Kotari wanted to expand on the aspects that make them different from the competition while adding value to readers.
We achieved both through a no-nonsense writing style that matches owner Magdelana's personality, proven information and genuine concern for the customer.
He has crafted two exceptional brand packages for me, showcasing his remarkable talent. Through thoughtful consideration, he successfully captured our identity and values, translating them beautifully into our branding.
What sets Ethan apart is his genuine professionalism; he is one of the most sincere individuals I have had the pleasure of collaborating with. His openness to feedback and commitment to exceeding expectations ensure that he consistently delivers outstanding results for his clients."
There's a good chance you've heard some horror stories about builders leaving their clients high and dry; we've listened to them, too. From reports of financial mismanagement, questionable craftsmanship and massive budget overages or changes, it's a sad truth that the industry has no shortage of dodgy players. How can a customer know their builder should be trusted with the most significant purchase they may ever make? How does one tell that a company will produce a result that is fit for their future home? We've prepared a list of qualities to look for based on the high standards we aim to model here at Kotari Constructions.
Hands-On & Attentive
Consider how focused their sales representatives are and how detailed the answers they provide to you are. Do they respond thoroughly and engage in conversations, or are they dismissive and hasty? Also, consider the state of their marketing materials; are they dated or match their products? An attentive and detail-oriented builder won't be content with a mediocre web experience, and neither should you.
Reliable and Proven Processes
Once you've contacted a builder, this should become more and more apparent. Do they respond promptly? Are there many oversights in their initial stages of design planning? Consider whether you encounter long delays, frustrating redundancies or discrepancies in the information you're given. Be sure to file everything you receive to identify tell-tale patterns. A well-run company will have a smooth and intuitive process for most, if not all, things.
A Client-First Approach
Pay attention to how they describe the work; if a builder is rearing to get the job done but seems to be missing the details or forgetting things, chances are they aren't as detail-oriented as they need to be. Have they made careless oversights, neglected aspects of a build or failed to mention potential extra cost areas towards you? If so, consider whether they have your best interests in mind. A builder who cares will always treat you as the core priority of what they do.
Accredited and Certified
A great benchmark to look for, though many builders claim these credentials with minimal experience. A builder who isn't certified or licensed can't be trusted with your project; aim to find someone who has all their numbers in order and has extensive experience. An accredited master builder is a company that has proven its skills and commitment to quality. Kotari is proud to serve Canberra with decades of experience and a well-earned reputation, and we are fully licensed and accredited master and passive-home builders.
A Great Community Reputation
Take reviews for what they are; a great indicator of the experience of others. Anyone who uses the internet can access public reviews that paint a vivid picture of a business. While some thoughts are nonsensical or unfair, consider the lengthy reviews that provide details and seem unemotional and objective. Great customer experiences don't happen accidentally; a great review usually results from hard work and dedication behind the scenes.
No-Nonsense Guarantees
A builder should stand behind their work. A company that is unclear or stingy with its guarantees should raise a red flag for those considering a build. Be sure to find a builder with a comprehensive and reasonable warranty.
Evidence of Satisfied Customers and Stunning Craftsmanship
Quality builders should be proud of what they have accomplished, and their clients should rave about the quality of their homes. If someone hesitates to talk about their builder, that's a tell-tale sign that they may not have enjoyed their experience.
Generous with Site Visits
Many builders only allow their clients to visit the site a couple of times during the build; we here at Kotari disagree with that. That's why we often offer site visits within WHS guidelines and legislation. We want our clients to feel connected to what's happening every moment.
In addition to what we've listed above, consider the products that the builder has displayed; are they thoughtful, attractive and practical? What materials do they offer, and are they supplied by reputed manufacturers and installers? What techniques have they mentioned that they can leverage for your benefit? Are they proactive in their questions towards you as a prospective customer? Do they offer enhanced efficiency or passive home construction services? How detailed are their informational packages and other documentation?
A thorough and skilled builder will help you maintain focus, make decision-making easier with their experience and guidance and connect you with the right partners and information to succeed.
Especially for first-time homebuilder clients, customers must feel supported and informed. A great builder will unlock their customer's dreams with skill and experience.
Caring Above and Beyond
The intangibles can make all the difference to a great building experience. While support and care can't usually be quantified or displayed on paper, these traits and the thought behind them go a long way towards making a client feel comfortable and establishing a great working relationship. Consider whether a builder is warm and friendly, communicates well, responds to you promptly, and makes a concerted effort to give you their best attention.
A great builder is a builder who cares and goes above and beyond to show it.
This list will help you spot and veto dodgy builders and find one that will serve you well. We've pulled these qualities from our building experience, a process we've honed for decades and are pleased to have helped dozens of amazing clients. If you're considering a new build, we'd love to share the Kotari Difference with you and help you build your dream.