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+--- Thread: 7 Critical Questions to Ask Your Home Builder Before You Sign (/thread-90361.html)
7 Critical Questions to Ask Your Home Builder Before You Sign - sharplineinc - 11-19-2025
You are about to make the biggest investment of your life. The builder you choose is the single most important factor that will determine if your new home build is a dream experience or a costly nightmare. You must go into this with your eyes open, ready to ask the tough, direct questions that separate the professionals from the pretenders. Do not sign a contract until you have clear, confident answers to these seven questions. A quality builder, like SHARPLINE INC., will not hesitate to answer every single one.
1. What is your communication process? This is the most critical question. A vague answer like "you can call me anytime" is not good enough. You want to hear, "You will have a dedicated project manager, a weekly scheduled email update, and access to our online portal." A lack of a system for communication is the number one source of stress.
2. Can I have a detailed list of your standard features? You must know exactly what is included in the base price. What brand of appliances? What type of flooring? What R-value of insulation? A builder who is vague about their "spec sheet" is a builder who will hit you with "upgrade" charges for items you assumed were included.
3. What is your full warranty, and can I see it in writing? Do not accept "we have a one-year warranty." A strong warranty is a "1-2-10" plan: one year for materials and workmanship, two years for systems (plumbing, HVAC, electrical), and ten years for structural integrity. This is your only protection. If they won't put it in writing, walk away.
4. How do you handle change orders? This is a test of their organization. You might change your mind about a finish, and you need to know the process. The only correct answer is, "We use a formal, written change order. You will see the exact cost and any time delay, and you must sign and approve it before any work is done." This protects you from surprise bills.
5. What is your on-time completion record? You need to know if they are organized. Ask them for their average build time from foundation to closing. Ask them how they handle delays from weather or subcontractors. A professional builder manages their schedule aggressively and will have a clear, honest answer.
6. Can I have a list of three past clients and three main suppliers? This is a non-negotiable. A good builder is proud of their relationships. You must call their past clients and ask about the process. You must also call their lumber supplier and their plumbing supplier to ask if the builder pays their bills on time. A builder with slow-paying habits is a major financial risk.
7. What is your process for the final walkthrough? You want to hear about the "blue tape" or "punch list" process. A professional builder will walk the home with you before closing to identify every minor paint scuff, nail pop, or adjustment. This shows a commitment to delivering a 100% complete home. When you are looking for new construction homes in Pennsylvania, asking these questions is the best way to vet your potential partner.
These questions are your best defense. Do not be afraid to ask them. A true professional will have the answers. Your new home is too big of an investment to leave to chance