Choosing a turnkey builder is an important decision when building a new home, renovating an existing one or even planning a full commercial fit-out. A turnkey builder offers a complete building solution, where the builder is responsible for every aspect of the construction process from start to finish, providing the home or business owner with a complete and ready-to-move-in property. However, with so many turnkey builders in the market, it can be difficult to know how to choose the right one for you. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision.
1. Research the Turnkey Builder’s Reputation
The first step in choosing a builder for your turnkey self build project is to research their reputation. Look for online reviews, check their website, and ask for referrals from friends and family. The reputation of a builder can give you an idea of their quality of work and customer service.
2. Check their Portfolio
A builder’s portfolio is a great way to see their work and get a sense of their design style and level of workmanship. It will also help you understand what kind of properties they have built in the past and what their strengths and weaknesses are. You can ask for photos of finished projects, virtual tours or even visit completed properties in person to get a feel for their work, with permission from the owners of course!
3. Check their Experience
Consider a builder’s experience, especially in the type of property you want to build or renovate. The more experience a builder has, the better equipped they will be to handle any challenges that may arise during the building process. Ask for references from past clients and verify their experience and expertise by visiting completed homes. If the provider has worked on multiple turnkey self build projects in the past, you can have faith that they’ll have the knowledge to meet your requirements.
4. Ask About the Building Process
The building process is an important part of any turnkey self build project, and it’s important to understand how the builder works. Ask about their project management approach, the materials they use, and their quality control processes. You should also ask about the timeline for the project and the builder’s process for keeping you informed and updated throughout the construction process.
5. Consider the Cost
The cost of a turnkey building project is an important factor to consider when choosing a builder. It’s important to understand the costs involved, including the cost of materials, labour, and any additional services that may be required. You should also consider the payment schedule and any additional fees that may be incurred during the construction process. Most builders will be able to give you a rough quote for the job, but don’t always think the cheapest quote is the best. There may be things that aren’t being considered!
6. Look for Good Communication
Good communication is key when working with a turnkey builder. You want to work with a builder who is responsive, communicative, and proactive in keeping you informed throughout the building process. You should also ask about the builder’s approach to problem-solving, as well as their commitment to customer service.
7. Check their Guarantees and Warranties
It’s important to understand the guarantees and warranties offered by the builder. This will help you ensure that your investment is protected and that you will have peace of mind in the event of any problems with the construction of your home.
8. Ask About their Subcontractors
Many turnkey builders work with subcontractors to complete various aspects of the construction process. It’s important to understand who the subcontractors are, their experience, and their reputation. You should also ask about the builder’s process for working with subcontractors and how they ensure quality control. One of the key things to look for is an ongoing relationship. If they ‘have a guy they always use’ for a type of job, this is often a good sign, as it shows a strong relationship between the subcontractor and the turnkey builder.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right partner is a critical decision when undertaking any turnkey self build project. By researching the builder’s reputation, checking their portfolio, and considering their experience, cost, communication, guarantees and warranties, and subcontractors, you can make an informed decision that will ensure your investment is protected and your home is built to your satisfaction.