Deciding on a builder is probably the most important decision you will make in your quest for your dream home. Why? Because your builder will become your partner for as long as it takes to build your house--plus for another year or more as he continues to provide service after you move in. He or she will be involved in every aspect of your new home. He will touch every part of the project from the plans, to the dirt, to the foundation, to the framing, sheetrock, plumbing, electrical, and trimwork. He will be the person you need to trust to keep the project on schedule, order the materials, pay the bills, and oversee the subcontractors to ensure they do the job right.

The builder needs to be a knowledgeable craftsman that brings his building expertise to the job.  He needs to be a negotiator who can effectively communicate with his vendors and subcontractors. And he needs to be a smart businessman who has had experience and has been able to successfully stay in business both in the good times and when the market has turned down.

So be diligent, and do your homework before selecting your builder. Check references. Ask former customers about the quality of worksmanship, completion time, budget management, and customer service during and after construction. Ask whether there were any unexpected "surprises," and don't forget to ask the most important question," Would you hire this builder again?" But don't stop at customer references, call the builders suppliers and ask whether this builder pays his bills on time and whether they have had any negative experiences when dealing with the builder. 

Afterall, building your dream house is a BIG investment. You need a partner who has an excellent reputation, has integrity and who you can trust.