So you’re ready to build your dream home. The first step is to find the perfect home site which can help you choose a home builder. This step is crucial because it affects many elements of a home such as cost, design, size, and usability. For instance, the slope of a lot can determine if you are able to have a door in your basement level or if you’ll need to add window wells. Covenants of the neighborhood can require certain house size, number of garage stalls and even the types of materials that must be used on your home’s exterior. In addition every lot has setbacks which controls where the house sits on the lot and can affect size and layout of your future home.
As Land Development Manager, I am happy to help you through this process and answer any of your questions. We currently have ten beautiful residential neighborhoods to show you, with options of sizes, price ranges and locations. I am confident we can find a beautiful place for you to call home.
Once you’ve found your favorite neighborhood and ideal lot, it’s time to choose a builder. We are fortunate to have hundreds of skilled builders in our area. You will be collaborating closely with your builder for months, so it’s important to find someone you genuinely like, trust and respect. Be sure your builder also provides the level of communication you need.
Search for local home builders
We recommend talking to homeowners in your new neighborhood about their builders. These homes are most likely to be in your size, price range and style. The Sioux Empire Home Builders Association’s website is valuable resource for a wide network of reputable builders. The association also hosts the annual Home Show to meet and greet builders as well as the Parade of Homes that provides you the opportunity to tour model homes.
Research your list of potential builders
Once you have a list of recommended builders, it’s time to research and find the one that’s right for you. Many builders have websites and social media to provide insight into their business. Their posted portfolios and testimonials can be helpful for narrowing down a builder that best aligns with your desired style of home. Set meetings with two or three builders to make sure they are available in your timeframe, can work within your budget and capable of managing your particular needs. Most importantly, get to know them and if they are someone you can see yourself working closely with.
Choose a home builder
Once you’ve narrowed your options, I have a few words of advice on actually choosing your builder. Going with the lowest bid isn’t always the best choice, especially when building a custom or semi-custom home. You really need to take a look at the whole package and factor in the importance of a positive building experience. Also, be sure you are comparing apples to apples. A builder can cut costs by cutting quality or post-sale service, that is not necessarily something you want. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, it will make sure there are no misunderstandings during the build.
Get started with your home build
The new housing market is strong in Sioux Falls, and by all indications, it looks to remain this way through 2022. I am seeing continued growth in our residential neighborhoods as more people move to Sioux Falls and the surrounding areas. This is creating high demand for builders, which means you need to get on their schedules sooner rather than later.
The home building process can be fun and extremely rewarding. Most people do experience a few challenges along the way. A good builder will help you work through these, and together, you will end up with a home you can both be proud to call yours.
Happy home building!
