Building a custom home is a big investment—not just financially, but emotionally. You’re pouring your vision and hard-earned money into creating a space that reflects your unique style and needs. But how can you be sure you’ve found the right builder to bring that vision to life?

One of the most common concerns for homeowners is trust. How do you know the builder will deliver on their promises? How can you be sure they won’t cut corners or leave you with unexpected delays and extra costs? The answer is simpler than you might think: Check their references and reviews.

The primary way to ensure you’re making the right choice is by talking to past clients and reading real reviews. These first-hand experiences can provide invaluable insights into a builder’s reliability, craftsmanship, and communication. Let’s explore how references and reviews can give you peace of mind and help you choose a builder you can trust.

Why References and Reviews Matter

Imagine this: You’ve just had an amazing consultation with a builder. They seem professional, they’ve got great ideas, and they promise to stick to your budget. Everything sounds perfect... but what if it’s too good to be true?

Here’s the reality: anyone can put together a polished website or say the right things in a meeting. But references and reviews offer you a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to work with that builder. They give you insight into how the builder handled past projects, how they dealt with challenges, and whether their clients were satisfied with the end result.

Here’s why checking references and reviews is crucial:

•    They reveal real experiences: You get an unfiltered view of the builder’s performance.

•    They uncover potential red flags: If multiple reviews mention similar issues, like poor communication or budget overruns, you know to steer clear.

•    They provide peace of mind: Knowing that past clients had a positive experience reassures you that you’re making the right decision.

A Real-Life Example: Reviews that Sealed the Deal

Let’s take the story of a family who approached Marsden Homes to build their home in Ruakaka. The couple was excited but nervous about finding a builder they could trust. After a bad experience with another builder who failed to deliver on promises, they knew they needed to dig deeper before signing a contract this time.

They did their homework, asking Marsden Homes for references and checking online reviews. Past clients praised our open communication, attention to detail, and our ability to deliver on time—despite challenges. One review even highlighted how our excellent processes and systems kept our client up to date and informed to ensure the build went smoothly while they were in lockdown in Auckland.

Feeling reassured, the family decided to move forward with us, knowing they were in good hands. By the time the home was completed, they were thrilled—not only with the final result but with the stress-free experience.

Their takeaway? Checking reviews and talking to past clients saved them from making the same mistake twice.

What to Ask When Checking References

When you speak with a builder’s past clients, here are some key questions to ask:

•    How was the communication? Did the builder keep them updated regularly and respond promptly to concerns?

•    Were there any unexpected costs or delays? It’s important to know if the project stayed on budget and on schedule.

•    How did the builder handle challenges? Ask how the builder managed any problems that arose during the project.

•    Would you work with them again? This is one of the most telling questions. A glowing recommendation is often a sign of a builder’s consistency and professionalism.

How Marsden Homes Stands by Our Reviews

At Marsden Homes, we understand that building a custom home is a major commitment, and you need to feel confident in your choice of builder. That’s why we’re always happy to provide references from past clients and encourage new clients to check our reviews online. We believe that our track record speaks for itself—and we’re proud of the relationships we’ve built with our clients over the years.

Our 24hr client portal, fixed-price contracts, and transparent communication process have earned us praise from clients who appreciate knowing they’re always in the loop. We don’t just build homes; we build trust.

Actionable Steps for Choosing the Right Builder

Ready to check references and reviews for your custom home builder? Here’s how to get started:

1  Ask for at least three references: Speaking to multiple past clients gives you a well-rounded view of the builder’s performance.

2  Read online reviews on multiple platforms: Look at Google, Facebook, and industry-specific websites to see a variety of opinions.

3  Pay attention to recurring themes: If the same positive or negative points come up in multiple reviews, they’re worth considering.

4  Look for long-term feedback: Reviews from clients who have lived in their homes for a few years will give you insight into the builder’s long-term quality.

Conclusion: Verify Before You Trust

Choosing a builder for your custom home is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in the process. By checking references and reviews, you’re not just trusting what the builder says—you’re verifying it. This crucial step gives you the confidence that your project is in good hands, ensuring that your dream home becomes a reality without the stress of uncertainty.

Want to learn more about finding a builder who ticks all the boxes? Download our free eBook under resources on our website, for a more in-depth tips on choosing the right builder for your custom home.

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