Purchasing a home is a big deal; and so is building a home. With all of the decisions that go into building a new Jacksonville home, perhaps the biggest decision that must be made is choosing your builder.

In fact, with so many builders out there promising homebuyers so many things, it can leave you with a spinning head. Therefore, the process of choosing your home builder should include a carefully thought-out plan. In particular, there are certain questions that every home buyer should ask their builder so that they can be sure they are making the right decision:

• Can you provide me with references? A quality homebuilder should have a list of references as long as his arm. If he is hesitant to provide you with references, or if he doesn't have them readily available, it may be best to move on. Also, if you are building in a community where homes have already been built, it always pays to simply ask your future neighbors about their home building experience with that particular home builder.


• What can you tell me about your business? One of the best things you can do is to research your home builder. How long has he been in business? How long has be built homes in your area? What kind of associations is he involved in? All of these questions will help you determine his experience and presence in the home building industry.


• What can you offer me that no other builder can? Many builders, in an attempt to get your business, will offer such things as building upgrades and extended home warranties. From upgraded appliances to higher-end countertops and fixtures, it pays to ask what the builder is willing to offer you as an enticement.


• What is the financial state of your company? With so many companies in financial peril, it certainly pays to do your research regarding the stability of the company through which your builder operates.