Advice in How to Find the Builder that is Right for You?

[Christopher Aranguren]

Coming up in 2023, I’m looking to take on some new projects for the first time! What’s interesting is that these projects include pretty different end goals: one is a “higher value” custom buildout of a new structure, one is a new build addition to an upper-middle class suburban property, and one is a budget conversion (and possible expansion) of an existing garage structure.

I’ve never dealt with builders before and am not sure if there are particular things I should ask and look out for as red flags or green flags about which builder is right for me, and right for each project. Are the questions you’d ask the same as any other contractor? Is there anything you’d ask a builder specifically that you wouldn’t bother with for other renovation tasks? Would you trust any contractor for a conversion + expansion or just a builder? Id like to come up with a clearer idea and formulate a bit of a questionnaire/checklist of sorts on what to discuss when “interviewing” potential builders for each of these projects. Any advice on what y’all would recommend looking for or looked for if you have experience here to help guide towards the best fit is much appreciated!

FYI: all projects are in Charlotte, North Carolina and nearby markets in NC. Any insight is appreciated, and any connects you may have (especially for more budget-friendly builders), also is very helpful. Happy to connect with any others in the area or elsewhere too!

Thanks BP family and wishing everyone luck in their continued journeys REI and otherwise! 🙌🏼