Do you know the key differences between custom home builders and volume builders—and how those differences will impact your dream home?
If you don’t, you might be drawn in by the promise of flexibility and choice from a volume builder, only to face a frustrating reality of limited design options, rushed builds, and poor communication. As your project progresses, you could end up chasing an overworked supervisor and struggling to stay within budget due to unexpected variations.
But what if you chose a custom home builder who understood your unique needs, offered a guaranteed fixed price, and kept you informed throughout the process?
By working with a custom builder like Activate Development, you can enjoy an organized, stress-free building experience, resulting in a home that perfectly suits your lifestyle, delivered to the highest standard.
Custom Builds Ensure Attention to Detail
According to Mozo, the average cost to repair defects in new builds is nearly $6,000—highlighting the importance of choosing a builder who prioritizes quality and communication.
Volume builders often treat clients as just another number, focusing on speed over quality. Their supervisors typically juggle dozens of builds simultaneously, rushing between sites with limited time to inspect each project. This approach can result in defects being overlooked and a lower standard of workmanship.
In contrast, custom builders like Activate Development work closely with their clients, taking the time to understand your vision and goals. We are committed to meticulous craftsmanship and pride ourselves on delivering homes that exceed expectations.
While some might assume custom builders are more expensive, the reality is that volume builders often operate on higher margins, meaning you could pay the same—or even more—for a substandard home.
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Builder
To ensure your home is built to the highest standard, here are some important questions to ask when comparing builders:
1. What Is the Supervisor’s Workload?
Find out how many projects the supervisor responsible for your home is managing at one time.
Volume builders often overload their supervisors with 20+ builds, leading to rushed inspections and unresolved defects. In contrast, custom builders like Activate Development limit supervisor workloads, ensuring more attention to detail and consistent quality across all projects.
2. What’s Included in the Contract?
Before signing a contract, carefully review the standard inclusions list.
Volume builders may use generic or low-quality items, such as cheap plumbing fixtures or single power outlets, which can compromise the functionality and longevity of your home.
At Activate Development, we provide a detailed, itemized inclusions list specifying trusted brands and product codes. This transparency ensures you know exactly what’s being installed and guarantees durable, high-quality finishes.
3. Who Will Be Your Point of Contact?
Ask who your direct contact will be during the build.
Some builders provide an office liaison who acts as a go-between, slowing down communication and limiting access to critical updates. Custom builders, like Activate Development, connect you directly with the construction manager and guarantee timely responses. This open line of communication ensures you stay informed and confident throughout the building process.
Build with Confidence
Choosing the right builder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when creating your dream home. By partnering with a custom builder like Activate Development, you’ll benefit from personalized service, exceptional quality, and a seamless building experience.
To help you make the best choice, download our free guide, “The 6 Things You Must Know Before Designing Your New Home.” This resource will help you identify the perfect builder to turn your vision into reality.
Click below to download your copy and start building your dream home with Activate Development—your trusted builders Sunshine Coast.
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