CHOOSING THE RIGHT BUILDER

Building a custom home in Florida is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. The right builder can turn your vision into a smooth, exciting process — and the wrong one can cost you money, time, and endless frustration. Here are the most common mistakes homeowners make when selecting a builder, and how to avoid them.

CHOOSING BASED ON THE LOWEST BID

It’s tempting to go with the cheapest number on paper, but a low bid often means corners will be cut or costs will balloon later. Some builders underbid just to get the contract, then rely on change orders to increase the final price.

• Better Approach:  Look for transparency. A good builder will provide a detailed, realistic estimate that reflects actual costs in today’s market.

NOT CHECKING EXPERIENCE WITH YOUR TYPE OF PROJECT

Not every builder is equipped to handle a multi-million-dollar custom home with complex architecture. Some may have experience in production housing or remodels but lack the systems, subcontractor network, and financial stability for a large-scale project.

• Better Approach:  Ask about past projects that are similar in size, style, and budget to yours. In Central Florida, that means hurricane-rated construction, luxury finishes, and high-performance systems.

OVERLOOKING COMMUNICATION STYLE

Building takes months, sometimes years. If your builder isn’t responsive, clear, and proactive, frustration builds quickly. Many homeowners realize too late that they’ve hired someone who doesn’t explain costs, timelines, or changes.

• Better Approach:  Pay attention in the early conversations. Does the builder answer questions directly? Do they provide clear next steps? A builder who communicates well before you sign will communicate well throughout construction.

IGNORING BUILDER'S FINANCIAL STRENGTH

Luxury custom homes require large upfront purchases and consistent cash flow to keep subcontractors moving. If a builder doesn’t have strong financial backing, projects stall and homeowners get caught in the middle.

• Better Approach:  Choose a builder who is approved with local banks for construction loans and can show proof of insurance and financial stability.

FORGETTING ABOUT FIT AND TRUST

Even with experience and credentials, you need to feel comfortable with your builder. You’ll be working closely with them and their team for months, usually on daily basis.

• Better Approach:  Ask yourself: Do I trust this builder with my money, my vision, and my family’s home? If the answer isn’t a clear yes, keep looking.

NOT UNDERSTANDING THE BUILDER'S PROCESS

Every builder has a process, but not every process is designed to protect the homeowner. Some leave you juggling architects, designers, and engineers on your own. Others offer a design-build model, where everything is coordinated under one roof.

• Better Approach:  Ask the builder to walk you through their process step by step, from design and permitting to budgeting, selections, construction, and move-in. A clear process creates predictability and peace of mind.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The builder you choose is the single most important decision you’ll make in the custom home journey. Avoiding these mistakes — chasing the lowest price, skipping due diligence, or ignoring communication and trust — can save you enormous headaches. At Deep Roots Construction, we believe in complete transparency on all aspects of the construction process. Our goal is simple: to make building your dream home as exciting and stress-free as living in it.