Home Builder vs. General Contractor
Are you building a new home and are wondering whether you should hire a home builder vs. a general contractor? While many people consider them the same thing, they have very important differences.
If you’re building a home near Manasquan, NJ, consider hiring RALCO Builders to design and build your perfect home. Contact us today for a design consultation.
Home Builder vs. General Contract: What's the Difference?
While a general contractor enters the building process after you’ve designed your home with an architect, a dedicated home builder is with you throughout the entire journey.
Have you heard the phrase, “A jack of all trades, master of none?” That characterizes the difference between dedicated home builders and general contractors. While general contractors have more flexibility in the types of construction projects they undertake, a dedicated home builder specializes in creating your perfect home.
The Benefits of a General Contractor
General contractors bring a couple of subtle benefits that give them the edge over dedicated home builders in a few specific cases.
1. Access to Flexible Talent
Because general contractors don’t keep a dedicated and consistent team, they’re much more flexible in choosing the right subcontractors for each individual job. Depending on your budget, situation, and the specifications of your home, they can find the best talent. Contractors typically network more broadly and stay up to date on the area’s best electricians, plumbers, landscapers, and more. However, because they make their profit by adding an additional charge to their subcontractor’s fees, general contractors are frequently more expensive.
2. Perfect For Generalized Projects
If you’re building a home that doesn’t require any unique situations or is a “standard build,” a general contractor is a good fit. They can complete your project efficiently and within budget, and you won’t need to worry about design specifications or delaying the process. General contractors are also a great fit for smaller homes!
The Benefits Of A Dedicated Home Builder
When considering a home builder vs. general contractor, you can’t deny the benefits of a builder specializing in home construction.
1. Generally More Affordable
Because they cut out the middle man and maintain a consistent team, dedicated home builders are usually more affordable than a general contractor. When you change something in your design during construction, they can afford more flexibility than general contractors.
2. Best For Custom Houses
If you want a non-cookie-cutter house, partner with a home builder to ensure excellent communication throughout the entire process. A contractor can’t compete with the flexibility and clear communication a home builder provides while designing and building a custom home.
How to Choose a Home Builder or Contractor
At RALCO Builders, we provide the best of both worlds when it comes to dedicated builders and general contractors in Manasquan, NJ. While we’re general contractors, we specialize in designing and building custom homes. Whether you’re considering working with us or another contractor, ask these questions to confirm we’re the best option.
What's Your Reputation?
Always look at the company’s reviews and reputation. Online reviews can reveal how well a contractor or business takes care of their clients.
At RALCO Builders, our reviews make it clear: we’re the best home builders in the Manasquan area. With us, every client is a happy client.
What's Your Insurance, And Do You Provide Certification?
Your contractor should carry full liability insurance to prevent you from paying for their costly mistakes. If they can’t or won’t name their insurance company, they’re possibly hiding something.
Additionally, a contractor’s best business practice dictates they provide you with a certificate of insurance. If they don’t, hire someone else.
Do You Obtain Permits?
While general contractors usually handle obtaining permits, dedicated homebuilders might not. The permit process is often complicated and drawn out, so an excellent business will handle it for you. At RALCO Builders, we maintain excellent connections with all the construction offices, so we can often complete the process quickly.
Do You Provide Contracts?
Contracts protect both you and the builder. Never hire a business that won’t provide a legal contract outlining its duties and deliverables
How Long Have You Been In Business?
Construction is a difficult business, so never underestimate the benefit of longevity. We have unparalleled experience, and our founder has worked in the business for more than 15 years.
Choose RALCO Builders to Build Your Next Custom Home
Now that you know the differences between a home builder vs. a general contractor, you can confidently choose RALCO Builders for your next project. To us, the most important home is yours, and we’re standing by to take your call and build the home of your dreams. Reach out for a consultation today.