Before You Start Your Custom Home or Remodel Project
Building or remodeling a home is a big investment—and choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in the process. A good builder will help bring your vision to life. A great one will guide you through every step, protect your investment, and deliver results that exceed expectations.
Here are six essential questions to ask your builder—and how Southland Building stands out in each area:
1. Do you carry all of the proper insurance, bonds, and certifications?
This should be a non-negotiable. A professional contractor should be fully licensed, bonded, and insured to protect both you and the project. Unfortunately, not all builders meet this basic requirement, and that can lead to major liabilities down the road.
At Southland Building, we’re fully licensed and insured for every project we take on. We don’t cut corners—especially when it comes to protecting your home and your peace of mind. We’ve been in this business for decades and maintain all necessary credentials to meet county regulations and state standards.
2. Do you prioritize cost, speed, or quality in your work?
This is a great question because it helps you understand what drives your contractor’s decisions. Some builders move fast and cheap – but at the cost of long-term quality. Others may be high-end but inflexible on budget.
At Southland Building, our priority is quality. Always. That doesn’t mean we ignore your budget or timeline – it means we help you make smart decisions that result in a home you’ll love for years to come. Drawing from our experience in high-demand markets like Santa Barbara and Aspen, we know how to deliver beautiful craftsmanship while maximizing value at every stage.
3. Can I view some of your past work?
You should never hire a builder without seeing examples of their completed projects. Photos, portfolios, and even job site visits can tell you more than words ever will.
We’re proud of the homes, kitchen remodels and bathroom remodels we’ve completed, and we love sharing that work with potential clients. Whether it’s a high-end custom kitchen, a beautifully designed barndominium, or a full home renovation, our portfolio speaks for itself. You can also explore more on our Instagram and Facebook pages, where we regularly post photos and progress from recent jobs.
4. How long have you worked with your subcontractors?
A builder is only as strong as their team. Long-standing relationships with reliable subcontractors mean smoother scheduling, better workmanship, and fewer surprises.
At Southland Building, we’ve cultivated lasting relationships with skilled tradespeople we trust. Many of our subcontractors have been with us for years – some for over a decade. That continuity translates into a more coordinated and efficient building process for our clients, with fewer delays and higher quality outcomes. A great example is one of specialty door providers Iron Envy.
5. Does this contract cover everything, or are there things not included I should be aware of?
Transparency is everything. A vague or incomplete contract can lead to costly misunderstandings halfway through the job – like finding out the driveway, landscaping, or appliance installations weren’t included.
We believe in upfront, honest communication. Our contracts are thorough, clear, and tailored to each client’s project. We walk you through every detail so you know exactly what to expect – no surprises, no vague or unknown change orders or line items, and no “we’ll figure it out later” moments.
6. Can I speak to some of your past clients?
Reviews are helpful, but a direct conversation with a past client can be even more revealing. They can share what it’s really like to work with a builder, how responsive they were, how problems were handled, and how satisfied they are with the final result.
We welcome this question. In fact, we encourage it. Many of our clients are happy to share their experiences because they know how much pride we take in our work and our relationships. The process matters just as much as the outcome – and our past clients will tell you, we deliver on both.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right contractor can make or break your project. These six questions will help you find a builder who’s not just capable—but truly aligned with your values and goals.
At Southland Building, we’ve built our reputation on trust, craftsmanship, and communication. Whether you're planning a custom home, a kitchen remodel, or a complete renovation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—and make the process as smooth, rewarding, and enjoyable as possible.