Question re builder meeting (Houston: home builder, new construction, moving)

[Ms.Sunshine01]

We decided to go with new construction. Everything moving fast. We have meet the builder/builder meeting. What to expect? What to ask? We have never build a home or know anyone gone through this. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[nissan]

If this is the meeting before your design center appointment, expect the builder to just walk you through any structural selections you made at contract and he'll have you sign off on all pages of the blueprints to ensure all of the stuff you previously requested made it into his plans. He might also go over some other stuff like where you want switches/outlets placed if you want them shifted from their standard locs. E.g. if you want an outlet moved to inside the cabs.

If it's after the design ctr appointment, it should include the above plus any material design center choices that may affect the build (e.g. addt'l outlets/ethernet drops, recessed lighting, etc.). They'll likely ask where you want these placed, if not already designated by you.

You can use this as an opportunity to also clarify any questions you have about the construction process and particulars directly w the person managing the construction of your home.

[MurphyPl1]

Ask them if the subs will all get and use the red line drawing. We made all the changes and then discovered the subs were using the drawings from a spec version of our same model. Created big and small problems because of the ripple effect.

[Johnhw2]

I have never owned a new home. So take my thoughts.with that major caveat. I served as CFO of a major Houston area community developer and home builder. I believe the two most important factors for success in your build are the builders culture/ reputation and the superintendent if your build. so ask about the super and his resume and ask if he is not selected yet ask off you can see the resumes of their supers under consideration for your job. They likely won't let you plat a role in selection but this tells them where your focus is. Plan to get to know and learn how to work closely with him. Donuts orbreakfast tacos for the crew occasionally never hurts either. Treat these guys well for they are as much your house as plans and builder are.

[MurphyPl1]

Good point. Our superintendent had only done specs and did not want to deal with customers. We knew he'd a bonus if the final walk thru had like 10 items or less and were happy to help him get that. Instead he left problems that created bigger problems and finally told me to just suck up the wrong front door. Got him kicked off the job. Better replacement superintendent finished the project but got stuck with 160 punchlist items.

[Ms.Sunshine01]

These are great points. Thank you. This is pre design center appointment.