Of all the questions you have about building, the most important ones begin with choosing a reputable home builder. You want a professional builder who respects you, assist you in making tough choices, and offers you knowledgeable suggestions and alternatives that can reduce your cost and that can get you into the home you have always dreamed of owning.

• How long has the builder been in business?
• Does the builder have a good reputation with local banks and suppliers?
• Has the builders successfully built at least 6 homes?
• Is the builder properly insured?
• Can your builder provide you with a list of names and addresses of previous customers? Call them and ask if they would do business with the builder again.
• Have you seen the builder's finished work?
• Are you able to communicate easily and openly with the builder? Most problems arise from poor communication.
• Does the builder provide a written warranty and/or performance standards?
• Is the builder a member of a builders' association or other professional group?
• Is your builder registered with the state of Iowa?

This information has been provided by the Home Builders Association of Iowa.