Building a custom home is likely the largest investment you will ever make—not just financially, but emotionally. At Level Up Builders, we believe the relationship between a homeowner and their builder is a partnership that lasts well over a year.
Because we want you to have the best experience possible (whether you build with us or someone else), we’ve put together this guide on how to navigate the selection process. Inspired by industry best practices, here are the eight essential steps to choosing the right team for your dream home.
1. Define Your Vision and Scope
Before you start interviewing, you need a clear “must-have” list. Are you looking for a modern architectural marvel or a timeless farmhouse? Do you have a specific lot, or do you need help finding one? Knowing your style and your non-negotiables allows you to find a builder whose portfolio and expertise align with your specific goals.
2. Look Beyond the Portfolio (Check Experience)
A beautiful photo on Instagram is a great start, but a custom home requires technical mastery. Ask how many years the builder has been in the custom space specifically. Building a “spec” home is very different from building a unique, one-off custom project. You want a team that has navigated the complexities of custom permits, site-specific engineering, and high-end finishes before.
3. The “Trade” Secret: Check Their Industry Reputation
Most people ask for client references, but here’s an insider tip: Ask about their relationship with sub-trades and suppliers. A builder is only as good as the craftsmen they hire. Do they pay their trades on time? Are their job sites organized? If a builder has a reputation for treating their plumbers, electricians, and lumber yards with respect, your project will run much smoother.
4. Prioritize Transparent Communication
In your first meeting, pay attention to how they listen. Do they answer your questions directly, or do they pivot to a sales pitch? You will be communicating with your builder hundreds of times over the next 12 to 18 months. If the “vibe” isn’t right or the communication feels one-sided now, it will only get more difficult once the dirt starts moving.
5. Beware the “Ballpark” Estimate
One of the biggest red flags in custom building is a quote that seems too fast or too low. A detailed, accurate budget for a custom home takes time to produce. At Level Up Builders, we advocate for a thorough pre-construction phase. If a builder gives you a “price per square foot” without seeing your plans or site conditions, proceed with extreme caution.
6. Inspect the “Unseen” Quality
When visiting a builder’s current job site or a recently finished home, look past the paint colors. Look at the organization of the site. Is it clean? Are the materials protected from the elements? Look at the trim work and the cabinetry installs. The “hidden” details—like how the mechanical room is laid out—tell you everything you need to know about the builder’s standard of excellence.
7. Trust Your Gut
Finally, remember that you are hiring a team to bring your private sanctuary to life. You need to trust them with your budget, your vision, and your family’s future. If a builder has the credentials but your intuition is telling you something is off, keep looking. The right fit will offer a blend of professional expertise and personal compatibility.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a builder is the first “brick” laid in your new home. By following these steps, you move from a place of uncertainty to a place of confidence.
Are you ready to start your custom home journey? We’d love to hear about your vision. Reach out to the Level Up Builders team today to see if we’re the right partner for your project.
Call 204-542-0504 or email info@levelupbuilders.ca