We’ve been in the custom home building game for a while now, and let’s just say—we’ve seen things. From clients who needed us to fix someone else’s mess to those who came to us mid-project after being let down, it’s clear: not all builders are created equal.
So, how can you tell if your home builder is ripping you off? There are some pretty clear signs. Here are some of the big ones to watch out for:
1. Unusually Low Bids – Too Good to Be True? Probably.
It’s tempting, we know. You get a bid that’s significantly lower than others, and you’re thinking, “Score!” But hold up—before you pop the champagne, take a closer look. Is everything actually included in that bid?
We’ve had clients bring us bids from other local builders, and while the price might look great on paper, it’s often not an apples-to-apples comparison. A lot of builders will leave out key finishing items like vanities, light fixtures, appliances, even driveways. So what you’re really getting is a shell of a home—and then you’re stuck footing the bill for everything else.
At Made to Last Custom Homes, we do things differently. We give you a clear, detailed estimate that includes everything—start to finish. No surprises. No budget blowouts. Just a realistic number you can bring to the bank and actually plan around.
2. Lack of Communication – Feeling Left in the Dark?
Building a home is a big deal, and you should never feel like you’re being kept in the dark. If your builder is slow to respond, vague with answers, or just plain hard to get a hold of, that’s a major red flag.
A good builder should keep you in the loop every step of the way. You deserve regular updates, transparent timelines, and clear answers to your questions. If that’s not happening, it’s time to ask why.
At Made to Last we provide every client of ours a Project Manager that will prioritize clear, consistent communication—because you deserve to know what’s happening with your home every step of the way. You will also have access to BuildBook which is an online platform that provides you with a home building timeline.
3. No References, No Reviews = Big Risk
Would you hire someone without checking their references or reviews? Hopefully not. But you’d be surprised by how many people skip this step when choosing a builder.
Before you sign on the dotted line, do your homework. Look at their past projects. Ask for references. Better yet—ask to walk through one of their completed homes. A reputable builder will be proud to show off their work and connect you with happy clients.
Bottom Line: Don’t let a smooth sales pitch or a low bid blind you to what’s really going on. A quality home builder should be honest, transparent, and fully equipped to deliver on their promises.
At Made to Last Custom Homes, we believe in doing things the right way—from the first bid to the final walk-through. If you’ve got questions or want a second opinion on a quote you’ve received, let’s talk. We’re here to help you build a home that’s truly Made to Last.
So, you are ready to build, but how do you pick a Home Builder? Click here to read “How to Choose a Custom Home Builder.”