[marjean]

We are seriously looking at the Huntsville area as our next place to live. We want to build a new house. I have done a lot of looking on line and researching realtor websites. I have come to the conclusion the best way to do it is to find a builder and then find out where he is building or if he will build on property we can find. When we moved here, I actually called and talked to the building inspector and asked him for recommendations. He gave me a couple and told me one to stay away from. It was really helpful. I am hoping someone here can help out though....if you have chosen one you are happy with or know of a good one, I sure would like to know about it. Are we allowed to give names? I think so. If not, click on my name and email me.

[harry chickpea]

You might want to consider modular and manufactured homes. I was amazed by the improvements that have been made in factory built homes, and the low cost. R-14 6" walls and sheet rock interior walls are just part of the changes. You can effectively increase your living space by at least one-third over what the same money in an onsite stick-built home will cost, and the tolerances can be closer when the home is built on jigs in a climate-controlled building.

Oh yeah, if a tornado comes along, it will rip apart just about any home you build, with the possible exception of underground, earth-bermed, or stone castle. The old "trailers fly apart in light winds" saw just isn't true with some of the newer, better constructed ones.

[Twostep]

Have you contacted the home builders' association? Construction lenders at local banks are also a good source of information.

[marjean]

Thanks for those suggestions. I have heard that modular homes have gotten a lot better. And, twostep, I have not checked with the home builders assoc yet but I will. And, never would have thought of the bank. I'll do that , too.

[BryanF]

Have you contacted the home builders' association? Construction lenders at local banks are also a good source of information.

Here's the deal with most local homebuilder's associations: every builder in the association is a member. Paid member, to be more specific. So while the association is a great source for getting names of area builders, you should use caution when using them as a source for getting recommendations of builders. The association can have a vested interest in success of certain buildes, and for them to steer business towards a particular builder may not be in your best interest.

Going the route of the building inspector was a great idea.

[dbkeel1]

Drive through new neighborhoods and look at homes under construction as well as those completed. Look at the fit and finish of the homes (quality) and the features or upgrades. Once you determine what you need/like in a home, call those builders - most have their own signs in the yard as well as those of Realtors. If there's no sign, then look for the posted building permit for the builder's name. Look them up in the phone book, online or call the Builder's Association to get their phone number(s). It's easy to do, really, just takes a little time commitment on your part. If you're from out of the area, then you might want to talk with a Realtor or two for their opinions, as well. We (I'm one) deal with the local builders daily and have our own preferences and opinions. That insight could be valuable in your decision-making process.