When buyers tour model homes in Kansas City, they usually fall in love with the…
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Home Builder
Choosing the right builder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when creating your new home. The builder you select will shape your construction experience, the quality of your home, and your long-term satisfaction. With so many custom home builders in Kansas City to consider, asking the right questions helps you compare options confidently and choose a team that aligns with your expectations. Perhaps you are thinking about 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.
This guide highlights the essential questions every buyer should ask whether you’re interviewing a Kansas City custom home builder, exploring multiple companies, or preparing for your first custom home consultation.
➡️ Check out our move-in ready home
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters
Building a custom home is more than a transaction, it’s a partnership. You’ll collaborate with your builder for months, which makes clarity and communication essential from the very beginning. Asking thoughtful questions helps you:
- Understand how the builder operates
- Learn what services are included
- Clarify expectations around pricing, timelines, and quality
- Compare builders based on value, not just marketing
- Avoid surprises or misaligned expectations later
These questions help you evaluate custom builders in Kansas City with confidence.
Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Home Builder
1. How Long Have You Been Building Homes, and How Many Have You Completed?
Experience isn’t everything, but it plays a major role when comparing custom home builders in Kansas City. A builder with years of experience and a strong portfolio of completed homes typically has established processes, reliable trade partners, and a thorough understanding of Kansas City’s zoning, soil conditions, and building requirements.
At Comerio Homes, we’ve spent years designing and building high-quality homes throughout Kansas and Missouri. With 50+ customizable floor plans and a legacy rooted in craftsmanship, we bring consistency, expertise, and personalized care to every project.
Bonus Tip: Tour a model home or schedule a walk-through of a home currently under construction to see quality firsthand.
2. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Able to Pull All Required Permits?
This question is non-negotiable. Any reputable Kansas City custom home builder must be fully licensed, insured, and authorized to pull all necessary permits for your project.
You should also ask:
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- Are you in good standing with local municipalities?
- Do you carry Builder’s Risk Insurance?
At Comerio Homes, we are fully licensed and insured in Kansas, and Northwest Arkansas. We are active members of local building associations and follow strict safety and compliance standards across every jobsite.
3. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer on Your Homes?
A builder’s warranty reflects confidence in their craftsmanship and protects your investment long-term. A comprehensive new home warranty typically covers structural elements, major systems, and workmanship.
Ask these key questions:
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- What is covered under the warranty?
- How long does each type of coverage last?
- Who handles warranty-related repairs or service calls?
We offer a detailed, comprehensive new home warranty that includes structural components, mechanical systems, and workmanship. Before closing, our team walks you through every details so you know exactly what’s included.
4. What Types of Homes Do You Build and How Customizable Are They?
Not all custom builders in Kansas City provide the same level of personalization. Some offer limited structural changes, while others, like Comerio Homes, provide a range of semi-custom and fully custom options.
At Comerio Homes, we build:
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- Move-in ready homes in premier communities
- Semi-custom homes based on curated floor plans
- Fully custom homes on land you already own (Build On Your Land program)
Our Design Center offers hundreds of finishes and design upgrade options. Whether you imagine a chef-inspired kitchen, spa-style primary suite, or integrated smart home system, our team will help you design a home that fits your lifestyle.
5. What’s Included in the Base Price and What Counts as an Upgrade?
This is one of the most important questions to ask when comparing the best custom home builder in Kansas City. Builders define “base price” differently, and what’s included can vary widely.
Be sure to ask:
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- What features come standard?
- Which upgrades are available, and what are their costs?
- Are there predetermined design packages?
At Comerio Homes, we provide a clear breakdown of included features, upgrade pricing, and design options before you sign your contract, ensuring transparency and no surprises.
6. Who Will Be My Point of Contact During the Build?
Clear communication has a direct impact on your building experience.
Ask your builder:
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- Who will manage my project day-to-day?
- How often will I receive updates?
- Who can I contact with questions throughout the build?
At Comerio Homes, you’ll work with a dedicated Construction Manager who provides consistent updates, photos, and progress reports. We believe that great communication builds trust and leads to a smoother, more enjoyable homebuilding experience.
7. How Long Will Construction Take and What Can Delay It?
A realistic construction timeline is essential when planning your move, selling your current home, or securing financing. While weather and supply chain issues can cause delays, your builder should give you a clear expectation up front.
Questions to ask:
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- What is the typical construction timeline?
- What commonly causes delays?
- How will I be notified if timelines change?
Most Comerio Homes builds take 6 to 9 months, depending on complexity and weather conditions. Throughout the process, we keep you informed from groundbreaking to final walkthrough.
8. How Often Can I Visit the Job Site During Construction?
While jobsite visits must be scheduled for safety reasons, you should feel welcome to visit your home throughout construction.
Ask:
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- Will I be allowed on-site during framing, plumbing, and electrical stages?
- Do I need to schedule visits ahead of time?
- How many walkthroughs will we complete together?
We encourage scheduled site visits at key milestones. Your Construction Manager will walk you through important phases, answer questions, and ensure the home aligns with your expectations.
9. What Financing Options Are Available?
Many builders partner with lenders familiar with new construction financing. Some offer incentives like rate buydowns or closing cost assistance.
Ask:
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- Can I use my own lender, or do i need to use yours?
- Are construction loans required?
- Do you offer financial incentives pr interest rate buydowns through preferred lenders?
We work with several trusted lending partners who understand the nuances of construction financing. If you’re interested in building on your land, we also offer guidance on construction-perm loan programs.
10. What Sets You Apart from Other Builders in the Area?
This question gives you insight into the builder’s philosophy, process, and customer experience, which is essential when comparing a trusted custom home builder.
At Comerio Homes, we set ourselves apart by offering:
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- Flexible floor plans and extensive personalization
- Strong communication and hands-on support
- A boutique customer experience backed by the resources of an established builder
- Transparency, integrity, and a client-first approach
We believe the homebuilding process should feel exciting, not stressful, and we are committed to guiding you every step of the way.
Bonus: Red Flags to Watch Out For
Knowing the right questions to ask is essential, but recognizing warning signs is just as important when evaluating custom home builders in Kansas City. Pay attention to builders who show any of the following:
- Vague or incomplete answers, especially when asked for documentation
- Unclear pricing structures or unexpected upgrade costs
- Poor online reviews or hesitation to provide references
- High-pressure sales tactics or unrealistic timelines
If something feels off, trust your instincts and continue exploring other options. The right builder should make you feel informed, supported, and confident throughout the process.
Ready to Start Building?
At Comerio Homes, we’re passionate about creating a homebuilding experience that is personal, transparent, and genuinely rewarding. Whether you’re dreaming of a custom home in Overland Park, exploring new construction in the Blue Valley School district, or looking for land to build on in Kansas, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
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📞 Call us at (913) 270-2871







