builder that doesn’t match up exactly in these areas is a bad choice but if their work doesn’t include any examples of what you’re after, it’s probably best to continue looking.

2. May I have a list of references from prior clients?

If you like what you see in a home builders portfolio, asking for contact information from past clients is the next step.  Touring a home tells you much more about the look, feel and quality of work. This can also be a great opportunity ask past clients about their experience and get first-hand feedback.

3. How many years have you been in business?

You might assume that, coming from us, this is a self-serving recommendation, but no! Experience definitely counts when it comes to evaluating home builders. The trick is, it’s not just the age of the business itself that matters. A new home builder might be a team of seasoned pros who just decided to strike out on their own. Overall experience is key.

4. Can you provide any information about resale values of the homes you’ve built?
Well built homes hold their value. A good builder will have this kind of market information readily available or will be able to refer you to past homeowners or Realtors who can fill you in. Of course, many variables are built into resale values so, this alone, shouldn’t be a deciding factor, but generally, you want to see a steady or upward trend here.

5. What type of warranty do you offer?

Good home builders stand behind their work. A structural warranty of 10 years or longer on the home itself is ideal. You should also ask what the process is for service requests (there should be one) and if you’ll receive any kind of guidance or documentation on proper home maintenance and care.