8 questions to ask when picking (the right) new home builder
Choosing the right new home builder is, of course, a big decision. It’s almost as important as deciding where to live. And if you’re researching new homes at Windler in Aurora, CO, then you’re already on the right path.
Finding the right builder can significantly influence your satisfaction and comfort in your future residence. At Windler, we completely understand the importance of this choice. That’s among the reasons we partnered with a diverse array of some of Colorado’s and the nations finest home builders to make sure you had plenty to choose from.
To ensure you make an informed decision, here are questions we think are important to ask when selecting a new home builder:
1. What is the builder’s reputation, history and track record of growth and success?
Investigate the builder’s track record in the industry. Where did they start? How long have they been around?
A builder with a longstanding presence in the area and a portfolio of successful projects demonstrates reliability and quality craftsmanship. For instance, Windler collaborates with esteemed builders like New Home Co., Brightland Homes, Century Communities, KB Home, and Tri Pointe Homes each bringing their unique expertise and decades of experience to the community.
A lot of this information can be found on the builders’ websites without a lot of digging. You’ll learn a lot about each builder’s style and business priority, too, when doing this research. To easily navigate to each of our builder’s websites, visit our Home Builders page to find the links you need.
2. What warranties do you offer on the home?
Inquire about the warranties provided, covering aspects like structural elements, workmanship, and materials. Understanding the warranty terms helps set expectations for future support and maintenance. Our home builders at Windler are regionally and nationally recognized with access to top-tier, comprehensive warranties that reflect their confidence in the quality of their construction.
3. Can you provide references from recent buyers?
Speaking with previous homebuyers and current homeowners offers valuable insights into the builder’s communication, reliability, and the overall quality of their homes. Oftentimes, builders are proud to share testimonials from their homeowners, although they may only show the best reviews. That doesn’t mean they’re not relevant, but it’s helpful to go beyond the builder themself and find references for yourself. Otherwise, turn to Google reviews or AvidRatings.com if your builder is listed there.
Engaging with current residents in the Windler community can provide firsthand accounts of their experiences (and some stories that probably sound a lot like yours). Make sure you’re signed up for Windler emails to get your invitations to events, especially during our Year of Firsts.
4. What are the standard features and upgrade options?
Clarify which features are included as standard or optional, and what types of upgrades you can purchase for adding a little extra luxury or smart home technology.
This knowledge assists in budgeting and ensures your new home meets your preferences. Our first five home builders offer a variety of options, allowing you to personalize your home to your lifestyle. And each builder tends to do it a little bit differently. This is a good place to start once you’ve defined what kind of home you’re seeking, and which builder(s) offer that type of style.
5. How do you ensure quality control during construction and a realistic timeline for completion?
Understanding the builder’s quality control measures and inspection processes ensures that your home is constructed to the highest standards. Ask about their home building process; the 1, 2, 3’s of how they go from foundation to your home. You may find that some builders focus on offering available homes or quick move-in homes that are already finished with pre-selected options. The earlier you start, the more opportunities you’ll have to personalize and upgrade your home.
Plus, it’s good to learn who you’ll be working with (primarily) during the construction of your home. Is it an off-site team at a corporate office that’s well-honed and tied-in with every step of the process, and where your home is during every step of the process? Or is it an on-site construction manager or foreman who will be your go-to touchpoint for questions and tours?
Builders at Windler implement rigorous quality assurance protocols throughout the construction process. That’s why they’ve been in business for as long as they have, and have the reputations they have of quality construction.
Discuss the expected timeline for your home’s construction and any factors that might affect it. Clear timelines help in planning your move and managing expectations.
6. How do you handle changes or modifications during construction?
Learn about the builder’s policies regarding changes or customizations once construction has begun. Flexibility can be crucial if you decide to make adjustments during the building process, but aren’t guaranteed.
Typically, some of the homesites may have pre-planned new home designs whereas some may not. We can’t stress this enough: it’s best to get started early so you have more time and more options on your side.
7. What energy-efficient features are included?
Inquire about the energy-saving features incorporated into the home design. Energy-efficient homes can lead to significant cost savings on monthly utility bills, and can help minimize our carbon footprint.
Our home builders at Windler prioritize sustainable building practices and energy-efficient designs with new technology features and modern-day building techniques. You’ll feel good about what you’re moving into here.
8. What are the community amenities and future development plans?
Windler is in the process of creating an abundance of amenities that will make every day feel like an opportunity to get out, to relax, and to enjoy the best of Colorado. That means parks, playgrounds, a (gorgeous) pool and thoughtfully-designed community center, dog parks, and gathering areas that come with their own perks (like places to eat and grab a Colorado craft brew) – all of which are within easy reach from wherever you plant your roots in Windler.
We encourage you to ask your home builders about the amenities, but really, we’d prefer you ask us – the folks creating this remarkable new home community in Aurora. Reach out to Windler’s Relationship Manager – Kristen – with your questions. You can call Kristen at (719) 406-8514 or send her an email.
And when it’s ready to roam, come find the Windler Mobile Welcome Center bouncing around the community. (Pssst… sign up for our emails so you can get your invitation to the Mobile Welcome Center’s opening!).
Selecting the right new home builder requires thorough research and thoughtful questioning. By considering the builders at Windler, you can find a partner dedicated to constructing a home that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.