Visiting a display centre is the start to choosing the right builder

Visiting display centres can be an overwhelming experience, but a little research can make your decision easier

Metricon’s latest design, the Bayville, has a ground-floor master bedroom suite and easy flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.

QUESTION: I’m considering going with a project builder for my next home but there are so many builders on the market. How do I make the right choice?

ANSWER: No matter how big or small your budget is, building a house is a major investment. And there are plenty of advantages of going with a project builder, not the least of which is having the opportunity to walk through designs until you find one you love.

But beyond the fabulous floorplans and sparkling surfaces, there are some hard decisions to make about which builder to go with.

Luke Fryer, NSW general manager Metricon Homes

Last month, Metricon was named Australia’s number one residential builder for the third year in a row in the HIA-Colorbond steel Housing 100 Report. General manager for Metricon NSW, Luke Fryer (pictured), says choosing a builder is about more than what awards they have won — but it doesn’t hurt either.

“We don’t set out to achieve awards like that but if we do everything right and value our customers every step of the way, this is the by-product,” Luke says.

If you’re looking at a few builders and you’re not sure who to go with, Luke says to start by looking at the history of the business. This could be as simple as checking how long the builder has been in business, through to reading reviews of their work online on forums such as Product Review where reviewers have to show proof of purchase before being able to post their comments.

“I’d also look for builders who back their product,” Luke says.

“We offer a 25-year structural warranty on our houses when the legislative requirement is 6½ years. If the builder is offering only what they are required to under the law, that would be a red flag. Look for builders who have been around for a long time.”

It’s easy to fall for a beautiful house but look for designs that suit your family’s needs.

Be upfront about your needs when speaking to sales staff at display centres.

Luke also suggests being upfront about your needs when speaking to sales staff at display centres. Increasingly, builders are solutions based with a large number of designs on offer.

“We have a design range as big as a council library,” Luke says.

“People ask us if we are flexible in our designs but we would rather that you tell us what you are trying to achieve.

“You might have teenagers who need a little privacy so you need three bathrooms, or you might have smaller children who you get up to at night so the bedrooms need to be close together.”

Customising your design further for a special-needs child or an elderly parent is not the drama it used to be either. Luke says if your requests are a little out of the ordinary, it’s worth shopping around for a builder who is prepared to listen.

Above all, Luke says you should expect a high level of service from your builder, before, during and after construction.

“Some customers think they are just engaging a builder who is only there to build their house,” he says.

“But we’re the builder, the project manager, the council negotiator.”

More:metricon.com.au; productreview.com.au

HOME RUNS

Follow this checklist to get the right builder

● Look for builders with longevity in the market so you can see their track record over time

● Industry awards are often an indicator of businesses striving for excellence and innovation

● Check independent product reviews. Most builders will have testimonials on their websites but look for forums showcasing a variety of builders

● Talk to the salesperson about what you want in your home from the start.