For Consumers
Building, buying, or remodeling? Choose your team carefully.
A new home or a remodel is one of the largest investments you'll make. The quality of the result depends almost entirely on the building professionals involved — so it's worth a few extra questions before you sign anything.
Why Referral Matters
A noteworthy indicator of professionalism is reflected through the eyes of one's peers.
That's the idea behind The Metropolitan Builder: every building professional we feature has been referred by peers in the Houston building industry — not just paid to be listed. Careful consideration in choosing the right team helps ensure the time, emotion, and money you invest in a new home results in the home you actually wanted.
Your satisfaction depends on a builder's experience, skill, commitment to customer service, and professionalism. The Metropolitan Builder Directory is built around that idea — search it to find a referred professional for your project.
Search Our DirectoryBuilding professionals featured in the Directory and the magazine have been referred by peers and vetted editorially before being profiled — it isn't an open pay-to-list directory. See how that works on our Building Professionals page.
Before You Hire A Builder
Questions to ask, straight from the NAHB.
Beyond "how much does it cost?" and "when can we move in?" — here's what the National Association of Home Builders recommends asking.
- Will the builder give you references from recent buyers or occupants?
- Does the builder have an established financing plan?
- Are there options in the floor plan — can a basement or deck be added?
- How much customizing is possible versus standard features?
- Are there additional fees related to the home or development?
- Will there be an HOA — and what do the dues cover?
- Does the builder offer a warranty program?
- Does the price include landscaping, and what if plants don't survive the first year?
- Are there restrictive covenants, and what are the estimated taxes?
Before You Hire A Remodeler
Questions NARI members recommend before you sign.
The National Association of the Remodeling Industry suggests confirming these before any contract is signed.
- How long has the company been in business, and who supervises the project?
- Will the crew be employees or subcontractors?
- Does the company carry current workers' comp and liability insurance? (Verify directly with the insurer — a certificate alone doesn't confirm the policy is still active.)
- How many projects like yours has the company completed in the past year — and can you see references?
- What percentage of the business is repeat or referral work?
- Is the company a member of a national trade association?
- Do team members hold certifications such as CR, CRS, CLC, or CKBR?
Ready To Start
Find a referred building professional in Houston.
The Metropolitan Builder Directory lists the builders, remodelers, and designers who've been vetted and referred within the industry — search by category or read this month's featured stories first.