Top Questions to Ask Your Builder Before Signing a Contract

Top Questions to Ask Your Builder Before Signing a Contract, High angle view of saleswoman pointing at form to woman in apartment

Posted Wednesday May 7, 2025 in 55+, 55+ Adult, Blog, First Time Home Buyer, Home Building Process, Home Buying Process



Top Questions to Ask Your Builder Before Signing a Contract by Chafin Communities

As you know, buying a home is a large investment. Before you put pen to paper, we want you to feel confident and well informed. Asking the right questions may help fill in any gaps and put you one step closer to your new home. Now you may ask, what questions do I ask? For your benefit, we have taken away the guesswork and created a list of the top questions to ask your builder before signing a contract. 

Are you Licensed and Insured?

This will verify that you are protected from legal and financial risk. It also establishes credibility for your builder and ensures that they are covered if any damage may occur. 

Are There Any Move-In Ready Homes Available? 

It is beneficial to know all your options. If there is a quicker alternative to building a home, you may want to be aware, so that you can consider it. Especially if you are on a strict timeline. 

What is the Timeline? 

Speaking of a timeline, that is a discussion you will want to have with your builder as well. This will establish clear expectations and allow you to plan all the moving parts accordingly. 

What is Your Protocol for Unexpected Delays?

Not everything always goes as planned, so you may want to investigate your builder’s plan for those scenarios. Their backup plan will show you how they manage these setbacks. 

How Many Homes are in the Community?

When moving into a home within a community, it is important to look at the bigger picture. Finding the right home comes with finding the right community, so consider factors like the community’s size, noise levels, development pace, etc. 

What Does the Quote Cover?

Having a cut and dry cost breakdown will save you from any surprises down the road. You can ask for a detailed cost breakdown, so you are aware of what would be included in the price and what would be considered extra. 

How Will We Communicate Throughout the Building Process?

Adequate communication will make the home buying process smoother for all parties involved. Knowing who your point of contact is and their preferred method of communication can ensure that you stay informed. 

What Warranties and Guarantees Are Offered? 

As previously stated, this is a big investment, so you want to protect it. Ask about warranties and guarantees to clarify what will be fixed or replaced if problems arise, and for how long.

What is the HOA Fee?

The more that you know upfront, the better. Knowing if there is an HOA and if there are annual dues allow you to allocate your money up front. Read more about HOAs here.

What is Included in the Contract? 

Ultimately, before signing the contract you want to have a full understanding of what is in the contract. Make sure that you are on the same page with your builder, and that everything you have agreed upon is in writing. 

 

These questions will help you uncover any red flags, encourage transparency, and give you the assurance that you are working with honest professionals. If you ever feel any questions or concerns arise, do not hesitate to reach out and ask. 

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