When you’re investing in something as big as your forever home, you want to make sure everything is as you’d like it, from the layout right down to faucet finishes, the skirting boards, and even the type of decor you plan to accessorise your abode with. So here are a few considerations to take into account when selecting home designers and builders to match your style.
1. Do your homework
With such a big project, it’s essential you don’t fall on anyone who will take advantage of you. So begin by making a list of every home designer and builder that piques your interest. Read their reviews and client testimonials. Look into the quality of the materials they use. If they use a national supplier, go check out their stores. Check out their accreditations, certificates, or any awards they have won. That’ll narrow down your options. Once you have a handful left, book a few consultations and meet the team. During the consultation, get to know them, explain what you’re looking for, and state your budget. Consider asking for references and checking them! We also strongly suggest you review their career history and training.
2. Trust your intuition
When going through your list of potential builders, listen to your gut. If something doesn’t add up during your research phase and still doesn’t feel right during the meeting phases, there’s probably a reason, and you should cut your losses. You’ll be working very closely with the designers for months, who will learn to get to know you on an intimate level to bring your dream home to life. Topics such as finance, family planning, your likes and dislikes are bound to come up during this process. So it’s vital that you feel comfortable and completely trust your home designer and builder with this sensitive information.
Things to look for include;
- Do they look you in the eye when they communicate?
- Do they really listen to you, and will they not just put you in a box with everyone else?
- Can you picture them being a friend outside of a professional setting?
Really listen to your intuition on this one.
3. Seek out home designers and builders who specialise in the type of build you’re looking for
One of the more immediate ways to determine whether a builder is right for you is by checking out the gallery on their website or their social page. There you’ll gauge an understanding of the aesthetic and style they typically build, the quality of the build and the way it’s designed. It’s the social proof you’re looking for.
Oftentimes homeowners choose designers for the wrong reasons, some of which include:
- Approaching well-reputed designers for their name and reputation but not willing to pay the price for it;
- Approaching designers who create high-end bespoke homes, but are on a tight budget;
- Approaching the cheapest documentation service and expecting excellent results;
- Approaching architects and expecting them to draw something up.
Be realistic with what you want and what you can afford. At the end of the day, you want a place you can be proud of and enjoy living in.
If you’re beginning the process of finding the right home designers and builders for your build, then you might consider putting Pacific Blue on your list. At Pacific Blue, we pride ourselves on being honest and transparent. We work collaboratively with you to listen to your needs and take the time to create quality outcomes. So when you’re ready to take the following steps, give us a call and book a consultation with us.
