subject: Tips For Finding Local Builders In Melbourne And Surrounds [print this page] If you have employed a builder in the past, they may have asked you how you heard about them. Whilst this may seem like a strange question, they are actually asking for a reason. They are wondering how, amongst all of the other builders in Melbourne, you settled on them. If you are in the process of getting plans drawn up for your brand new house, however, you may be wondering how other people manage to find good contractors. The following outlines some of the best ways to locate local builders:
Architect/Draftsman
These people work with builders in Melbourne and surrounds all the time, as they are responsible for drawing up home plans and getting them approved by the local council. When meeting with an architect or a drafter, ask them whether they would be willing to provide you with referrals for some of the better builders in the local area.
Friends
If you know anyone who has taken on a building project, it is likely you will have already heard if their builder wasnt any good. It doesnt hurt to ask around, however, as your friends and family may have heard rumours or stories from people they know. They may also be able to recommend builders in Melbourne who did an outstanding job and who may have done only an okay job.
Local Bank
Whilst this may seem like an odd place to be asking about good builders in Melbourne, it actually makes sense when you think about it. The bank will underwrite a number of home loans each week for buyers and builders in your immediate area. This means that they have an inside knowledge of who went over budget and who stayed within their means, who is in financial trouble and who is financially stable, and so on. Whilst they cannot give you personal information, they will know who is good.
Realtors
Keep an eye out for open houses that are the result of a custom built project and attend them whenever possible. This will give you an opportunity to get an idea of the level of quality provided by the builder, as well as how well their work has aged over the years. You may also be able to find out who the contractor was by asking the real estate agent.
When it comes to building your new home, you want to choose the best contractor possible to ensure the high quality and safe construction of your project. By asking one or even more of the above people, you will be putting yourself in a much better position for finding an appropriate builder in Melbourne. Do not hesitate to ask additional questions to any of the people involved, as all this does is further your chances at making the best choice.