How to choose the right builder

Buying a home can be risky business unless you know what to look for in the way of quality.

This means determining if a builder is reputable, identifying solid interior and exterior design, identifying sound construction materials and techniques and knowing what constitutes superior service.

In many ways, the process of choosing a new home is the same as choosing a new car -- reputable brand, style and design, quality components and workmanship and expectations of customer service.

When shopping for a home, you know what you can afford and you look for homes in that price range. You drive to a number of communities, but some don't feel right -- you don't know the builder, you don't know anyone who's bought a home from that builder and you see from the sales brochure that the company hasn't been in business very long.

According to Nancy Johnson, Director of Warranty Services for Wiseman-Hughes Enterprises, new home buyers should look for a builder that has been in business for at least 25 years -- the longer the better.

"You can only stay in business for a long time if you are doing everything right," she explained. "This means that you have a proven track record for quality construction, providing the types of homes that will stand the test of time, and a good reputation that brings in the referrals a builder needs to stay in business."

A reputable builder will provide an easy to understand warranty. It should be all-encompassing, covering material and workmanship for at least the first year and the structure (foundation, walls and support elements) for 10 years.

When it comes to choosing the community, first think about the location and your lifestyle.

• Is it convenient to work?

• Is it convenient to shopping?

• Are there quality schools in the area?

• Are there traffic problems?

• Are municipal services available?

• Is there good police and fire protection?

• Is there a good medical facility in the area?

• Are parks and recreational facilities available?

• Are there cultural activities in the area?

Other consideration include:

• Are property values appreciating?

• Is the neighborhood well maintained?

• Is the neighborhood safe?

• Is the area growing?

• Are roads well maintained?

• Is the local economy stable?

• Are future highways or developments planned?

• Will your children have playmates in the neighborhood?

• Is the property's topography appealing?

• Are there open spaces or common land nearby?

One of the best ways to decide if a particular new car is right for you is to go for a test drive. The goal is to find out how comfortable it is -- how it feels, without being influenced by the appearance.

And you'll want to get the feel of every community you visit also. When you drive into the property the first time, pay attention to your gut reaction. Do you feel vaguely uncomfortable and don't know why? Or does it feel like home?

Wiseman-Hughes is a family-owned business that has been building homes in the Chicago suburbs for 50 years. Current communities include: The Plaza on New York in Aurora; Randall Highlands in North Aurora; The Ponds of Sycamore; Devonaire Farms in DeKalb; Windett Ridge in Yorkville; and Ashcroft Place and Ashcroft Walk in Oswego. For information, visit www.WisemanHughes.com.