QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE HIRING A HOME BUILDER

Building a new home is one of the most exciting and significant investments you’ll ever make. But with hundreds of decisions to make, the process can quickly become overwhelming if you don’t have the right builder by your side. Whether you’re building your dream home in the Kansas City area, exploring a Build On Your Land option, or considering a move-in ready home, asking the right questions upfront can save you time, money, and stress.

At Comerio Homes, we believe informed buyers are the happiest homeowners. That’s why we’ve written this guide, to help you navigate conversations with any potential home builder, and make sure you’re partnering with the one that’s right for you.

1. How Long Have You Been Building Homes, and How Many Have You Completed?

Experience isn’t everything, but it matters. A builder who has been in business for many years and successfully completed dozens (or hundreds) of homes is more likely to have refined processes, trusted subcontractors, and a deep understanding of local zoning and building codes.

At Comerio Homes, we’ve spent years designing and building high-quality new construction homes in Kansas and Missouri. We offer over 50+ customizable floor plans, and our process is grounded in generations of craftsmanship and customer care.

Bonus Tip: Tour a model home or schedule a walk-through of a home currently under construction.

2. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Able to Pull All Required Permits?

This question is non-negotiable. Any reputable builder must be properly licensed in the state they operate in, insured for liability and workers’ comp, and capable of securing all necessary permits for your build.

You should also ask:

- Are you in good standing with local municipalities?
- Do you carry Builder’s risk insurance?

At Comerio Homes, we’re fully licensed and insured in Kansas, Missouri, and Arkansas. We’re also active participants in several local building associations and adhere to strict safety and compliance standards for every job site.

3. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer on Your Homes?

A builder’s warranty tells you how confident they are in their craftsmanship. A standard new home warranty should cover structural defects, major systems, and workmanship for specific periods—usually 1 to 10 years, depending on the component.

Ask these key questions:

- What is covered under the warranty?
- How long does each type of coverage last?
- Who handles repairs or service calls under the warranty?

We offer a comprehensive new home warranty with coverage for structural elements, mechanical systems, and general workmanship. Our team will walk you through every detail before closing and ensure you feel confident about what’s included.

4. What Types of Homes Do You Build—and How Customizable Are They?

Not all builders offer the same level of customization. Some only build from set floor plans with a few upgrade options. Others, like us, offer semi-custom and fully custom home builds that let you bring your vision to life.

At Comerio Homes, we build:

- Move-in ready homes in premier communities
- Semi-custom homes from our curated floor plans
- Custom homes on land you already own (learn more about our Build On Your Land program)

We also offer hundreds of design options and finishes, which you can explore in our Design Center. Whether you want a chef’s kitchen, spa-inspired primary bathroom, or smart home upgrades, our team can help you design it.

5. What’s Included in the Base Price—and What Counts as an Upgrade?

This is one of the most overlooked areas in the homebuilding process, and also one of the most important. Builders often advertise a “base price” that doesn’t include popular options like upgraded cabinetry, hardwood floors, or exterior stonework.

Be sure to ask:

- What features are included in the base price?
- What upgrades are available—and what do they cost?
- Are there any pre-selected packages I must choose from?

To avoid surprises, we provide a transparent breakdown of included features, upgrade pricing, and options before you sign your contract. That way, you know exactly what your home will cost.

6. Who Will Be My Point of Contact During the Build?

Clear communication is key to a smooth building experience. Ask your builder:

- Who will manage my project on-site?
- How often will I receive updates?
- Can I contact someone directly with questions?

At Comerio Homes, you’ll be assigned a dedicated Construction Manager to guide you through the entire process. You’ll receive regular updates, photos, and progress reports—and we’re always just a phone call away.

7. How Long Will Construction Take—and What Can Delay It?

You’ll need an accurate construction timeline to plan your move, sell your current home, or make financial arrangements. While unforeseen delays (like weather or supply issues) can happen, your builder should offer a reasonable estimate and update you if anything changes.

Questions to ask:

- What is the typical construction timeline?
- What are common causes of delay?
- How do you communicate updates or schedule changes?

At Comerio Homes, most builds take 6 to 9 months, depending on complexity and weather. We keep buyers informed at every stage, from groundbreaking to final walkthrough.

8. How Often Can I Visit the Job Site During Construction?

While we don’t recommend showing up unannounced for safety reasons, you should absolutely feel welcome on your job site. Your builder should schedule key walkthroughs to ensure everything meets your expectations.

Ask:

- Will I be allowed on-site during framing, plumbing, and electrical stages?
- Do I need to schedule visits?
- Will I have walkthroughs at key phases?

We encourage all clients to participate in scheduled site visits and walkthroughs. You’ll meet with your Construction Manager at important milestones to ask questions, approve details, and ensure your home is being built exactly how you envisioned.

9. What Financing Options Are Available?

Some builders partner with preferred lenders to streamline the financing process. Others may offer unique incentives or rate buydowns if you use their lender.

Ask:

- Can I bring my own lender, or do I need to use yours?
- Are construction loans required?
- Do you offer incentives like interest rate buydowns?

We work with several trusted lenders and financial institutions and can refer you to experts who understand new construction financing. If you’re considering building on your land, ask us about our construction-perm loan programs.

10. What Sets You Apart from Other Builders in the Area?

This is your chance to gauge the builder’s values, philosophy, and pride in their work. Their answer will give you insight into how they approach the building process, and what kind of relationship you can expect.

At Comerio Homes, we set ourselves apart by offering:

- Flexible floor plans and extensive personalization
- Exceptional communication throughout the build
- A boutique, hands-on experience with the resources of a larger builder
- Unmatched transparency and trust

We believe building your home should be exciting, not stressful! We’re committed to guiding you through every step.

Bonus: Red Flags to Watch Out For

While it’s important to know what to ask, it’s equally important to watch for warning signs:

Vague answers or reluctance to provide documentation
Unclear pricing or hidden upgrade costs
Poor reviews or lack of references
Pushy sales tactics or high-pressure timelines

If you sense something’s off, trust your instincts, and keep looking.

Ready to Start Building?

At Comerio Homes, we’re passionate about making the homebuilding journey personal, transparent, and rewarding. Whether you’re dreaming of a custom home in Overland Park, exploring new construction in Blue Valley Schools, or looking for land to build on in Kansas or Missouri, we’re here to help.

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