Finding Reliable Contractors for Your New Construction Home
Finding Reliable Contractors for Your New Construction Home
When you buy a new construction home, everything from the roof to the foundation is new, new, new—and much of it will be protected by a builder’s warranty. Still, there may be times down the road when you’ll want to hire a home improvement or repair contractor. For instance, you might want to make upgrades that weren’t included when you bought your home or repair damage that’s not due to a construction defect.
Finding knowledgeable, reputable, and skilled contractors at reasonable prices isn’t always easy. While online review sites or referral platforms can provide a starting point, they often lack unbiased evaluations. To help you navigate this process, here’s expert advice from industry professionals:
1. Jeff Ho, President of J. Werho Construction
“Start with referrals from friends, family, and neighbors. Check local neighborhood websites for reviews. Once you’ve narrowed your search, verify the contractor’s certifications, state-issued license, and proof of insurance.”
2. Mark Galey, Owner of Master Home Remodelers
“Look for contractor cards at local hardware stores, paint companies, or home centers. Salespeople at these retailers often know who does quality work. Realtors can also provide credible referrals.”
3. Cassy Aoyagi, President of FormLA Landscaping
“Meet contractors in person. Their work impacts your home and health, so rapport matters. If you genuinely like them, it’ll improve your long-term satisfaction.”
4. Todd E. Miller, President of Isaiah Industries
“Avoid over-negotiating price—it can lead to corner-cutting. Hire someone responsive and thorough in communication. If they’re not helpful during the sales process, they won’t improve later.”
5. Matthew Breyer, President of Breyer Construction & Landscape
“Don’t focus on three estimates; instead, preselect three qualified contractors and build a relationship. Skip references—they’re handpicked. Verify project photos aren’t stock images or incomplete work.”
The Bottom Line
Finding great contractors takes time, especially for first-time homeowners or those new to an area. Avoid rehiring someone out of convenience if their work disappoints. A poor job could require paying another contractor to fix it. Build trust by being a reliable, prompt-paying customer—this attracts quality professionals who’ll value your business and refer you to peers.
