Choosing a Contractor...

It's all about trust and communication. Getting something built on time and on budget means you need a contractor you're comfortable with, someone you respect who understands what you're after.

The best way to begin seeking this person is to start with people you know. Ask your friends and neighbors for suggestions. They may have first-hand experience with a contractor, or they may know someone who has.

For names, contact local lenders and brokers. Check with local chapters of professional societies, like the National Association of Home Builders or the American Institute of Architects. Ask for bank references, call subcontractors and suppliers. Go down to the County Records office and check the public records for information regarding your builders credit and legal status.

You'll want to have several candidates to choose from. Meet each one separately and ask to see a portfolio of their work. Get references and call former clients. Ask for addresses of pas projects and visit them. And make sure each prospect is insured for things like worker's compensation, property damage and personal liability.

Rough Cost Estimates

After you've described your plan, get estimates from each candidate. Since it's nearly impossible to have precise costs for labor and materials at this point, ask for a range of figures. What you want is a check point to help screen contractors.

Final Bids

After you've narrowed the candidates down to two or three, you'll need to get specific. Especially about the quality of materials you want, and the manufacturers of products you're interested in. Make sure each contractor uses the same information in preparing their bid.

Contracts

Contracts vary widely, but certain points are basic. The fundamental rule is to work only with a written contract that spells out every part of the job including the starting date, product specifications and quality, warranties on workmanship and completion date. The contract should also specify who cleans up and removes debris. Also, the price, payment schedules and cancellation policy should be shown.

Responsibilities

Your contractor's responsibilities are to order and pay for all supplies, hire subcontractors, coordinate their work so the job flows smoothly, oversee the budget, inspect the work as it's being done to ensure your satisfaction, and obtain and pay for all building permits, utility connections and licenses. The contractor must also comply with ordinances and codes, coordinate inspections with the building department, and pay sales taxes to appropriate agencies.

Construction Financing

There are all sorts of ways to finance a new home and competition among financial institutions has never been greater. If you shop around and carefully compare interest rates, terms and other costs, you'll be able to save a significant amount of money on your construction. BSI - Builder of Fine Homes has a professional relationship with all of the reputable lenders in town. We will help guide you through the process of choosing the finance program that best fits your needs.

"Our goal is to build homes that are above the standard, creating uniqueness, superb workmanship and impeccable taste. BSI is not only a Builder of Fine Homes, but a builder of integrity and quality, whose reputation represents a commitment to making excellence a standard."