New Home Builder Referrals

New Home Builder Referrals

As a Builder, knowing and addressing any concerns potential clients may have when they first come to us is a vital part of the customer service we offer.  Some clients are first time builders.  Some clients have built before and, unfortunately, didn’t have a great experience.  Either way, it’s our job to assist our clients in understanding the process; making their building journey as stress free and rewarding as possible.

One way that we get information on client concerns is by monitoring social media, feedback and review websites.  Not only are we looking for information relating to our company particularly (as any constructive criticism is an opportunity for us to improve), we are also looking for general trends across the industry.  A common question we come across is “Has anyone else had troubles with Company XYZ?”.  At this point, the client is usually already signed to a contract and thousands of dollars out of pocket.  Essentially, they are already committed and the only way out is to go through the process; no matter how distressing or financially debilitating that may be.

The question itself isn’t the issue.  It’s about the timing of when the question is asked.  Building a new home is a significant commitment of both your time and money.  So, wouldn’t it be better to be asking this question before you choose your builder?  Most of us would look at the star rating and reviews before buying an air fryer or new TV.  So why isn’t the same happening when it comes to buying a new home?  When it comes to builders, it is more difficult to make comparisons.  You can look at the floor plans and specification but the real value is in the service that you are going to receive … and this is a bit harder to assess.

The best way is to ask for referrals upfront.  That’s right!  Ask your potential builder for past clients you can contact to get their feedback.  Also look at both Google and social media reviews.  If you see anything that causes you some concern, bring this up directly with your builder and see what their response is.  If they try and fob you off, it’s a good indication that they won’t listen to or act on any of your future concerns during the build either.  What you are looking for is a builder that answers your questions openly, honestly and in a timely manner.  These are all traits you want to know your builder has so that your journey is more ‘over the rainbow’ than ‘down the rabbit hole’!