WHAT TO ASK BEFORE YOU CHOOSE A HOME BUILDER (Even if It’s Not Your First Time Around the Block)

Meeting a builder for the first time can feel a bit like a blind date. There’s polite small talk, maybe a few big promises, and the occasional red flag disguised as a “cost-saving suggestion”.

You know the type. They talk a big game, but when the bill arrives, suddenly they’ve “forgotten their wallet.” No fixed pricing, no clear inclusions – just vague numbers and excuses.

Or they disappear for weeks and then swan back in when you’re at your wits’ end. “Sorry, we’ve just had so much rain!” they tell you – even though your roof’s been on for weeks and they still haven’t finished the painting.

Yeah, we’ve heard the horror stories. Great examples of what not to do.

So, how do you avoid these types of builders? 

Here’s what to ask before signing anything – whether it’s your first time or your third.

First, Figure Out What Matters to You

Before you go rattling off a list of questions like you’re speed-dating every tradie on Google, take a minute to think about what actually matters to you.

• Do you want regular updates, or are you more of a “call me when the keys are ready” type?

• Do you want full design freedom, or a streamlined build with less decision fatigue?

• Is your top priority budget? Timelines? Sustainability? Service?

The Questions That Actually Matter

Let’s be honest: some of the “top 10 questions to ask a builder” lists floating around the internet read like a Year 10 social studies project.

So here’s a sharper list, based on real priorities that’ll help filter out the shady from the straight-up.

People + Process

Who will I be dealing with throughout the build?

Is it one point of contact or a revolving door of names?

How do you keep me updated during the build?

Weekly check-ins? Surprise site visits? Radio silence?

👉The Classic answer: You’ll deal with two key people – your Building Consultant, and your Construction Manager once things are underway. We’ll keep you in the loop however you prefer – weekly notes, progress pics, FaceTime, even on-site walkthroughs if you’re keen. We’re flexible. Just promise you won’t rock up unannounced in hi-vis and jandals – we’ve got health and safety rules to follow.

Experience + Fit

What kinds of clients do you usually work with?

First-home buyers? Upsizers? Investors? Lifestyle block dreamers?

Have you done similar builds to mine before?

Bonus points if they have actual examples.

Transparency + Flexibility + Budget

How do you handle variations?

AKA: What happens if I change my mind halfway through? (Sometimes not even halfway through!)

What’s included – and what isn’t?

If the driveway’s extra, we’d rather know now.

👉The Classic answer: When we’re putting together the contract, we make sure all the inclusions are crystal clear, so you know exactly what you’re getting, and what still needs sorting.

What does a realistic timeline look like?

Not the glossy one – the real one.

👉 The Classic answer: We don’t wing it. Every build follows a clear, week-by-week timeline – mapped out before we break ground. Our suppliers and subbies know when and where they’re needed, so things stay on track. It’s not a best-case scenario, it’s a plan built on experience. Of course, delays can happen – but crossed fingers aren’t part of the process.

Aftercare + Support

What happens after handover?

What’s the warranty? What does the follow-up include? Or is it “cheers, good luck” and radio silence?

A Few Red Flags While We’re At It

You don’t need a sixth sense to spot a builder that’s not quite right. Just watch for:

🚩 Vague answers or “don’t worry about that”

🚩 Changing specs without clear explanations

🚩 A quote that feels too good to be true

🚩 No reviews, no references, no previous builds to show

🚩 Pressure to sign before you’ve had time to breathe

Trust your gut. If something feels off – ask. And if the answer makes it worse? Walk.

First time and feeling overwhelmed? Try this.

👉Building Your First Home? Here's What You Need to Know

Bonus: The One Question Everyone Should Ask When Choosing a Builder

By now, you’ve probably got a decent list of questions to ask – pricing, timelines, communication, what’s included… all essential.

But here’s one most people don’t think to ask – and it might just be the best indicator of all:

“How many of your clients come back to build with you again?”

Because repeat business doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when builders do what they say they’ll do. When the process runs smoothly, the quality stacks up, and clients feel looked after – not just during the build, but long after the handover.

You can ignore the fancy brochure. You can look past the sales pitch.

If people are coming back for round two (or three), that tells you everything you need to know.

The Classic Builders Way

We’re not here to give you the hard sell.

We’re here to lay it out clearly – what’s included, what’s not, how long it’ll take, and what could affect the timeline.

We’ll talk you through the build, keep you in the loop, and back our work long after the handover.

We’ll tell you what’s included, what’s not, and how it all actually works – no surprises.

And yes, we’ve got people who’ve built with us two, even three times. Like Leigh & Ngaia, who built their dream home with us, and came back again years later when their family grew.

👉 Read their story

We might not be the right fit for everyone – and that’s okay. But if you value straight talk, solid process, and a team that shows up? You’re in the right place.