Find a Home Builder
A luxury home builder, by definition, is a builder who designs one-of-a-kind homes on specific lots for their clients. They generally build only a few homes each year. Building a luxury home is one of the most important investments you will make, and choosing the right builder is as important as the home itself. Look for a builder with a solid reputation who can deliver the highest quality home.
Home Builder Selection
You should shop for your builder as carefully as you will plan your new home. It's important to find a home builder with whom you feel comfortable and who listens to your ideas. The website of the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders), nahb.org, is an excellent place to start your search. Use this site to find your local Home Builders Association (HBA), which in turn, can put you in touch with a home builder in your area. Once you've chosen several home builders, call them to set up interviews. Ask if they can meet with you at your building site. Discuss with them what you have in mind for your new home and see if they have a building philosophy that meshes well with that you want. Find out how many homes they've built and how long they've been building.
5 Questions To Ask Your Home Builder
Will you obtain all the required building permits? What other services can I expect from you?
What steps do you take to guarantee your work?
Who will oversee construction of my home? Who will I be corresponding with throughout the home-building process?
Do you employ your own construction crew? What subcontractors will you be working with?
What experience do you have building homes of my size and scope?
Home Style Glossary
Educate yourself about the various types of home styles.
- Colonial
This style dates back to historical New England, and typically features a two-story home with a symmetrical facade. The main entry door is in the center of the facade; windows are symmetrically placed on either side. The second level will also have windows symmetrically placed around the door.
- European
This style typically has many rooflines and, generally, many gables. The undulating facade gives the home a "castle" feel. Exterior materials are stone, brick, stucco, or a combination of two or more materials.
- Mediterranean
Typically found in warm climates with many windows and an open floor plan. The exterior is usually stucco with a tile roof. A hip roof with large overhangs is most common. Some of these elements are characteristic of the Southwestern home style also.
- Traditional
These homes strive for a grand appearance. They usually do not have porches, but several will have covered entryways. They usually have hip main roofs and bold, front-facing gables. There will be several main ridgelines running both parallel and perpendicular to the street. The exterior material could be clapboard or masonry (brick, stucco, stone).
National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
nahb.org
800-368-5242