Finding a Log Home Builder You Trust by David Janczak (Founder/Owner of Wisconsin Log Homes, Inc)

The search for a qualified contractor should begin as soon as you have a building site and preliminary drawings, even if you don’t plan to break ground for several months. It may take time to find a contractor who suits your requirements, and once you find the right one, you’ll have to be worked into the contractor’s schedule. Those who are good and in-demand, and those in areas with a short building season, often schedule projects up to a year in advance.

Reputation, experience, references, crew size and the builder's willingness to provide excellent customer service are all important considerations in making your decision. Once you have several qualified names in hand, obtain references and interview each builder. Only ask for bids from the contractors you feel comfortable with. Remember, the bids will only be as good as the plans you submit. You should use the same drawings you submitted to get your building permit. Any changes to the plans should have been made by this time. Do your homework and make as many decisions as possible before you ask for bids. Give each contractor exactly the same information so you’ll be able to obtain a fair comparison, and be certain you ask for the same level of detail from each bidder.

One of the biggest mistakes people make is to base their decision on price alone. Even though builders are getting the same plans and information, they can build with varying degrees of quality and service. You should not only feel comfortable with the price, but with the quality of workmanship, organization, the schedule and contract, and the person in general. He/she will be your new business partner for the next few months. If you seek the same level of workmanship, organization, and can trust one another, the construction process will flow much smoother and you’ll be able to relax.

Since the 1970’s, Wisconsin Log Homes has understood the need for complete design and build services. Finding a qualified builder to construct their log or timber home has always been a big concern of our clients, and one we’ve addressed right from the start. Wisconsin Log Homes has its own building crews and National Builder Network full of qualified builders around the world who we work very closely with and trust to provide “rough up and log” and “turn-key” construction services for our customers.

Each of our clients are assisted with the construction of their home in one form or another during their experience with us. Some may decide to use our in-house construction services, while others want help qualifying or selecting a builder in their area. Whatever the client chooses to do, we stay involved throughout the design and build process to ensure high quality and satisfaction.

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