Deciding to build your dream home is an exciting milestone, and choosing the right builder is crucial to bringing that vision to life. Every builder works differently, but asking the right questions can help you find the perfect fit for your project.

In this article, we'll share the top 10 questions every homeowner should ask a potential builder, along with insights into how we at Hagstrom Builder approach each one. These questions touch on key aspects of the process, from design and budgeting to communication and project management, helping you gain the clarity and confidence needed for a smooth and successful experience.

As a Builder, When is the Ideal Time for You to Join the Design and Build Process?

We enjoy joining the team early in the design process to fully understand your goals and priorities, assist with budgeting, and foster a stronger sense of collaboration. This approach makes the entire project more enjoyable for everyone involved!

Do You Offer Design In-House, or Do We Need an Architect or Designer?

We do not have in-house design services. Instead, we collaborate with architects and designers to deliver the best results for our clients. This partnership allows us to work with any aesthetic while offering problem-solving expertise and quality on-site installation. Our portfolio showcases the benefits of this approach, from restoring the historic Asa Parker House to creating a sleek, modern home such as Cloud Forest. Regardless of the project style, our goal is always the same: to build an incredible, high-quality home and make our client’s dreams a reality.

How Does Collaboration Work Between the Builder, Architect, and Designer?

We work hand in hand with architects and interior designers to achieve the best results for our clients. During the design phase, we provide ongoing feedback on how design choices impact the budget and make sure to prioritize what matters most to the client while also honoring their budget. Once construction begins, we value continued collaboration with architects and designers to address on-site challenges and make necessary adjustments. Since every project is unique, thoughtful design input throughout the construction process is essential, and it’s one of the reasons we love what we do.

How Do You Manage Your Trade Partner Base? Do You Self-Perform Any Work?

We maintain long-standing relationships with trusted trade partners who align with our standards and processes. Having multiple partners in each trade allows us to ensure competitive pricing, maintain accountability, and keep projects on schedule without overbooking. While we don’t perform main scope items in-house, we have skilled carpenters on staff to handle miscellaneous tasks efficiently, providing added convenience for our jobsite supervisors.

When Will We Receive Initial Pricing, and How Do You Handle Change Orders?

Once an intent agreement is in place and the plans reach a "Pricing Set" stage, we send the project out for bids from our trade partners. This process takes two weeks, allowing time for questions and clarifications to ensure accurate pricing. After receiving the bids, we compile them into a detailed 52-line-item estimate, which takes an additional week. Once ready, we review the estimate with you and make any necessary adjustments. During the project, change orders are handled on a case-by-case basis. We obtain pricing and require client approval before proceeding. Change orders are compiled monthly and correlated with billing. We do not charge extra fees for change orders beyond the corresponding contractor fee.

Who Will Manage My Project Daily, and How Is Scheduling Handled?

Each project is assigned a dedicated job site supervisor, whom you will meet at the Project Start meeting. During this meeting, we review the construction schedule, get you familiar with Buildertrend, and outline our team’s structure. Your job site supervisor will be on-site daily, updating the online schedule and providing weekly progress updates. Buildertrend is also used to manage plan updates, change orders, and selections.

How Do You Manage Billing and the Lien Process?

After signing a contract, we require a 5% deposit. Once construction begins, we bill monthly based on completed work and deposits made for material orders. With each billing cycle, we provide lien waivers for the previous billing. Our billing reflects finished work rather than future work, ensuring full transparency. Payments can be made via check, wire transfer, or Buildertrend, and we’re always happy to review invoices with you at any stage of the build process.

What Are Your Main Forms of Communication, and How Often Will We Hear from You?

We primarily communicate via email for selection updates and approvals. Once construction begins, your job site supervisor becomes your main point of contact, available daily by phone and in person. We also hold regular site meetings with our office support staff to review progress and discuss upcoming tasks. For signing contracts and change orders, we use SignNow.

What Does Your Energy Testing Process Look Like?

As a certified Green Path builder, we are dedicated to delivering sustainable, high-performance homes. To achieve this, we conduct a comprehensive HERS (Home Energy Rating System) rating on all new construction projects, which involves multiple tests designed to optimize energy efficiency. A key component of this process is the blower door test, which we perform both when insulation is installed and at the completion of the home. This dual testing approach allows us to identify and address potential issues early, ensuring that each home we build is airtight and energy efficient. Our commitment to these top-tier building practices means that every home, whether the client is specifically seeking a ‘green’ home or not, is built to last and perform at the highest standards.

What Sets You Apart as a Builder?

We strive to make each project an enjoyable experience. In an industry often associated with stress, our goal is to create a smooth, engaging process from start to finish. By building personal relationships with our clients— a few of whose children end up referring to their job site supervisor as ‘uncle’—we foster a sense of trust and camaraderie that often extends well beyond the project’s completion. Transparency is a fundamental principle in our work as well. Our estimates break down 52 detailed line items, each linked to subcontractor quotes or specified allowances. With an open-book policy, we provide clients full access to all quotes and invoices, ensuring clarity at every stage. Ultimately, we aim to make sure you enjoy the journey as we bring your dream home to life.

Building your dream home is a significant milestone, and choosing the right builder is essential to ensuring a smooth and rewarding experience. At Hagstrom Builder, we believe in fostering collaboration, transparency, and trust to create homes that reflect your unique vision and priorities. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or are ready to start your project, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to start bringing your dream home or remodel to life!