Choosing a Builder

Choosing a custom homebuilder can be an overwhelming and stressful decision. Ultimately, the personal connection and trust you feel with your chosen builder often become the deciding factors. At Turnstone Custom Homes, we’re proud that many prospective clients choose us without going through a formal competitive bidding process. Do I Really Need to Get Three Bids for My New Custom Home? After engaging with our team, speaking to past clients, and understanding our detailed and transparent process, they feel confident enough to skip the time-consuming and often stressful bidding process. It’s both an honor and a responsibility we take seriously – and it happens frequently.


At Turnstone, we pride ourselves on the strong, lasting relationships we maintain with our clients. We’re happy to introduce you to several former clients who can share their experiences, offer valuable insights, and answer any questions you may have.

Critical Questions to Ask When Choosing a Builder

If you decide to interview other builders before making your decision, it’s essential to ask the right questions.

Here are some key considerations to guide your conversations:

  • 1. Design Capabilities
    • Can the builder design your home in-house?
    • If not, how do they address conflicts that might arise between the architect or designer and the builder?
  • 2. Experience and Expertise
    • How much experience does the builder have with projects similar to yours in scope, style, or complexity?
  • 3. Organization and Communication
    • How is the company structured?
    • Who will be your primary point of contact throughout the project?
  • 4. Flexibility and Adaptability
    • How does the builder handle changes during the project?
    • Are they open and flexible, or do they take a more rigid approach?
  • 5. Contract Fairness
    • Is the builder’s standard construction contract balanced and fair for both parties?
  • 6. References and Reputation
    • What references, testimonials, or case studies can the builder provide?
  • 7. Financial Strength
    • How strong is the builder’s financial position?
    • Can they handle unexpected challenges or delays?
  • 8. Cost Transparency
    • What is the builder’s approach to estimating costs?
    • Will they provide a budget that accurately reflects your desired craftsmanship and materials?
  • 9. Change Orders
    • What is the builder’s policy for pricing and managing change orders?
  • 10. Scheduling and Commitment
    • How does your project fit into their current construction schedule?
    • Can they commit to a realistic timeline?
  • 11. Post-Construction Service
    • What is the builder’s philosophy on service after the sale?
    • How do they handle issues, even after the warranty period has expired?

By asking these questions, you’ll gain a clearer picture of the builder’s capabilities, approach, and compatibility with your vision. At Turnstone, we’re confident our answers will inspire your trust and provide peace of mind as you embark on this exciting journey of building your dream home.