Selecting Your Builder

Only the Best is Good Enough

“Whether you build or buy a new home, it is one of the most important personal and financial decisions you will ever make… and the most important part of you decision is selecting a builder.  Invest yourself in researching and choosing a qualified, experienced professional builder.”

1.      Build or Buy with a ‘Graduate Master Builder’ (“GMB”).  Your home is the most significant investment you will ever make.  Naturally you want to pick the right builder who will deliver your new home on time and within budget, who will stand behind his work.

2.      Selection Criteria.  The hardest part is knowing what criteria to use when selecting a builder, then finding a builder who will do the best overall job.  There are no local, state or federal requirements for training or licensing.

3.      What is a Graduate Master Builder?          Graduate Master Builder GMB is the top designation developed by the National Association of Builders to help consumers identify professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence.  Their credentials demonstrates they have undertaken continuing education courses in professional management and that they have committed to a professional code of ethics.

4.      10 Questions to ask your prospective Builder.

1.       How long have been building homes in this area?  “Over the last 38 years Omega has built 2,400 homes in this area and 3,000 total.”

2.       Do you have an organization to adequately handle construction and warranty service?  “Headed by Jim Howe, GMB, Omega Builders professional staff has more than 195 years combined experience.  Jim holds the National Association of Home Buildiers prestigous ‘Graduate Master Builder’ designation.”

3.       What type warranty program do you offer?  “Every Omega Home carries a limited warranty backed by ‘Home of Texas-RWC Warranty Company.”

4.       Who Supervises Construction?  “Our construction manager, with 25 years experience, supervises 3 professional builders, a buyer and a long list of qualified trades.”

5.       How long have your trade people been working for you?  “Most are long-term, as long as 20, 30 and nearly 40 years, however Omega is always on the lookout for qualified professionals to join our team.”

6.       Can you provide a list of references, including homeowners, bankers, subcontractors, and inspectors?  “We will gladly provide a list, however because Omega is so well known in Central Texas, you will have no difficulty securing outstanding references by your own sampling of anyone associated with these groups.”

7.       Are there any liens against homes you have built?  “In 38 years of home building, Omega has never had a lien filed against a home.”

8.       Have you ever been sued by a homeowner?  If so, did you win or loose?  Are there any suits currently pending?  “There are no lawsuits pending against Omega, however some 30 years ago, we prevailed on an out-of-warranty roofing  suit.”

9.       Have you ever filed for bankruptcy protection?  “Omega is in sound financial condition and has never filed for bankruptcy or failed to honor a debt.”

10.    Are you registered with the Texas Residential Construction Commission (“TRCC”)?  “Omega Builders,  registration #3091, is in good standing with the TRCC.”