Consumer Information

Why build a home instead of buying a pre-existing one?

• New home buyers enjoy the ability to choose the finishes, fixtures, flooring, paint colors and more that suit their preferences and are often more durable, without the hassle or cost of changing the previous owner’s tastes.
  

  

• New homes are safer, with electrical wiring systems that can accommodate “smart” appliances and components such as high-definition TVs, security systems, fire alarms and complex lighting and audio setups.
• Data from the Census Bureau’s Residential Energy Consumption Survey shows, that on a per-square foot basis, the newer the home the less energy it uses. Compared to homes built before 1950, the average consumption of energy other than electricity is 46 percent lower in homes built after 2000.
• The Census Bureau’s American Housing Survey shows that maintenance costs on average were 56 percent lower in new homes; $547 a year for all single family homes versus $241 for homes built after 2008.
• A brand-new community is one of the built-in benefits of many new homes. When families move in to a subdivision at the same time, they often form lasting bonds of friendship and neighborliness right away. Nobody is the “new kid on the block,” and many home builders host community parties in new developments to help owners meet and connect.
• Popular amenities like pools, walking trails and tennis and basketball courts are generally available in newer communities.

How much does it cost to build a new home?

There is no set answer to this question. There are a lot of variables that go into building a new home from the square footage to the appliances and fixtures you choose. Depending on your budget you can build a home costing anywhere from $250,000 to more than $1 million. The best thing to do is talk to your builder about what is available within your budget.

Why choose an KCHBA member to build my home?

• Our members are part of a recognized trade association and are asked to adhere to a very specific code of ethics.
• By being affiliated with regional, state and national organizations, our members are exposed to the latest industry information, best practices and other important information that sets them apart from other companies.
• It is the most informed, most trained, most innovative, most financially stable companies who choose to join a HBA.
• Our members demonstrate a strong commitment to the industry and community.

How do I find the right builder?

Though builders might generally use similar tools and materials when building homes, not all are alike when it comes to things like technique, training and customer service. Consider asking the builder about the following:

Work Experience – You will want to find a builder with extensive experience building homes similar to the one you want. Ask to see examples of floor plans and designs they have completed to ensure his or her company can deliver what you need. You should also ask if they have or are working toward any professional designations, which show that the builder has advanced training in a particular area.

References – Any high-quality builder should be ready to provide you with several names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. If they cannot, consider that a red flag and walk away. When reaching out to those former clients, ask about how well the builder followed through on the initial plans, and if the builder met their expectations regarding budget and timing. Do not forget the most telling question of them all: If they could do it all over, would they hire that builder again?

Communication Style – Many builders will do their best to accommodate your communication preferences. But it is always best to establish expectations as early as possible. The frequency (weekly, monthly, as-needed, etc.) and method (phone, text, email) of how you communicate early on with each other is something that will set the tone throughout the whole building process.

Here are some questions to ask a builder.

Click here to find an industry professional.

What else does KCHBA offer?

The Home Builders Association of Kansas City hosts several events throughout the year to assist consumers with their home-buying and remodeling needs, including the Spring Parade of Homes, the Fall Parade of Homes and the Artisan Home Tour.