Why budget shouldn't be a customer's only consideration.

While budget is of course a very important consideration when choosing a builder, it shouldn't be the sole determining factor. Relying solely on budget when selecting a builder can have negative consequences and may lead to problems down the line. Here are a few reasons why you shouldn't choose a builder based solely on budget:

A.    Quality of work: A builder offering the lowest bid may not always provide the best quality of work. Cutting corners, using subpar materials, or lacking attention to detail can result in a lower-quality end result. Ultimately, you want a builder who can deliver a project that meets your standards and stands the test of time.

B.     Experience and expertise: Builders with more experience and expertise often charge higher fees, reflecting their knowledge, skills, and reputation. Choosing a builder based solely on budget may mean sacrificing the expertise required to handle complex projects or specific design requirements. It's essential to assess a builder's experience and portfolio to ensure they have the necessary skills to execute your project successfully.

C.    Reliability and professionalism: A builder who offers a significantly lower bid may be cutting corners in terms of reliability and professionalism. They may lack proper licenses and insurance, have a history of missed deadlines or poor communication, or be more prone to financial instability. Choosing a builder based on reputation and track record is crucial for a smooth and reliable construction process.

D.    Hidden costs and change orders: Builders with low initial bids may use them as bait to secure the project and later add on additional charges or change order costs. This can lead to unexpected budget overruns and disputes. It's important to thoroughly review the builder's proposal and contract, including provisions for change orders, to understand how they handle unexpected situations and additional costs.

E.    Long-term costs: A builder who focuses solely on the upfront budget may not consider long-term cost savings and energy efficiency. Higher-quality materials or energy-efficient systems may have a higher initial cost but can result in significant savings over time through reduced maintenance, utility bills, or increased property value. Considering the long-term benefits and value of a builder's recommendations is crucial for making informed decisions.

F.     Relationship and communication: Building or renovating a project involves a significant amount of collaboration and communication between the builder and the client. Selecting a builder based solely on budget may result in a poor working relationship if there is a lack of effective communication, responsiveness, or compatibility. It's important to choose a builder with whom you can establish a good rapport and maintain open lines of communication throughout the project.

Whilst we are not saying that you shouldn’t choose the cheapest option for your builder, as we consider budget to be an important factor, it should be balanced with other critical considerations such as experience, quality, reliability, and professionalism. By considering these factors alongside the budget, you can make a more informed decision and choose a builder who will deliver the best overall value for your project.  The old adage of buy cheap, buy twice can unfortunately be the truth in building companies, as with other products and services.  So just make sure you do your research.