If you are building your new home, you’ll want to establish a strong relationship with your builder from the very start.

Here are 8 tips to keep you both on the same page throughout your build.

1. Have clearly laid out plans and intentions

When it comes to building you can’t make any assumptions. Everything you want should be written into the contract before the project commences. Making changes after this point is possible, but you need to be aware that your plans may need to go back to council for approval before the builder can continue.

2. Communication

The key to a strong relationship with your initial designer and home builder is having open and upfront communication. Know whom your site manager or point of contact is to discuss progress with and bring up any issues as they arise. If you understand what phase of construction they are at, it will make it easier to communicate and prevent misunderstandings.

3. Don’t delay on décor decisions

Just as you would do with your building plans, have your décor plan ready and signed off on early. Being clear about what you want with your interior design and styling, including the finer details, will make for an easier relationship with your builder. This means that there won’t be as much back and forth and you can order products early to prevent them being out of stock later down the track so you don’t have to settle for something you don’t love.

4. Be appreciative

Isn’t it nice when someone in your office tells you that you’re doing a good job? Do the same for your builder. If they feel appreciated and know that you’re happy with their quality of work, it’s going to make your working relationship much more solid.

5. Don’t micro-manage

You wouldn’t want someone standing over you in your workplace to make sure that you are doing everything correctly, so while it’s important to remain informed of the progress if that’s within your contract, try to stay out of the way and leave the experts to do what they do best!

6. Be mindful of weather conditions

Building often stops in inclement weather, as there are certain operations that cannot be performed while it is raining as it is unsafe or will compromise the quality of the work. While this may be inconvenient, it is not your builder’s fault. Try to remain understanding that certain factors are not always within their control.

7. Be patient

Quality building takes time and it’s important that it does – Rome wasn’t built in a day! Rushing is not going to help you achieve your desired result, and will only create unnecessary pressure without a long-term view of the finished product.

8. Choose a quality builder with a good reputation

Do your research and ensure you select a home builder with a proven positive track record for both standard of service and construction. If you’re working with a company you can trust and respect, it will make the whole process smoother and more pleasant from the get go.

At Design & Construct Residential, our Director Tom brings with him 30 years of experience in single storey home building and two storey home building, and he’ll be by your side throughout the building process. At the helm of your design will be our architect Graham and his team of experts who will transform your plans into a stunning reality.  Working with us means you’ll be in the safe hands of a reputable MBA and HIA Perth builder who will put your mind at ease. Hear what previous clients have to say about the team.

Don’t delay – contact Design & Construct Residential to find out how we can help today.