The Journey to Your New Home: Step 1 - The Quote

Keith Sawlor, March 6, 2014 | Posted in Research; Tagged Builders

The first step in the home building process is to get a quote from a reputable builder.

To get an accurate quote, you’ll need to clearly communicate your expectations and your budget. You and your potential builder should review your plans together and discuss every component. This is an absolutely critical part of the process.

If you do not have a detailed discussion, your builder is left to price your home in whatever manner they thinks is best. This may result in a house that meets the minimum standards of construction, but is not even close to what you are expecting in terms of your home’s finish, products, and energy efficiency. 

After you have given all of the information to your builder, it may take two to three weeks for them to prepare the quote. This document could be 20 to 30 pages long, and it will clearly state what is included (or not included) in their proposal.

The review of the quote will confirm all the products and systems the builder intends to incorporate in your new home. If the quote contains everything you wanted and meets your budget, you are ready for the next step >>  The Contract!

But wait.... You've received quotes from multiple builders.. What if Builder A provides you with a quote that is much lower than Builder B? You might think you’re getting a great deal—but a great deal doesn’t necessarily equal great value.  Learn more from >>  "Lowest Quote Versus Best Value".

Keith Sawlor

Keith Sawlor is the second generation Owner of Sawlor Built Homes. With more than 35 years experience building custom homes in Nova Scotia, Keith has built a team that mirrors his professional knowledge and values.

Keith is a Certified Residential Builder who is also certified with many leading industry organizations. He is a Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) Certified Builder, a Net Zero Energy (NZE) Certified Builder, a Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) R-2000 Certified Builder, and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).

Keith is a Past Board Member of the Atlantic Home Warranty Program as well as the Canadian Home Builders' Association Nova Scotia. He is involved in many other industry programs and associations, such as the Canadian Home Builders’ Association National and Better Business Bureau.