Submitted by Helena Rice for Rob Rice Homes
When you’ve decided to build or remodel, the most important decision to make is who you will choose as your builder and at the top of that list should be ensuring you are hiring a licensed contractor.
Go to: www.lni.wa.gov/tradeslicensing/contractors.com. Use your local Master Builders Association for a referral and then utilize this checklist below to be sure you’re making the right decision.
You can reach the Olympia Master Builders by calling (360)754-0912 or go to www.omb.org. Pierce County Master Builders can be reached at (253)272-2112 or go to www.mbapierce.com.
Here are some important questions to ask your prospective builder:
- Does the builder or remodeler have a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers?
- How long have they been in the building business? It usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business. Will they be around after the construction is complete to service any warranties?
- Have you called your local Better Business Bureau? They can alert you to any complaints.
- Does the builder/remodeler have sufficient workers compensation and general liability insurance? If not, you may be liable for any construction-related accidents on your premises.
- Will the builder/remodeler provide you with names of previous customers? Ask them if they would hire the builder/remodeler again.
- Have you seen the builder/remodelers work, both completed and in progress? Check for quality of workmanship and materials.
- Are you able to communicate with the builder/remodeler? Remember you will be in close contact with them throughout the construction process and afterward as you live in your new home.
- Will the builder/remodeler provide you with a complete and clearly written contract? The contract will benefit both of you. Review it carefully.
- Be cautious of unusually low-priced bids. If the builder/remodeler is unable to pay for the materials and labor as the project proceeds, this may indicate a potential problem.
Rob Rice, known for his stellar reputation in the building industry has built 19 new home communities with over 3,000 homes built since 1985. In 2014 he was awarded with the Best of South Sound award for best Contractor- New Construction. He is a member of the National Association of Homebuilders, and the Olympia Master Builders Association. Rob is a Life Director with the Olympia Master Builders and has been recognized locally and nationally for his new home communities. All of Robs Realtors are licensed agents specifically trained in new home construction.
In 2014, Rob began building custom homes for buyers as well. “We’ve had a lot of people want me to build one of my plans on a lot they own so I’ve started to do that. It’s been fun to diversify the business a bit and offer a full-service building business to South Sound consumers.” stated Rob. “We’ve always had a unique pre-sale process in our communities where our buyers can choose their desired lot and home plan and customize their home to their preference. Our custom home division operates very much the same way. A buyer owns their own lot, found their perfect home plan from my plan library and away we go. In most circumstances it is a 6-month building process. “
If you are interested in learning more about Rob Rice visit his community of Evergreen Heights in Olympia located at Marvin & Woodgrove: http://robricehomes.com/communities/evergreen-heights/ or Kensington located in Lacey off of College & 45th Avenue: http://robricehomes.com/communities/kensington/ or go to: www.robricehomes.com
